Choosing a Roof Hatch Supplier: 8 Important Considerations

A roof hatch plays an important role in providing safe roof access in many buildings.

It provides access for inspections, maintenance and work on technical installations. But how do you choose a reliable roof hatch supplier? In addition to product quality, delivery options, certification, technical support and service are important factors to consider.

A good supplier can provide advice during the design phase, if required, and offer solutions that meet the requirements of your construction project. In this article, we discuss eight important considerations to help you compare and select the right roof hatch supplier.

1. Experience and specialisation in roof access

Not every supplier of building products specialises in roof access. A roof hatch must not only fit into the building design but also suit the intended use of the roof.

Gorter has extensive knowledge of different building situations and can advise on the most suitable solution for your application. Examples include roof access for apartment buildings, schools, hospitals, commercial properties and industrial buildings.

Gorter has been developing and manufacturing access solutions for buildings since 1928. Thanks to this extensive experience, Gorter® can support architects, contractors and building owners with a wide range of roof access requirements.

2. Certification for safe working and proven performance

When choosing a roof hatch supplier, it is important to consider the available certifications. These provide architects and construction professionals with assurance regarding the technical performance, operational safety and suitability of roof hatches for different construction projects.

Gorter® roof hatches carry CE marking based on a European Technical Assessment (ETA). This means that their product performance has been independently assessed and documented. It provides architects with a reliable basis for including roof hatches in technical specifications and tender documents.

In addition, RHT roof hatches have been tested for harmful substances by the Sentinel Holding Institut (SHI). They are QNG Ready and suitable for sustainable construction projects using certification systems such as DGNB, LEED, BREEAM and BNB.

The safety of the complete roof access solution is also supported by verified testing. Gorter® offers TÜV NORD-certified roof access combinations consisting of a roof hatch with a matching ladder, scissor stair or fixed staircase. These combinations have been tested in accordance with relevant safety standards, including EN 14975:2010. This allows architects and contractors to incorporate safe and certified roof access into their designs from the earliest stages.

3. Technical support during the design phase

When designing a building, various structural components must be carefully coordinated. A good roof hatch supplier provides technical support on matters such as the required roof opening, the available space beneath the roof hatch and integration with the roof structure.

It is also important that the supplier provides up-to-date technical documentation, including dimensions, sectional drawings, specification texts and BIM files that can be incorporated directly into the design.

4. A wide product range for different applications

No two buildings are the same. It is therefore important to choose a supplier that offers different roof hatch versions and dimensions.

For an apartment building, a compact roof access solution may be sufficient, while a hospital or industrial building may have different requirements regarding dimensions and accessibility, depending on the intended use of the roof.

A wide product range also offers advantages when several roof access points are required within a single construction project. Sourcing different solutions from the same supplier ensures greater consistency in technical documentation, ordering and installation.

5. Customisation options

Although standard roof hatches are suitable for many applications, certain building situations may require a customised solution.

Examples include non-standard roof openings, limited installation space or a roof hatch or lifting hatch that must provide access for moving large technical installations.

In addition to standard dimensions, Gorter offers custom-made roof hatches for specific building and industrial applications. This makes it possible to create roof access solutions for even the most unusual requirements.

6. Reliable delivery and availability

Good planning is essential during a construction project. If a roof hatch is not delivered on time, this can delay work on the roof structure and subsequent construction activities. A reliable supplier communicates clearly about delivery options and takes the project schedule into account.

Gorter's range of standard roof hatches is available directly from stock. Delivery times for customised solutions may vary, but these can be agreed in advance to ensure that everything proceeds according to schedule.

7. Installation support and easy installation

The choice of roof hatch supplier also affects work on the construction site. Clear installation instructions, technical support and straightforward installation contribute to an efficient construction process.

For roofers and contractors, it is important that a roof hatch can be installed easily and integrates properly with the roof structure and roofing materials.

Gorter® roof hatches are delivered fully assembled and ready for installation, allowing them to be installed directly on site. This saves installation time and reduces the amount of work required on location.

Gorter also provides comprehensive installation instructions and technical documentation. If questions arise regarding installation or implementation, technical specialists are available to provide support.

8. Service and support after delivery

Even after a building has been completed, a roof hatch remains an important part of the roof access solution. Depending on its application, the roof must remain accessible for maintenance and inspections throughout the building's service life.

Gorter® offers a 10-year warranty on its roof hatches. Customers can also obtain product information and support with questions about existing roof access solutions.

Why choose Gorter® as your roof hatch supplier?

Choosing a supplier for your roof hatch or roof hatches involves more than simply comparing products and prices. Experience, technical expertise, a wide product range and reliable support all contribute to the successful completion of your construction project.

With almost 100 years of experience, Gorter offers an extensive range of roof hatches and complete roof access solutions. From technical support during the design phase to delivery and installation, we provide guidance at every stage of the construction process.

Need advice on choosing a roof hatch?

Are you looking for a reliable roof hatch supplier for a new-build or renovation project? Explore our product range or contact our specialists for personalised advice. Together, we can determine which roof access solution best meets your project's requirements.