13 best exterior rv ladders

Exterior RV ladders are an essential accessory for many recreational vehicles (RVs) and motorhomes. They serve multiple purposes, primarily providing easy access to the roof of the RV, which is necessary for maintenance, cleaning, and inspection. Here are some key points about exterior RV ladders:

  1. Material: Most exterior RV ladders are constructed from lightweight and durable materials like aluminum or steel. These materials are chosen for their strength and ability to withstand exposure to the elements.

  2. Installation: These ladders are typically installed on the exterior of the RV. They can be attached to the rear of the RV or the side, depending on the design and layout of the vehicle. Proper installation is crucial for safety and stability.

  3. Design: Exterior RV ladders come in various designs, with some folding up against the RV when not in use.This design saves space and reduces wind resistance when driving. Other ladders are telescoping, allowing them to extend to different heights.

  4. Purpose: The primary purpose of an exterior RV ladder is to provide access to the roof. RV owners use them for tasks like cleaning solar panels, checking roof seals, and clearing debris. They are also handy for attaching or removing accessories like roof racks or awnings.

  5. Safety: Safety is a paramount concern when using exterior RV ladders. Users should follow all manufacturer instructions for installation and use. Regular inspections of the ladder for signs of wear or damage are also important.

  6. Weight Capacity: Exterior RV ladders have weight limits specified by the manufacturer. It's crucial to adhere to these limits to prevent accidents and ladder damage. Avoid carrying heavy objects while climbing the ladder.

  7. Maintenance: Like any other RV accessory, exterior ladders require maintenance. This includes cleaning, lubricating moving parts, and inspecting for rust or corrosion. Regular maintenance ensures the ladder remains safe and functional.

  8. Accessories: Some RV owners may choose to add accessories to their exterior ladders, such as hooks or hangers for carrying items like chairs, bikes, or fishing gear. These accessories can enhance the ladder's utility.

  9. Replacement: If an exterior RV ladder becomes damaged or worn out, it's important to replace it promptly to maintain the safety and convenience of the RV. Replacement ladders should be chosen based on the RV's size and weight requirements.

  10. Compliance: RV owners should be aware of any regulations or restrictions regarding the use of exterior ladders on their specific RV model. Some RVs may have limitations on ladder installation or use.

In summary, exterior RV ladders are essential accessories for RV owners, providing safe and convenient access to the roof of the vehicle for various maintenance tasks and accessory installations. Proper installation, maintenance, and adherence to safety guidelines are critical for their effective and safe use.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best exterior rv ladders on the market
  

Stromberg Carlson 139.21 LA-401 Universal Exterior RV Ladder

Stromberg Carlson

Based on 513 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Stromberg Carlson LA-401 Universal Exterior RV Ladder. Our Universal RV Ladder can fit on the rear of any RV – straight or contoured. Our rugged construction keeps you safe when going up to do maintenance on the roof or just hanging your chairs on the ladder as you travel to the next camp site.

  • 1″ diameter ladder tubing.
  • All screws connecting the ladder to the RV must be fastened to the RV’s sub frame or backing
  • Color: Silver
  • Quick and easy installation
  • To maintain the recommended 12″ spacing between treads, ladder must be trimmed to 92.5″ as shown in the Ladder Dimensions image.

User questions & answers

Question: what is the stand off of the ladder
Answer: No its for wood!!
Question: I have a four winds slide in camper that was made on 8/91 s/nstc014w1042 r.v 88842 will this ladder work for it thank you
Answer: One Quart
Question: This is a 1995 coachman catalina. Would this work on this camper
Answer: Sure. Cost you a small fortune
Question: anyone know the weight capacity of this ladder
Answer: Gloss 3. 4 coats sanding in between

Stromberg Carlson LA-401B Universal Exterior RV Ladder

Stromberg Carlson

Based on 12 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Universal RV Ladder can fit on the rear of any RV - straight or contoured. Stromberg Carlson rugged construction keeps you safe when going up to do maintenance on the roof or just hanging your chairs on the ladder as you travel to the next camp site. It is designed to be cut to length, fitting perfectly on the back of your RV. Please refer to the installation and measurement guide to properly install your ladder. Comes with four stand offs and mounting hardware. 1" diameter ladder tubing.

  • Can fit the rear of any RV, straight or contoured
  • Rugged construction for safety
  • Designed to be cut to length to fit your RV perfectly
  • Comes with 4 stand offs and mounting hardware
  • Stromberg Carlson LA-401B Universal Exterior RV Ladder, Silver

User questions & answers

Question: What size drillbit did anyone who installed this ladder use on the trailer for pilot holes? The directions dont specify
Answer: it's about 6 or 7 inches off the back of the truck
Question: Dimensions listed to not make any sense. 9.99 x 9.99 x 9.99. Are they telling me this ladder is bacilly 10 inches long by 10 inches wide
Answer: Not familiar with what you mean by slide-in. This ladder will work with any stationary rear wall. It is made to adjust to FLAT or ANGLED wall. Very easy to modify to your appropriate height and angle. I used a small pipe cutter to keep cutts smooth and small drill bit to make bolt holes. I have a 25' Passport and love this ladder.
Question: Is this a metal ladder
Answer: It’s a pretty versatile ladder. I’m guessing that it will. I used it for a 1995 Tioga Montara. BTW, I used some butch plates on the roof to give it a stronger interface.
Question: what is the overall length
Answer: 250 lbs., but make sure you get it into the blocking of your RV

Stromberg Carlson 0139.8525 8525-BK Universal Exterior RV Ladder Hinged Connector Swivel Casting

Stromberg Carlson

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Stromberg Carlson Products, Inc. is a third generation company that has served the RV aftermarket for over 54 years. Located in Traverse City, MI, but products are available nationwide at RV dealers near you.

  • Universal Exterior RV Ladder Hinged Connector
  • Fits both LA-401 and LA 401BA models
  • Hinged connector only
  • Fit type: Universal Fit

Stromberg Carlson 8540-NTB Universal Exterior RV Ladder Drilled-Out Aluminum Tread, End Caps and Screws, Silver

Stromberg Carlson

Based on 31 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Stromberg Carlson Products, Inc. is a third generation company that has served the RV aftermarket for over 54 years. Located in Traverse City, MI, but products are available nationwide at RV dealers near you.

  • Universal Exterior RV Ladder Tread, End Caps and Screws
  • Fits both LA-401 and LA 401BA models
  • Treads: Drilled-out aluminum
  • Includes: Tread, End Caps and Screws

User questions & answers

Question: what are the inside dimentions of the rung, where it fits over the ladder frame
Answer: Yes it is all metal.
Question: How many in package
Answer: 8 feet from where it attaches at top to where it attaches at bottom.

Stromberg Carlson 8531-B Universal Exterior RV Ladder Stand-Off Assembly with Round Base - Black, 12"

Stromberg Carlson

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Stromberg Carlson Products, Inc. is a third generation company that has served the RV aftermarket for over 54 years. Located in Traverse City, MI, but products are available nationwide at RV dealers near you.

  • Universal Exterior RV Ladder Stand-Off Assembly
  • Fits both LA-401 and LA 401BA models
  • Style: 12" round base
  • Color: Black
  • Stand-off assembly only

User questions & answers

Question: Will this fit my 2015 Thor Challenger
Answer: I only purchased a single step and that was how many I received in the package.
Question: does it come with the screw for the ladder
Answer: There is not a good way to use screws and know that they will not pull out. You need to drill with a 3/8 drill bit and use a rivet gun to secure it.
Question: Is the bolt that goes through the ladder included
Answer: We sent ours back and they never refunded our money. They said the ladder was damaged. We opened the box but never attached it? I would look for something from another vender.

Stromberg Carlson 8535-B Universal Exterior RV Ladder Stand-Off Assembly with Rectangular Base - Black, 5"

Stromberg Carlson

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Stromberg Carlson Products, Inc. is a third generation company that has served the RV aftermarket for over 54 years. Located in Traverse City, MI, but products are available nationwide at RV dealers near you.

  • Universal Exterior RV Ladder Stand-Off Assembly
  • Fits both LA-401 and LA 401BA models
  • Style: 5" rectangular base
  • Color: Black
  • Stand-off assembly only

Stromberg Carlson FST-9975 Standoff Nut for Exterior Ladder

Stromberg Carlson

Based on 45 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Stromberg Carlson FST-9975 Standoff Nut for Exterior Ladder. Standoff Nut only used in top of bunk ladders and stand offs of exterior ladder. Connector nut for inside ladders (1″ OD tubing) & stand off assemblies.

  • The following is a list of replacement or repair LA-401 & LA-401BA RV ladder parts
  • Refer to manufacturer recommendations to ensure a proper fit
  • Constructed of quality, durable materials
  • Quick and easy installation

User questions & answers

Question: How many in the package
Answer: it supposed but mine was incomplete
Question: Is this stainless steel? Fit 7/8th inch inside diam ladder stand off
Answer: From inside to inside of the ladder rails it is 10 1/8"

Stromberg Carlson 8521-BK Universal Exterior RV Ladder Roof Mounting Bracket

Stromberg Carlson

Product description

Stromberg Carlson Products, Inc. is a third generation company that has served the RV aftermarket for over 54 years. Located in Traverse City, MI, but products are available nationwide at RV dealers near you.

  • Universal Exterior RV Ladder Roof Mounting Bracket
  • Fits both LA-401 and LA 401BA models
  • Mounting bracket only

RV Steps 24" Step in Black | RV Stairs | RV Exterior Steps | Camper Steps (Single)

Based on 15 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Details:

Weight: 17 pounds

24" wide tread

300-pound capacity

Manual foldaway step

Material: Steel

Powder-coated

Color: black

Extremely sturdy

Can be bolted or welded to the frame

Fasteners not included

Non-skid tread pattern

Made in America

Entry step

Rounded edge

Rust-resistant

Weather-resistant

Durable color and material

Easy to use and install

  • These steps are manual foldaway steps, which means there are no electrical components to work with or worry about. When you install them, you won't have to worry about connecting any wires or circuitry and when you open them up at the campground, you won't have to worry about whether the motor will work or not.
  • Simply pull out the step to set it up and push it back in when you leave. Simple and easy, the frame can be welded or bolted on, however, many people choose to bolt it on. The steps have a non-skid surface as well as rounded edges to help make the climb safe and comfortable
  • With the black powder-coated finish, you won't have to worry about the paint losing its luster. Unlike traditional liquid painting, powder-coating lasts much longer and can hold up to more elements, giving you an attractive step even after many years. Made in America, these steps are durable, attractive, and easy to use.

User questions & answers

Question: What is the riser height on this unit
Answer: Yes

RecPro RV Steps 24" Single Step Low Profile in Black | RV Stairs | RV Exterior Steps | Camper Steps FP-1200

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Details:

Dimensions: 28 1/2"W x 4 1/2"H x 15 1/2"D

Single-step

Low-profile

2.75" drop total

Weight: 17 pounds

24" wide tread

300-pound capacity

Manual foldaway step

Material: steel

Powder-coated

Color: black

Extremely sturdy

Can be bolted or welded to the frame

Fasteners not included

Non-skid tread pattern

Made in America

Entry step

Rounded edge

Rust-resistant

Weather-resistant

Durable color and material

Easy to use and install

  • These single step RV stairs measure 28 1/2" wide by 4 1/2" high by 15 1/2" deep. They are also low-profile, which means they have a smaller drop (2 3/4" drop) and are simpler to operate than other types of steps. The weight of these stairs is 17 pounds, however, the weight capacity is around 300 pounds.
  • The treads are 24" wide and have a non-skid pattern on them to ensure a safe climb into and out of your RV. Also, these stairs are foldaway stairs. This means that there are no electronics or motors or tricky buttons to fiddle with.
  • The steps are made of powder coated steel, which means that the material is super durable and so is the color. Black in color, it looks great on any RV. It is also extremely sturdy and rust-resistant

Ohuhu 12.5 FT Aluminum Telescoping Ladder, One-Button Retraction Extension Ladder, Collapsible Ladder with Spring Loaded Locking Mechanism for Roof, 330 Pound Capacity

Ohuhu

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price
  • ✅ One Button Retraction: Convenience is key! That’s why we’ve designed this ladder with easy one button retraction. Simply press down on the thumb buttons and the ladder will slide down effortlessly.
  • ✅ Premium Aluminum Alloy: The Ohuhu Telescopic Extension Ladder is crafted from high-quality aluminum alloy. It’s lightweight and easy to carry without sacrificing strength.
  • ✅ Rock-Solid Stability: This ladder is as sturdy as they come, with a weight capacity of up to 330lbs! Non-slip end caps hold the base firmly in place, while extra-wide steps ensure safe climbing. We’ve also made sure that this ladder is compliant with EN131 and SGS European safety standards to give you some peace of mind.
  • ✅ Safe to Use: No more pinched fingers! The telescoping ladder’s high quality construction ensures that each section expands and retracts safely. Intelligent locking pins hold the sections in place and prevent sliding, and the ladder will retract smoothly and slowly.
  • ✅ Extreme Versatility: This telescopic ladder is the homeowner’s best friend. Thanks to its maximum height of 12.5 ft (3.8m) , the Ohuhu Telescope Extension Ladder is perfect for all of your specific needs. Use it to help paint the walls, change the light bulbs, clean the windows, and everything in between.

User questions & answers

Question: How much time/effort does it take to extend and how much to collapse this ladder
Answer: Yes it automatically switches from heat to a/c if programmed to do so
Question: Is this really durable to use to climb on the roof
Answer: Yes it does. It has four modes: Auto, Cool, Heat, Em Heat.
Question: Can i safely extend the top couple of rungs and then 3 or 4 of the bottom rungs? or do i have to extend either all top or all bottom? thanks
Answer: AA batteries are required to operate the thermostat. The 'C' wire can be connected but the thermostat will not function without the batteries.
Question: How much noise does the ladder make when climbing it? And extending and restracting as well
Answer: The AA batteries are required. The thermostat cannot use a 'C' wire for power. There are 2 warnings for battery power, but instructions say to replace batteries yearly even without seeing warning. If changed quickly, you don't lose anything, but they say you don't lose programming-only date and time if slow like me!

Product features

Ohuhu 12.5 FT Aluminum Telescoping Ladder, ANSI Certified & EN131 Certified Extension Ladder with Spring Loaded Locking Mechanism, 330 Pound Capacity

Durability, Versatility, and Portability

Tired of lugging around your bulky, cumbersome ladder? Make your life a little easier with the Ohuhu Telescopic Extension Ladder. Crafted from premium aluminum alloy, this ladder is lightweight and easy to carry. It’s just as strong as it is portable— the rungs can support up to 330 lbs. It’s the perfect tool to help you paint walls, change light bulbs, clean windows, clean the gutters, repair the roof, and so much more.

Easy Extension and Retraction

Whether you need a small boost or some serious height, the Ohuhu Telescopic Extension Ladder will get the job done. The high-quality extension mechanism allows you to adjust the height quickly and effortlessly (up to 12.5 ft), and locking pins hold it securely in place. Done for the day? Press the two thumb buttons and the ladder will retract smoothly.

Bonus Carrying Strap for Compact Storage

Short on space? We’ve got it covered. Use the bonus heavy-duty carrying strap to make sure the ladder stays closed in compact areas in the shed, garage, or even the trunk of the car.

Note:

  • Do not put your fingers on or between the rungs while the ladder is retracting.
  • Use the side grip handle to lift the ladder.
  • NEVER CLIMB OR STAND ON THE TOP THREE RUNGS OR YOU MAY LOSE YOUR BALANCE

2 Way to Retract Ladder

Press the two thumb buttons simultaneously to retract the whole ladder at one time.

Red Buckle

Press the two red buckle under each rung to retract upper rung at each time.

Same way to adjust the ladder from a higher height to a lower height.

Strengthening Footboard
Portable Grip Handle
Non-Slip End Cap

LUISLADDERS Aluminum Telescoping Telescopic Extension Ladder 330 Pound Capacity (12.5 Feet)

LUISLADDERS

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • MADE TO LAST: Made from corrosion-resistant quality aluminum alloy, it has the sturdy frame and slip-resistant rungs for 330 lbs weight capacity and is resistant to corrosion and rust. It's qualified with the EN131 certificate for safe materials, environmentally-friendly and high performance.
  • SAFE AND RELIABLE: double couplings on every rung guarantee your hands in right position to avoid pinching; bottom caps on the feet can avoid tipping over. The height can be adjusted to your needs.
  • PORTABLE AND CONVENIENT: lightweight and compact size, easy to transport and store; a heavy duty securing strap secures the ladder firmly and with the grip handle, you can easy to carry the ladder with one hand. Great for Home/Building maintenance, Washing window, Exterior/Interior Decorating, Painting etc.
  • EXTENSION AND RETRACTION DESIGN: with inward slide latches, you can adjusts rung by rung in one-foot increments to reach and retract any desired height without effort; protection spacers avoid bumping and friction during retraction
  • Durable, and rustproof it's well worth the money. Scientific design on extension and lock mechanism with thumb buttons to click smoothly and effortlessly. 4-way combination ladder system. Heavy duty strap to fasten up for better storage.

User questions & answers

Question: One of my end caps fell and was lost. Are there replacements for these
Answer: 330lb
Question: Can these be used with ladder hooks for roof work or do they only support compression
Answer: IT's 31.5".It's very convenient to store and carry.
Question: Is this ladder osha approved
Answer: I don’t think you can to a shorter ladder height without dropping it the full way. The ladder is released with two sliding buttons on the bottom rung. Once released the levels collapse. To readjust the ladder to a lower height it’s quite easy to collapse the ladder the raise to that new height.
Question: How do I connect the feet? There is a little bar inside the slot where the bar containing the feet is suppose to fit, blocking the installation
Answer: No, if you start extending the bottom rung first. It you extend the top rung first, then yes you will have to extend the entire latter before you use it. Read / follow the instructions provided. This is a great ladder.

Stromberg Carlson LA148 Universal Outdoor Ladder for RV

Stromberg Carlson

Based on 47 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Get a leg up on climbing your coach's ladder to access your roof top maintenance with this 48" ladder. The hardware secures starter ladder to your coach's exterior ladder so it cannot get knocked off. This ladder will support up to 300 pounds at a 12 Degree angle.

  • Get a leg up on climbing your coach's ladder
  • 48" ladder is secured to coach's exterior ladder
  • Supports up to 250 lbs. at a 12 Degree angle
  • Stromberg Carlson LA-148 Starter Ladder for Universal Outdoor RV Ladder

User questions & answers

Question: What is the outside diameter of the vertical poles? Thank you
Answer: 24" isn't the riser ht.
Question: Do this ladder come in black
Answer: One
Question: Are the screws and mounting hardware included
Answer: Short answer, yes on size, unsure about stainless steel but they work. Replaced mine years ago and still good as new.
Question: Will this extension fold up and on to the existing ladder, using the supplied hardware
Answer: It is made so you can cut it to the proper length which I did. The 4 holes to mount it. On the round ring Should line up to your holes if your mounting plate is round.

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