Flat Roof Window vs. Roof Access Hatch

Flat Roof Window or Roof Access Hatch? The Key Differences Explained

When designing or renovating a building with a flat roof, you may face the decision between installing a flat roof window or a roof access hatch. Both solutions have their specific applications and benefits, depending on the functional requirements of your project. Do you need additional daylight and ventilation, or is safe roof access necessary for maintenance purposes? Below we outline the main differences.

What is a Flat Roof Window and What is it Used For?

A flat roof window is a glass opening in a flat roof that allows additional daylight to enter the space below and, in some cases, provides ventilation. This type of window is commonly used in residential construction as an alternative to traditional plastic skylights.

Types of Flat Roof Windows

• Fixed flat roof window – Provides daylight but cannot be opened.
• Opening flat roof window – Can be opened manually or electrically for ventilation.
• Walkable flat roof window – Suitable for roof terraces and designed for frequent foot traffic.

What is a Roof Access Hatch and When Do You Need One?

A roof access hatch provides safe access to the roof for maintenance, inspections, or emergency escape. Roof access hatches are commonly used in commercial buildings, apartment complexes, and industrial environments where rooftop installations, such as ventilation systems, solar panels, or cooling units, require regular servicing. Glazed roof access hatches are also ideal as access points to a roof terrace.

Types of Roof Access Hatches

• Standard roof access hatch – For occasional access, for example, during maintenance work.
• Roof access hatch with ladder, scissor stair, or fixed stair – For frequent access by service personnel.
• Large roof access hatches – Designed for moving materials or equipment onto the roof.
• Glazed roof access hatches – Provide additional daylight, ventilation, and an access point to roof terraces.

Staka roof access hatches are made of high-quality stainless steel (RVS) and feature a robust construction designed for long-term durability. Staka offers complete solutions for safe and efficient roof access, with seamless integration of roof access hatches and stairs.

Flat Roof Window vs. Roof Access Hatch: The Key Differences

Materials: Flat Roof Windows vs. Roof Access Hatches

Flat roof windows are typically constructed from plastic and/or aluminium. Roof access hatches, particularly Staka’s, frequently incorporate stainless steel (RVS) for enhanced performance.

Stainless Steel (RVS) – Used in Staka Roof Access Hatches

✅ Advantages of Stainless Steel:

• Extremely durable – Long service life and resistant to harsh weather conditions.
• Corrosion-resistant – Ideal for humid or industrial environments.
• High load capacity – RVS roof access hatches are stronger than aluminium or PVC, making them suitable for intensive use.
• Fire-resistant – Stainless steel has a high melting point and offers better fire resistance compared to aluminium and PVC.
• Low maintenance – Wear-resistant and requires minimal upkeep.

❌ Disadvantages of Stainless Steel:

• Heavier weight – May require a stronger roof structure.
• Higher initial cost – However, this is offset by its long service life and minimal maintenance.

Aluminium and PVC – Common in Flat Roof Windows

❌ Disadvantages of Aluminium:

• Lower strength compared to RVS – Less load capacity.
• Thermal bridging – Aluminium conducts heat and cold, requiring a thermal break for proper insulation.
• Less suitable for industrial applications – Prone to faster wear under heavy loads or chemical exposure.

❌ Disadvantages of PVC:

• Less robust than aluminium and RVS – Not suitable for heavy loads.
• Risk of deformation – Can expand or contract under extreme heat or cold.
• Limited lifespan – Especially when exposed to UV radiation and temperature fluctuations.

When Should You Choose a Roof Access Hatch?

• Your building has technical installations on the roof that require maintenance.
• Safety is a priority, and you need a durable, robust solution.
• Frequent or permanent roof access is needed for service technicians.
• Your building requires intensive use of the roof access hatch.
• Corrosion resistance and safety are key factors.

When Should You Choose a Flat Roof Window?

• The weight of the construction must be kept to a minimum.
• You are looking for an economical solution for daylight and ventilation.
• Roof access is not necessary and does not comply with building regulations.

Making the Right Choice: Flat Roof Window or Roof Access Hatch?

The choice between a flat roof window and a roof access hatch depends on the function you need the element to fulfil in your building.

• For daylight and ventilation → Flat roof window or glazed roof access hatch.
• For roof access and safety → Roof access hatch.

If you require roof access for the maintenance or inspection of installations, safe and accessible roof access is essential. A roof access hatch with a ladder or stair is the appropriate solution.
Are you looking for a durable and safe roof access solution? Contact Staka for professional advice and complete solutions for roof access. Or easily configure your roof access hatch online.