Rooftop Support Systems recently completed a project in Philadelphia, PA involving four custom access platforms of varying heights and sizes with a custom roof ladder. These platforms were specifically designed to withstand high winds, while also providing access to rooftop HVAC units requiring routine maintenance. Our client was in need of multiple platforms at varying heights, so extensive measurements and drawings were required to determine the additional strength needed to ensure total safety in adverse weather conditions.
What Is A Roof Ladder?
A roof ladder, in the context of custom rooftop platform installations, is a specially designed ladder system used to safely reach roof platforms that support equipment such as HVAC units, solar panels, or communication devices. These ladders are engineered to meet the unique requirements of each project, taking into account factors like roof height, equipment layout, and structural constraints.
Customization options can include variations in ladder height, width, rung spacing, materials (such as aluminum or steel), safety cages, fall protection systems, and integration with guardrails or platforms. This tailored approach ensures both compliance with safety regulations and compatibility with the specific architectural and operational needs of the building.
The Need For Wind Resistant Roof Access
High winds pose a significant obstacle when selecting and designing roof access platforms and ladders, as they can compromise both structural integrity and user safety. Rooftop equipment is often exposed to intense wind loads, and access systems that are not properly anchored or engineered to withstand these forces risk becoming unstable or even detaching from the building. For this reason, extensive field measurements and localized wind data were required for accurate drawings and designing.
When designs fail to account for high winds, issues such as vibration, swaying, or structural failure can occur, putting maintenance personnel at serious risk and potentially damaging both the ladder and surrounding rooftop equipment. Therefore, it’s essential to incorporate wind load calculations, reinforced anchoring systems, and aerodynamic design elements to ensure safe and durable roof access solutions in windy environments.
Designing A Custom Access Platform & Roof Ladder Around Strong Winds
For this specific client, wind resistance was a major concern for their four custom rooftop access platforms and roof ladders. One of the access platforms also needed to be configured significantly taller in height in order for maintenance crews to access rooftop HVAC units. We approached the design by first conducting detailed field measurements and analyzing localized wind data specific to the building’s rooftop environment. Using this data, our engineering team adjusted the platform and ladder drawings to account for wind load distribution and structural stress points.
To enhance stability and prevent wind-induced movement or uplift, we strategically added weight to the platform legs using reinforced bases and integrated ballast systems, ensuring a lower center of gravity and secure footing without compromising the roof’s structural integrity. Each roof ladder was also custom-fabricated to precisely fit the building’s dimensions and align seamlessly with the platforms, incorporating features like extended standoffs, non-slip rungs, and wind-rated anchoring brackets. This tailored approach not only ensured maximum safety and compliance with wind resistance standards but also delivered a durable, site-specific access solution.
Why Your Next Roof Access Project Deserves the Experts at RTS
Upon completion, our customer was highly satisfied with the project, and praised us for our attention to detail, responsiveness, and the overall quality of the custom-designed access platforms and roof ladders. They appreciated how our team took the time to understand the unique challenges of their rooftop environment, especially the need for high wind resistance, and delivered a solution that was both safe and structurally sound.
Our ability to adapt the design based on precise field measurements and wind data set us apart and gave the client confidence in the long-term reliability of the installation. For future customers with similar needs, Rooftop Support Systems is fully equipped to provide tailored access solutions that prioritize safety, durability, and code compliance. Whether it’s challenging weather conditions, complex roof layouts, or specific equipment access requirements, we bring the same level of expertise and customization to every project.
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