The #1 Professional Guide: How to Install High-Quality Commercial Roof Hatches

Commercial roof hatches provide essential access points to rooftops, offering convenience and safety for maintenance personnel and building occupants. Proper installation, operation, and maintenance are paramount to ensure these hatches function efficiently and reliably over time. This comprehensive guide outlines step-by-step instructions for installing, operating, and maintaining commercial roof hatches, emphasizing safety and industry best practices. 

How To Install a Roof Hatch 

Pre-Installation Preparations: 

Before installation, ensure that the cover is securely strapped and handled with caution, as it is spring-loaded. 

Positioning: 

Position the roof hatch according to the type of installation: 

• Over a ladder: Ensure proper orientation of the roof hatch based on its size and opening cover specifications. 

• Over a stairway: Position the automatic hold open release arm and red vinyl grip at the head of the stairway. 

Alignment and Leveling: 

Check the frame for proper alignment and ensure it is not twisted or racked due to an uneven mounting surface. Use shims if necessary to achieve appropriate alignment. 

Securing to Roof Deck: 

Secure the scuttle to the roof deck using appropriate fasteners through the holes provided in the base flange. 

Roofing Integration: 

Follow accepted roofing industry practices for integrating the roof hatch with the roofing material: 

• For single-ply roofing: Apply adhesive and secure membrane flashing, ensuring proper sealing. 

• For built-up roofing: Install a cant block around the curb and secure felt with finishing cement. 

Finishing Touches: 

Apply a finish coat of alkyd metal to roof hatches with red oxide factory prime to enhance durability and aesthetics. 

How To Operate a Roof Hatch 

General Caution: 

Exercise caution during operation, especially in inclement weather conditions, and consider using two persons for larger hatches. 

Single Cover Operation: 

• Opening from below: Turn the latch handle and raise the cover to the full open position. Close by pulling the red vinyl grip until it is fully latched. 

• Opening from above: Turn the latch handle and raise the cover to the full open position. Close by urging the red vinyl grip toward the closing direction. 

Double Cover Operation (Steel Units): 

• Opening from above: Raise primary cover followed by secondary cover. Close in reverse order, ensuring both covers are fully closed and latched. 

• Opening from below: Raise primary and secondary cover from below. Close the secondary cover first, followed by the primary cover. 

Maintenance: 

Lubricate pivoting joints, latch, and spring housings periodically to ensure smooth operation. 

Touch up paint on zinc-plated steel hardware and apply additional coatings for protection and longevity. 

Proper installation, operation, and maintenance of commercial roof hatches are essential for ensuring longevity, safety, and functionality. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, building owners, maintenance personnel, and occupants can maximize the performance and reliability of these critical access points. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult with professionals for specific installation requirements and recommendations. 

If you have questions about roof hatches or any other access products that we carry at Best Access Doors, call our product experts at 1-800-483-0823 for more information. If you have specific requirements, use our handy  custom quote form!