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Old 11-30-2016, 07:27 PM   #1
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Which collapsible double-sided ladder for 21' Escape?

For those of you with a 21' Escape TT, would you recommend a 5' or 6' ladder?

I want to make sure I can reach the roof, but I also want to store it inside a 5" plastic fence post under the trailer.
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Old 11-30-2016, 07:50 PM   #2
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For those of you with a 21' Escape TT, would you recommend a 5' or 6' ladder?

I want to make sure I can reach the roof, but I also want to store it inside a 5" plastic fence post under the trailer.
Fred, you'll need 6 feet to reach anywhere near the middle of the roof. Our 19 is slightly shorter than the 21 and I need all of that. You'll be about 4 feet off the ground with a 6 footer, and about 3 feet off the ground with a 5 footer, since you're not "supposed" to stand on the top step. Our Telesteps 6 footer will fit in a 6' post, but of course, not a 5.
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Old 11-30-2016, 07:52 PM   #3
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Quote:
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For those of you with a 21' Escape TT, would you recommend a 5' or 6' ladder?

I want to make sure I can reach the roof, but I also want to store it inside a 5" plastic fence post under the trailer.
Fred, I am 6'4" and have long arms. I use a standard 6' step ladder. When standing on the top recommended rung, I can barely reach the centerline of the rooftop. The design of a step ladder, moves the rungs away from the trailer and even though it provides the height, the reach is reduced. If I were any shorter, I would need a taller ladder, or a padded straight ladder to lean steeply against the side of the trailer, and therefore keeping it close for reach.
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Old 11-30-2016, 07:56 PM   #4
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Good point Steve. When I'm washing and waxing, I have to use an extension ladder with pool noodles taped to the rails so I can lean it against the trailer without scratching the gelcoat. No way I can reach the center of the roof comfortably with the Telesteps 6' step ladder.
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Old 11-30-2016, 08:11 PM   #5
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I use a long-handled brush for washing the roof and a long-handled covered mop for applying UV protectant.
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Old 11-30-2016, 08:38 PM   #6
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Just to throw another wrench into the works, 'cause that's a thing I do. For now I plan to keep using the two step stepladder I have for taking along. It worked great for us this last year and worked for everything but getting on the roof. It also works great for things around camp too, giving you that 20" of extra height. I also need it for accessing my toolbox in the bed of my truck. A one step was just not enough, though we carry one of those types that fold flat too.

I have never really had need to go higher while camping, and leave the polishing stuff for at home.

Most campgrounds would either have a ladder to borrow, or even another camper in one of those big units may have one. Boondocking would be the only place it would be tough to get a hold of one.

Who knows, if ever I find that I do need a larger one, I may get one.
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Old 11-30-2016, 09:22 PM   #7
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Sorry Fred, but I don't recall what you use for a tow vehicle. If it is a pickup truck, then getting the truck right beside the trailer and putting your ladder in the truck bed can give you a starting platform almost three feet off the ground. It might be something to consider... if you tow with a pickup.

Some people would even stand on the edge of the pickup's box side... not that I'm suggesting that.
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Old 11-30-2016, 09:37 PM   #8
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Good point about the smallish ladder Jim. I've never found a need to access the center of the roof when camping. Having said that, it's nice to know I have a portable ladder that's tall enough if I need to - - just not for waxing.....
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Old 11-30-2016, 09:40 PM   #9
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There's always the theory that in every campground there's likely a well-equipped and helpful camper with a long ladder which could be borrowed in case of emergency. Like Robert, for instance.
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Old 11-30-2016, 09:45 PM   #10
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Thanks for everyone's input. Since we full time in our rig, I would need to carry some kind of ladder when I clean. Plus, I hate to borrow tools. What about this one?
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Old 11-30-2016, 09:53 PM   #11
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That's one sweet ladder. Most home inspectors in this area use that type of ladder. Very light, easy to carry and store, only one drawback. A little Pricey.
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Old 11-30-2016, 10:16 PM   #12
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Fred, That should work well! I'm sure you'll pad any part that touches the trailer. Good Luck!
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Old 11-30-2016, 10:21 PM   #13
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Fred, That should work well! I'm sure you'll pad any part that touches the trailer. Good Luck!
Stevie...you better believe there will be padding on that puppy!!!
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Old 11-30-2016, 10:21 PM   #14
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Thanks for everyone's input. Since we full time in our rig, I would need to carry some kind of ladder when I clean. Plus, I hate to borrow tools. What about this one?
I have a larger version of that ladder I carry in my work trailer. The size is great for an extension ladder, and it works good. Mine is quite heavy. I would suggest seeing one in person before buying. Though they extend nice, a wee bit of a pain to retract, but that is a small price for the convenience.
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Old 11-30-2016, 10:31 PM   #15
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Stevie...you better believe there will be padding on that puppy!!!
You're welcome, Freddie Baby!
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Old 11-30-2016, 10:59 PM   #16
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I have a larger version of that ladder I carry in my work trailer. The size is great for an extension ladder, and it works good. Mine is quite heavy. I would suggest seeing one in person before buying. Though they extend nice, a wee bit of a pain to retract, but that is a small price for the convenience.
Hi Jim,

Gonna try and check them out at Lowes or Home Depot tomorrow.
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Old 12-01-2016, 12:55 AM   #17
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we have one of those for our townhouse--store it under our bed and use it to get into the attic---not light but certainly decent quality...
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Old 12-01-2016, 07:33 AM   #18
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What size extension ladder are you thinking about ? The 8' ladder might be a little short and just crest at the roof line. The 10' might be a better choice with the ladder extending above the roof line, and it will give you a hand hold for safety.
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Old 12-01-2016, 11:44 AM   #19
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What size extension ladder are you thinking about ? The 8' ladder might be a little short and just crest at the roof line. The 10' might be a better choice with the ladder extending above the roof line, and it will give you a hand hold for safety.
Hi Craig,

I am considering this model that extends to 10.5' and collapses to about 2.5'. Hope it works out.
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Old 12-01-2016, 12:17 PM   #20
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What are you guys needing to get onto the roof for? What ever it is, couldn't it wait 'till you got home, so you don't need an expensive, collapsible ladder?
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