Ladders - why do some TT models have them?

Bill & Kate wrote:
I am 270 pounds, and not nearly as nimble as I used to be. I am much more comfortable getting on and off the roof using a conventional ladder that extends up above the edge of the roof rather than crawling off the end of those permanently mounted ladders. I carry one of these ....

Telescoping Ladder

My TT has no ladder. Called manufacturer to see if/how to add one....they said there was no framing structure in the back wall to support a ladder. My TT has the big rear window So I bought the same telescoping ladder and it works well. When collapsed it has a small footprint and fits in the back of my TV easily.

Our trailer has one and the manual says its rated for 300 lbs. About 260 and have used it a few times. It doesn't feel super sturdy but in a pinch its handy. I'll probably get a collapsing ladder to keep in the trailer for most uses. I was glad to have it last trip when we had a tree overhanging our trailer that dropped lots of junk on our slide roof. I swept it off before pulling it in when we left. Without the ladder on the back I would have had a mess inside the trailer.

I was going to add one on my current TT. I called the manufacturer to get the layout of the rear wall so I could locate the supports. The factory rep I spoke with suggested I not add a ladder, and they did not put them on because it is not a walkable roof.
Given that, I would say 1) it is a add on option 2) because of roof design

I know most newer keystone roofs are "walkable" and the basic construction of many TT roofs are the same within that brand. Since mine did not have the ladder option, but is walkable. I bought a telescoping, alumunum ladder (very light) and I am up there almost every month to install (un-install) my cover. I am not a big fella a 170lbs, but I know what I am stepping on and I can not cause any damage for what I am doing.

Just being careful of the rubber as that is what can cause leaks, but walking on 3/8" plywood, which most are, is fine for basic maintenance

Bill & Kate wrote:
I am 270 pounds, and not nearly as nimble as I used to be. I am much more comfortable getting on and off the roof using a conventional ladder that extends up above the edge of the roof rather than crawling off the end of those permanently mounted ladders. I carry one of these ....

Telescoping Ladder

As a weekend camper I seen no reason to buy a camper with a permanent ladder. I use a regular ladder to get up there twice a year and look at things. Personally, I think it's just another way to jack up the price and sell you something you don't really need. But, that is just my opinion, others will vary.

LastOfTheBohicans wrote:
The source of my comment was from my old Keystone Zeppelin. I inquired to Keystone about getting a ladder for it and I was told that no ladder was included because the roof was not walkable.

How can a roof not be walkable? How else would you (or the dealer) do maintenance on the stuff up there?

I understand they aren't all capable of holding a NASCAR party up there, but they have to at least be walkable for service.

I am 270 pounds, and not nearly as nimble as I used to be. I am much more comfortable getting on and off the roof using a conventional ladder that extends up above the edge of the roof rather than crawling off the end of those permanently mounted ladders. I carry one of these ....

Telescoping Ladder

I like having it so I can easily do inspections.
What I've never understood is why they install that little 6" tall railing around the back of the trailer. Are they afraid a squirrel's going to be lounging about up there and fall off?

Our tt has a walkable roof. The ladder we added was an option due to the large rear window. It will support up to 250 lbs. I go up there at the end of every trip to check things - it is part of our 'break camp' ritual. Our previous tt did not (have a walkable roof or a ladder) and it was one of our must haves in our new tt.

I'll be discussing this at the PDI tomorrow!