FAQs

What are roof hatches?

They provide safe and convenient access to roof areas by means of an interior ladder, ship stair, or service stair. They also provide a way to get equipment, or materials onto or off of a roof.

How do people access roof hatches?

They are commonly accessed via stairways or ladders from inside the building. Additionally, safety rails or safety ladders are often installed on the exterior of the hatch to ensure safe and comfortable passage into and out of the opening.

Are roof hatches commonly installed at the time of construction or afterward?

The bulk of installations occurs at the time of construction or to replace an existing hatch that was damaged. Installing them after construction is possible.

Who specifies the hatch to be used?

Generally, an architect will specify the size and/or style of the hatch in the designs. It will then be left up to the general contractor or roofing subcontractor to source the hatch as part of their bid.

Are roof hatches always used on roofs?

No, they can be used on any surface where a portal is needed. While most are used on roofs, they have also been used as floor hatches to provide an entry and exit for a sublevel.

Are roof hatches used only in commercial construction?

No. While they are used primarily in commercial construction, designers of residential buildings use them as points of egress to roof decks and gardens, making it easy for roof gardeners or amateur astronomers to get their supplies and equipment up to the roof safely and easily.

Additionally, in flood-prone areas, roof hatches are being installed to provide a safe way to exit to the roof, minimizing damage to the roof or residents.

Best Sellers

Bilco RPRS7 Replacement Door Latch - Zinc Plated
Non-stainless steel Replacement door latch for roof hatches
Price: $164.95

The Bilco RPRS7 Replacement Door Latch is a zinc plated latch assembly intended for roof hatches with a 1″ cover. It includes required zinc plated bolts and self-tappers, and a 4-5/8″ shaft for proper handle reach. The latch is chrome sealed for enhanced corrosion resistance and designed to retrofit without replacing the cover. Key Features: Zinc plated steel construction with chromate seal for corrosion protection Shaft length of 4-5/8″ to match 1″ cover roof hatch lids Comes with self-tapper...

Bilco S-20 - Galvanized Steel Roof Hatch, 36" x 30"
Ladder Access
Price: $955.00

The Bilco S-20 is a 36-inch by 30-inch Type S roof hatch designed for ladder access. Its insulated cover and curb, fully gasketed design, overlapping cover with counterbalanced lift make for easy one-hand operation. The hatch is constructed in either galvanized steel or aluminum, with compression spring operators, a slam latch with interior and exterior handles, padlock hasps, and Bil-Clip flashing at the curb to integrate with roofing. Key Features: Counterbalanced cover with automatic...

Bilco LU-4 - LadderUP Safety Post - Aluminum
Provides easier, safer ladder access through roof hatches; floor, vault and sidewalk...
Price: $695.00

The Bilco LU-4 Roof Hatch is engineered to provide safe and convenient service stair access through a 30 inch by 78 inch opening. Its design supports frequent use in commercial and industrial applications where personnel and equipment require rooftop access. The LU-4 includes an insulated cover and curb, welded construction, and an EPDM gasket for reliable weather tightness. Heavy-duty compression springs provide lift assistance, while a hold-open arm secures the cover in place during use. Key...

Bilco RL2-S - Bil-Guard 2.0 Hatch Railing System, 36" x...
Provides a permanent means of fall protection for roof hatch openings
Price: $1,675.00

The Bilco RL2-S is a fixed safety railing system designed to fit 36″×30″ roof hatches of the S-20, S-40, or S-50 models. Its construction uses 1¼″ schedule 40 aluminum pipe for rails and posts, with non-penetrating brackets that mount to cap flashing. A self-closing gate with a cast aluminum latch ensures the opening is secured, and all hardware is type 316 stainless steel for corrosion resistance. The railing is powder-coated safety yellow and meets or exceeds OSHA fall protection standards....

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