Roof hatch ideas – modern rooftop access options

Roof hatch ideas vary as much as roofs do. Hatches have to provide easy access whether you need it for maintenance or to access your rooftop garden or deck. What is of greatest importance – safe and secure access to the roof and we shall look at the different options and some of the most popular types of access hatches.

Modern roof hatch ideas – materials and properties

Hatches can be manufactured in different sizes, shapes, or other modifications to meet the specific needs and provide convenient roof access. There are many roof hatch ideas which feature different materials – aluminum, galvanized steel, stainless steel or a combination of aluminum and steel. They have to provide an efficient thermal insulation and keep the heat inside during winter period and the cool during summer time.

The security is an issue that you should consider carefully. Make sure you the hinges are weather resistant so you are not unpleasantly surprised from rust. When choosing a hatch, you need to check the weight as a heavier construction may be not suitable.

Safety should be a priority and you should consider hand rail equipment which will ease the exiting to the roof. Many models are equipped with an automatic locking which guarantees that the lid will not close and lock you out.

You need to choose from a variety of stairs, ladders, scissor stairs, retractable and removable stairs and make sure that they can be easily locked when in use to prevent accidental falling.

Consider fire resisting properties. Such designs feature fire rated cover and if you use your roof as an outdoor entertaining area, such an additional feature is especially recommendable.

Roof hatch ideas and types of opening

The different roof hatch ideas feature not only a variety of materials but different options for opening. Lifting, semi-retracting, electrically operated, hinged, sliding, double leaf hatch, etc. With a motorized or manual operation – this is entirely dependent on the customer’s choice and the construction of the roof.

Sliding varieties are extremely wind resistant with great safety features for the users and easy maintenance and eventual replacement costs.

Hinged or lift top options are one of the most popular among homeowners. They do not require vertical sides and sometimes the lid, when open, can be performing the role of a protective balustrade for the stairs.

If you opt for a raised hatch you have to make sure that the roof will be able to support the construction and there is a possibility for enough headroom above the stairs.

Glazed options are simple, convenient and efficient. The major advantage of glazed hatches is that they do not block natural light. Glazed hatches are quite suitable for apartments, small houses or office buildings.