Roof access hatches can enhance a building’s structural integrity, add value to home or condo property and make it easier for workers to reach rooftop equipment. They come in several design options, including insulated covers that cut energy costs.

roof access hatches design options	A hatch’s design depends on how and why it will be used. Some models include locking mechanisms that prevent unauthorized entrants from accessing rooftop equipment. For more roof access hatches design options, check this out.

Ladder Access

If your commercial building requires frequent access to roof equipment or rooftop repairs, it’s time to consider a roof hatch. Instead of dragging ladders around or leaning them against the roof, these doors provide convenient, safe through-ceiling access to your facility’s rooftop.

Ladder access hatches are available in various sizes with openings up to 30″ x 54″. To make entering and exiting the door easier, add a ladder safety post that mounts on the top two rungs of your fixed ladder and telescopes up through the hatch when it’s opened, providing users with a positive hand-hold throughout their egress.

A standard slam latch provides security, and interior or exterior padlock hasp options are also available. Energy efficiency is assured with a fully insulated design that seals between the hatch cover and the curb. And because they’re not visible from ground level, these hatches don’t detract from the aesthetics of your facility.

Stair Access

If staff members will access the roof using a full-sized ship stair, then a larger hatch is required (ship stair access) that opens 30″ x 54″. These roof hatches are more accessible to navigate and permit more effortless movement of equipment and personnel. For more roof access hatches design options, check this out.

Hatches should be insulated with either an integral or a separate foam insulation to be energy efficient and provide sound attenuation. They should have a fully welded design with a positive seal between the cover and curb to prevent water infiltration from wind-driven weather. For safety, they should also have a standard slam latch that includes interior and exterior padlock hasps for security and can be customized with keyed cylinder locks.

Most metal building roof hatches are manufactured from galvanized steel for an initial degree of corrosion resistance, with a primer paint finish. However, stainless steel and copper products are available for applications that require more excellent corrosion resistance or a higher level of aesthetics.

The frequency and reason individuals will access the roof area can also influence the hatch size required. For example, if maintenance personnel carry extensive tools and equipment up to a rooftop to service equipment, a larger stair access hatch may be needed.

For additional security, many hatches are designed to have interior and exterior padlock hasps for easy attachment of locking devices. Hatches can also be equipped to open remotely via an electric motor or winch, providing ventilation and simplifying operation. In addition, most manufacturers offer special finishes to add corrosion resistance or allow a hatch to match a building’s exterior. These options make roof hatches a safer alternative to exterior wall ladders that anyone can easily climb.

Skylights

Whether installing new rooftop equipment or making roof repairs, a properly installed and functioning roof access hatch makes it easier for maintenance and facility staff to get there. Careful consideration of design elements and options helps ensure that the hatch you specify will provide safe rooftop access and trouble-free service for years. For more roof access hatches design options, check this out.

 

Hatches can be sized to accommodate ladder or stair access, with the frequency and reason individuals need to access the roof area helping determine the size required. A larger hatch with the ship or service stair should be specified if it is necessary to carry extensive tools or parts onto the roof for service.

Many manufacturers offer insulation options for the cover and curb of a roof access hatch to improve thermal performance levels in a building. Louvres can be incorporated into the curb for additional ventilation, and special finishes are available for added corrosion resistance and to match a building’s aesthetic.

Asbestos is a serious workplace hazard associated with incurable diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis. It is most dangerous when it becomes airborne.

During asbestos removal, control monitoring tests the air to check that respirable fibre levels are below the exposure standard. Clearance air testing is also necessary to test an area after asbestos removal to ensure it is safe to re-enter. For professional asbestos air testing Adelaide services, check this out.

Identify Asbestos Fibres

asbestos testing Adelaide
Asbestos fibres can be released into the air when asbestos-containing materials (ACM) are damaged, disturbed or removed unsafely. Once airborne, they can be inhaled and lodged in the lungs, causing severe health problems.

Symptoms of asbestos exposure may not appear for years, even decades after initial contact. During this time, they can cause severe and potentially life-threatening diseases such as mesothelioma and lung cancer.

The most common type of asbestos found in homes is friable. This means it breaks easily into small fragments, which can be released into the air and inhaled. On the other hand, non-friable asbestos has a more robust material around it, which helps keep the fibres contained.

To determine whether a sample contains asbestos, it must be sent to a laboratory for further analysis. Our state-of-the-art mobile laboratory is NATA-accredited for asbestos air monitoring and building materials testing. The laboratory will use a method of transmission electron microscopy to reveal the kind and number of asbestos fibres present in a sample.

Remove Asbestos Fibres

When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed by touching, rubbing, or handling, microscopic fibres can be released into the air. These fibres can then be inhaled, lodging in the lungs where they can remain for years and cause serious health issues. These include lung diseases such as mesothelioma and incurable conditions such as asbestosis. For professional asbestos air testing Adelaide services, check this out.

It’s important to note that only a trained and accredited asbestos professional can take samples for analysis. If the material in question isn’t damaged and won’t be disturbed (by renovating, for example), it may not need to be tested and can safely remain undisturbed.

If the asbestos is deemed to need removal, a qualified inspector must conduct air monitoring before, during and after the removal work. This ensures that the asbestos is removed correctly and the area is safe for re-occupancy. This includes organising and conducting clearance inspections to issue the Asbestos Clearance Certificate. PLM and TEM sampling methods can be used for this purpose.

Control Asbestos Fibres

Asbestos fibres risk human health if inhaled and lodged in the lungs. Asbestos exposure can cause mesothelioma (pleural cancer) and asbestosis – both incurable diseases. These are only a few other disorders that can result from prolonged asbestos exposure.

Friable asbestos products (non-bonded) release a high volume of fibrils when sanded, scraped or otherwise disturbed. This is the reason why a licenced asbestos professional should always undertake work on such materials.

Non-friable (bonded) asbestos products, such as roof shingles and cement sheeting, are unlikely to release fibres into the air unless they are badly damaged or weathered. Static air monitoring is often required for these types of works, and the results are used to validate the effectiveness of control measures.

Greencap’s occupational hygienists also have experience conducting silica, lead and synthetic mineral fibre (SMF) air monitoring for construction projects. This can be achieved with our state-of-the-art mobile lab (Lab in a Van) or by setting up worksite-based laboratories. For professional asbestos air testing Adelaide services, check this out.

Remediate Asbestos Fibres

Asbestos fibres pose a health risk when they are inhaled. Exposure to asbestos fibres can cause various diseases, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and pleural plaques. The latency period for these diseases can be between 20 and 50 years.

If asbestos-containing materials are in good condition and will not be disturbed (by remodelling, for example), they are unlikely to release any asbestos fibres. However, they may become damaged over time and could remove the threads.

Repairing and covering asbestos materials is usually the best solution. You must patch any holes or cracks with a commercial product designed to do so, and always wet the fabric before you apply the patch. You should also wear gloves and a dust mask when working with any type of repairs or removal.

Normus Homes is a home builder that specialises in building custom-designed single-family homes. They offer a dedicated consultant for each project and detailed builder and finish schedules. Their designs are perfect for growing families and empty nesters alike.

This NormusHomes luxury home builders Adelaide, is a member of the Master Builders Association. It is known for its excellent customer service and high-quality work.

Normus Homes

NormusHomes luxury home builders AdelaideIf you are looking for luxury home builders, you have a lot of choices in Adelaide. These companies build bespoke homes designed to meet the needs of modern families and reflect their unique style. They use high-end materials that add value to the property and last a long time. They also offer custom-designed floor plans and can help you find the perfect home for your budget.

You can find a reputable custom home builder in your area by researching online. Look at customer reviews and compare prices to make the best decision. Once you have narrowed your options, visit model homes and talk with the builders to see what they can do for you. Choosing the right luxury home builder ensures your new dream house becomes a reality.

Adelaide’s best custom builders will work closely with you to design a home that suits your lifestyle. They will listen to your concerns and goals and help you create a bespoke forever home. These builders have extensive experience and will treat your home as if it were theirs. They will also keep you updated throughout the construction process.

Another advantage of custom home building is that it can save you money. A custom builder will charge you less than a production home builder, as they can use the same materials and labour for multiple homes. You will also save on septic systems, fencing, and plumbing costs. These savings can be passed on to you through lower home prices.

Normus Homes is a custom home builder in business since 1991. They specialise in customised single-family homes. Their team will provide you with a dedicated consultant for each project and detailed builder and finish schedules. They can also tailor their homes to suit site characteristics and zoning requirements. Their bespoke designs are ideal for growing families or empty-nesters.

NormusHomes luxury home builders Adelaide offers a complete concept-to-completion solution. They are family-owned and operated and have won numerous awards. Their quality construction and dedication to customer service have earned them a strong reputation in the industry. They are members of the Master Builders Association of South Australia and the Housing Industry Association.

Precision Homes

A luxury home requires high-end materials and a lot of design features that can add up to a significant expense. To ensure that you don’t spend more than you can afford, hiring a custom home builder who understands your budget and can break down the costs into affordable payments is essential. These experts can help you select the right floor plan, exterior finishes, and interior decor. They can also help you choose the best location for your new home.

In addition to offering various designs, Precision Homes provides multiple services that can save you time and money during construction. Their builders are highly skilled and experienced, and they can handle any project, from a single renovation to a complete knockdown and rebuild. They can even help you find land and arrange the required permits.

The company also has a team of architects and engineers to assist in designing your dream home. They can also help you choose the best floor plan and layout to suit your style, budget, and lifestyle. You can visit their showroom to see their latest designs and features or schedule an appointment with a designer.

Medallion Homes

If you’re considering a custom home, choosing a builder who is experienced and understands the building process is essential. Look for one that offers a warranty and guarantees on their work, and ask for references. They should be able to answer all your questions and concerns so you can feel comfortable with the process. Choosing the right home builder can save you time and money and ensure your dream house turns out exactly how you want it to. For more information about NormusHomes luxury home builders Adelaide, click here.