How to safely clean your caravan roof without damaging it (or you!)

Cleaning the roof might not be the most glamorous part of owning and maintaining a caravan, but it’s crucial for keeping it in good shape in the long run. That being said, it’s also important to do it in the right way so that you don’t risk a trip to A&E - so standing on it is probably not the way to go!

Let’s take a look at how to keep your roof clean - without the need to stand on it or do yourself a mischief...

First things first – we must say that not all caravan roofs are designed to hold your weight. Some are sturdy enough, while others might flex, crack, or even give way if you’re too ambitious. All in all, it’s best to stay off the roof when cleaning it. Even if it’s supposedly ‘walkable,’ standing up there can still be risky if the roof is wet or covered in grime and algae. Caravan roofs obviously have awkward curves, vents and things that stick out such as skylights that are just waiting to trip you up. And, of course, you always need to be aware of where the edge is – one misstep can turn an afternoon chore into a full-on emergency!

Here’s three main reasons to avoid standing on your caravan’s roof...

1. Caravan roofs are often curved, slippery when wet, and they’re not designed for foot traffic. One little slip could lead to a nasty fall, resulting in broken bones - or worse. At the end of the day, no bit of stubborn dirt is worth a broken leg or a dented ego.

2. There might be some exceptions but caravan roofs aren’t typically built to support the concentrated weight of a person. Stepping in the wrong spot can crack the roof, weaken the joints, or even cause the ceiling to sag over time.

3. Even a small crack or a weakened seal caused by standing on the roof could let moisture in, which could lead to damp setting in, then mould, and then costly repairs down the line.

So what's a safer alternative to standing on the roof? 

Instead of being on the roof itself for cleaning, you could consider using a platform or a ladder instead.

A sturdy work platform or a tall, secure ladder with a wide base will let you reach the roof without putting your weight directly on it. Just make sure it’s set up on a bit of flat, stable ground. You should be able to get the height you need, whilst allowing you to reach without leaning too far if you clean in small sections and then keep moving along. You can always have another person foot the ladder if you’re feeling wobbly, too.

So, let’s get on to the actual cleaning now…

In terms of the equipment, it’s a good idea to invest in a long-handled, soft-bristle brush or mop to scrub away the dirt - you could even get one that can be attached to a hosepipe for a constant flow of water. Try to avoid using a pressure washer - it can damage the roof and it’s too easy to lose control or blast a vent seal loose. Opting for a brush or mop lets you scrub without putting too much weight on any one part of the roof. 

Use a mild, non-abrasive caravan cleaner that won’t damage the seals or protective coatings, and a microfibre cloth for applying the cleaning product by hand if that suits your needs.

Before you start, either lower or raise the front of the caravan to give it a slight slope, as this will help the dirty water and debris to flow off the roof more easily. Rinse off any loose debris first, then clean the roof by scrubbing it in small sections.This keeps things manageable and reduces the chances of you slipping on a soapy patch if you are having to lean sideways. Rinse as you go, and take your time - rushing is a recipe for disaster! Use a soft-bristle smaller brush on any solar panels, and while you are up there, you might like to clean the awning rail too. If you are only cleaning the roof, do have a quick check of the sides of the caravan for any dirt or streaks that have emerged in the process!

To finish, you could towel dry the roof if you can safely reach, or leave it to air dry on a sunny day. Drying by hand will hopefully help prevent streaks and discourage any further mould growth. You can also add some wax polish or sealant to make the job (hopefully) a bit easier next time!

The more often you check and clean your roof, the easier it’ll get each time, as regularly clearing away leaves, bird droppings and debris will prevent grime from building up in the first place. 

Happy roof cleaning!