How to Clean a Caravan Roof Using a Ladder

March 27, 2025 | Nate Cord

Your caravan roof is dirtier than you think. And it’s not just impacting how it looks. Over time, dirt, bird droppings, tree sap, moss and other debris can degrade paintwork and seals, leading to weather damage, mould, and wear. The rain and sun also help feed the accumulation, which creates more residue at a faster pace.

Despite this, cleaning the caravan roof is often forgotten or neglected. The good news is that it’s easier than you think! When done right, your caravan roof will look good as new in no time.
In this guide, our experts outline how to access and clean your caravan roof using a ladder and share their tips on staying safe.

1. Plan in Advance

Cleaning a caravan with a ladder has some risks, but none that can’t be minimised. Here’s what you need to prepare before you clean your caravan.

a. Park on a Stable Surface

Park on a flat, solid surface like a driveway or a leveled patch of ground.

Ensure that the handbrake is engaged, and use wheel chocks on both sides to eliminate the risk of a rolling caravan.

If your caravan has stabiliser legs, deploy them to reduce sway and prevent the caravan from toppling over.

b. Weather

Avoid working in wet, icy, or windy conditions as your ladder and caravan will be much less stable, increasing your chances of a fall or accident.

c. Inspect Ladder

If you already have a ladder, inspect it. Check for cracked or broken rails and loose or wobbly rungs, and ensure the locking mechanisms are secure. If you spot any issues, replace or repair the ladder first.

If you don’t have a ladder or don’t know if yours is suited for the job, keep reading to find out what kind of ladder is best for a caravan roof.

d. Wear PPE

Wear non-slip shoes with sturdy soles (avoid sandals or open-toed footwear) and work gloves for better control when using the ladder and handling tools.

e. Avoid Cleaning Alone

Ask someone to be your spotter. In other words, someone who can monitor your work, pass tools, or call for help in the case of an accident.

2. Use a Made-for-Caravans Ladder

Not all ladders are made to clean caravans. Caravans present unique challenges, including curved roofs, tall side panels, awkward angles around roof vents, skylights and awning rails, and delicate surfaces, which means a standard household ladder might not cut it.

Instead, use a made-for-caravans ladder. Designed for caravans and motorhomes, a caravan ladder provides a stable platform that protects the awning rail from damage otherwise caused by traditional ladders.

 

It also has outrigger bars that easily adjust with sliding clamp-plates that pivot down to lock against ladder stiles and a suction pad and webbing strap to secure the base section.

 

If you can’t get your hands on a caravan-specific ladder, an extension ladder with a stabiliser bar or standoff — which keeps the ladder from touching the caravan’s body and provides a secure grip on curved surfaces— could do the trick. Just follow the best practices for using a ladder, which we will outline below.

A multi-position or combination ladder could also help. Configured as an A-frame, extension or stairwell ladder, their adjustable frame makes them ideal for cleaning around caravan awnings or angled roofs.

Remember to check the ladder’s classification and maximum load rating, which should account for your weight plus tools, buckets, and cleaning supplies.

Don’t forget to thoroughly inspect your ladder before and between uses!

3. Safely Use The Ladder:

Even a caravan ladder is dangerous if improperly positioned. Make sure that, for every 4 feet of ladder height, the base is 1 foot away from the caravan. For example, if the ladder touches the caravan 8 feet up, the base should be 2 feet out.

You will also need to place the ladder on a non-slip surface. If working on grass, use a safety base to prevent sinking.

Finally, use a ladder standoff or stabilizer to prevent direct contact with the caravan. These accessories distribute weight and protect the caravan from scratches or dents.

4. Follow Working at Height Guidelines

The UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE) mandates that, before working at height, you must work through these simple steps.

Avoid work at height where it is reasonably practicable to do so;
where work at height cannot be avoided, prevent falls using either an existing place of work that is already safe or the right type of equipment;
minimise the distance and consequences of a fall, by using the right type of equipment where the risk cannot be eliminated.

To ensure compliance with these regulations, the HSE recommends the following measures.

Do as much work as possible from the ground (e.g., use telescopic tools for cleaning);
ensure workers can get safely to and from where they work at height;
ensure equipment is suitable, stable and strong enough for the job, maintained
and checked on a regular basis;
make sure you don’t overload or overreach when working at height;
take precautions when working on or near fragile surfaces;
provide protection from falling objects;
consider your emergency evacuation and rescue procedures.

Employers and those in control of any work-at-height activity must make sure that the work
is properly planned, supervised and carried out by competent people. This includes
using the right type of equipment for working at height.

5. Cleaning the Caravan

We recommend that you start with the roof to avoid dripping dirty water onto the cleaned lower panels. Use a soft-bristled brush or microfiber mitt to lift dirt without scratching. For stubborn grime, apply a dedicated caravan shampoo.

And don’t forget the seams! Caravan roofs have vents, skylights, and seams that trap debris. Use a soft toothbrush or detailing brush to clean these areas, and rinse thoroughly to prevent moisture buildup.

Finally, don’t use a pressure washer, as it can cause damage to seals and cables. One caravan owner recommends using an extendable “floor” mop to clean harder-to-reach parts of the roof while avoiding overreaching and potentially toppling the ladder.
Conclusion

Your caravan’s roof might be out of sight, but it shouldn’t be out of mind! Avoid unstable surfaces, improper equipment, or taking risks, and invest in a caravan-specific ladder (or a reliable alternative) to clean.

If you require additional information or have a question for our team on ladders, don’t hesitate to get in contact using this form or via phone at 01639 849847.

Are you looking for a reliable conservatory ladder or other premium access equipment? At Ladders4Sale, we offer a range of ladders, platforms, steps, towers, and accessories for all trade and do-it-yourself jobs at unbeatable low prices. Better yet, all of our products come with lifetime support—after your initial purchase, we continue to provide ongoing support and assistance for free. In addition, all orders come with free shipping to mainland UK.