A lot of people wonder about the RV roof and whether it’s safe to walk up there. Ideally, this is controlled by the RV roof weight limits, which vary according to many factors.
In today’s article, we’ll take a closer look at the weight limits of RV roofs, how to find out yours, and the factors that can affect the weight limit. Let’s dive in!
How Much Weight Can a Typical RV Roof Hold?
Although each roof will have its own weight limit, the vast majority of RVs on the market will have a typical weight limit that ranges from 200 to 300 lbs.
As you can see, the range is quite vast and will typically depend on a variety of specifications. It’s important to find the exact weight limit rating of your RV roof before deciding to go up there.
Reasons to Go Up the RV Roof
There are a variety of reasons why someone would want to go up on their RV’s roof. Perhaps one of the most common reasons to go up there is maintenance.
Typically speaking, you need to clean the roof of an RV at least once every 6 months. This isn’t only to keep your roof clean but also to maintain its condition and integrity.
Some people also go up the roof to install some specific items, such as satellite dishes or solar panels.
Lastly, there are many RV owners who like to take a chair and a cooler up there simply to enjoy the view.
However, we recommend that you avoid the temptation of going on the roof for such a reason because it’ll weaken the roof’s structure with time.
How to Find Out the Weight Limit of the RV Roof
There are various methods to find out the exact weight limit of your RV roof. Here’s a quick look at each one of them:
1. Find the Weight Limit Sticker
In some types of RVs, there’s a sticker that specifies multiple aspects of the RV, including the maximum weight limit of the roof. This one is typically found at the back of the RV towards the top.
2. Check the Top of the Ladder
It makes sense that if your RV has a ladder to go up to the roof, this means that it can support the weight of an average adult being there.
If you can’t find a weight limit rating sticker at the back of your RV, climb up the ladder and check the top of the ladder.
Usually, the maximum weight limit of the roof is either etched or embossed on the top ladder rung.
3. Look for the Specifications on the Manual
Check your owner’s manual, especially in the specifications or the roof section. Usually, there’s a box that specifies weight limits in various parts of the RV.
You can also download the manual online from your manufacturer’s website and use the search function and check for “roof weight limit”.
4. Contact the Manufacturer’s Customer Support
If none of these solutions work and you want to be 100% sure that it’s safe to go up there, contact your manufacturer’s customer support.
In addition to hotlines stated in your manual, you can click the “contact us” button on their website.
Factors That Impacts the Weight Limit of an RV Roof
The weight limit of an RV roof usually depends on a combination of factors and not just one. These factors include:
The Condition and Age of the RV Roof
If you have a very old RV with a worn-out roof, you shouldn’t rely on the weight limit anymore. The age and negligence will take a toll on the roof’s integrity, so it may not be able to support the weight.
Items Installed on the Roof
The weight limit includes everything on the roof. If the label states that the maximum weight is 250 lbs and you have a 30 lbs satellite installed up there, the new weight limit is now 220 lbs.
Type of the RV Roof
Not All Roofs are Created Equal. For instance, old RV roofs are made of aluminum which is quite rare today and adds unnecessary weight.
Rubber roofs, whether EPDM or TPO, have a relatively lower weight limit when compared to sturdy fiberglass roofs.
The RV Brand and Model
Different brands and even models within the same brand may differ in terms of the weight limit they can support.
Premium models usually have a fortified roof that supports heavier weights while basic models and budget-friendly options use limited
Similarly, large RVs will use a sturdier wall to support the structure of the trailer or the motorhome while smaller ones aren’t built with enough support to handle the extra weight.
Things to Keep in Mind While Accessing the RV Roof
Now that you know more about the weight limits of an RV roof, here are some of the major tips you should keep in considerations for your safety while on the roof:
- Calculate the Weight of All Tools Going with You: If you’re going up to clean, chances are you’re taking some items and tools with you. Make sure to weigh them all out because these numbers can easily add up.
- Not All Spots Are Equally Fortified: For instance, the area above vents is typically less fortified because the support plywood beams don’t run beneath them. Always tread carefully and even use a flat piece of plywood to even distribute your weight across the roof.
- Beware of Slippery Surfaces: If you’re going up to wipe the water after rain, keep in mind that the roof might be slippery. In addition to falling through the roof, this can lead to serious accidents.
- Avoid Far Edges and Deep Centers: Far edges are fortified but carry a high risk of tipping over the roof and deep centers are usually the least supported areas in a roof.
Final Thoughts
This wraps it up for today’s guide about RV roof weight limits. As you can see, the roof will typically hold up to 300 lbs depending on condition, materials, and construction.
Always keep in mind that each roof is different, which is why you need to find out your own RV’s roof weight limit before going up there.