Roof hatches are often little-known installations. Yet they play an essential role in Canadian homes. They are indispensable for maintenance and safety purposes. Let’s take a look.
What’s it all about?
A roof hatch is first and foremost an opening. It’s usually built into the ceiling of an attic or upper storey. It provides direct access to the roof surface from inside the house.
These hatches are usually installed on flat or gently sloping roofs. Design and installation depend on the specific needs of a building.
But why install such openings? They facilitate roof inspections, maintenance and repairs. They also make it easier to access various equipment on the roof. From ventilation systems to antennas and solar panels.
Access hatches on Canadian homes
Roof access hatches are indispensable in Canadian regions with harsh climates. Harsh conditions can make roof maintenance difficult. Moreover, these elements must meet special requirements. Temperatures are very low during Canadian winters. Snowfall can also be very heavy. Structures must be able to withstand these stresses.
Here are the essential access hatch configurations:
- Insulation and waterproofing :
The presence of an access hatch must not compromise the building’s insulation (thermal and acoustic). Any loss of heat must be avoided. Especially during the cold season. Less efficient insulation will increase energy costs. In addition, condensation problems could arise. This could cause structural damage. At the same time, a roof access hatch must be perfectly watertight. Any infiltration must be impossible. Whether water, air or snow. This is essential to ensure the comfort of the inhabitants and the durability of the roof.
- Load resistance :
Because snow will exert pressure in winter, all roof components must withstand relatively high loads. Access hatches are no exception. They must be strong. In all cases, the integrity of the roof must be preserved.
- Safety standards :
Access hatches must comply with current safety standards. It’s important to remember that these openings are used for a variety of operations on the roof. Safety must be ensured at different levels: the structure, the occupants and the workers. This involves various parameters, such as opening size, access and anti-fall devices.
We can install an access hatch to your roof
At Toitures LV, we can install various elements of your roof. Our technicians can install an access hatch according to the rules. We use robust materials. We also use proven techniques. Let us know what you’re planning, and we’ll suggest possible solutions.
