Roof Access Ladder
I recently purchased a two-story rowhouse that was at one time converted to a 2 family (apt upstairs). I want to take it back to the original 1 family, and in doing so, I want to eliminate the little closet with the roof hatch. As far as I can tell, the roof hatch is not…
I recently purchased a two-story rowhouse that was at one time converted to a 2 family (apt upstairs). I want to take it back to the original 1 family, and in doing so, I want to eliminate the little closet with the roof hatch. As far as I can tell, the roof hatch is not required – the Fire Department needs a vent in the case of a fire – which could be the existing skylight. However, I will need access to the roof and I want to locate a steel ladder on the outside in the rear that would take you from the roof of the one story extension to the upper roof. I cannot figure out if this is allowed or not. Any thoughts?
There are traditional Hooped Ladders available in the market with aluminium, stainless steel, galvanized steel or a range of powder coated finishes depending on your application requirements.
Lowe’s has a reasonable fold-up ladder & offers installation: Werner Televator – $189 when I looked 2 years ago.
How would one install this new skylight/hatch with stairs etc? Who would you contact to do that work? Anyone want to take a stab at cost? It means cutting through ceiling and roof.
“Not sure about the code, but burglars will love you for it.”
Indeed!
Also, if the ladder is above a certain length, then you’ll have to provide an OSHA cage. I do a lot of climbing around buildings, and I much, much prefer roof access via a hatch than an exterior ladder. It just feels so unsafe.
If you’re worried about losing closet space, then may I suggest a set of folding stairs that store themselves in the ceiling?
“Not sure about the code, but burglars will love you for it.”
My thoughts exactly!!!
If it is a flat roof it is required.
why stop there, convert the rear wall of the house into climbing wall. You can use it instead of gym.
Burglars would have to tangle through a lot of landscaping to get to it, and wouldn’t be able to get up there without scaling a stuccoed wall first. Yes I want to get rid of hatch completely. I thought that the roof hatch was for the fire department to use as a relief valve for smoke, not as an exit. I have ways out both directions if the stairs are blocked….just not sure if this is allowed.
Sounds to me like you want to get rid of hatch access to the roof completely. You don’t say why, and I for the life of me can’t figure out why you’d want to. When there has been a fire on the stairs, or blocking access to the lower doors – or even just a lot of smoke and heat – that hatch has been for many, and could be for you, a lifesaver. Why tempt fate?