Rooftop Walkway Systems

Designated Rooftop Access

Rooftop walkways create a defined route between access points, equipment and work areas. By directing workers along a safer path, they help improve footing, reduce unnecessary exposure to rooftop hazards and protect the roof from repeated foot traffic.

Walkways can be combined with guardrails, warning lines, lifelines and other fall-protection systems where additional protection is required.

rooftop walkway

Compare Walkway Systems

Compare rigid and flexible walkway options based on the roof surface, access route and level of protection required.

Kattsafe Aluminum Walkway Systems

Kattsafe Aluminum Walkway Systems

Best For: Permanent access routes on metal, membrane and built-up roofs.

Highlights:

  • Lightweight aluminum construction
  • Multiple mounting options
  • Standard or leveled configurations
  • Available with one-sided, two-sided or no guardrails
  • Can be customized to the rooftop layout

Kattsafe Flexible Walkway System

Kattsafe Flexible Walkway System

Best For: Non-penetrating access routes across flat roofs and membrane systems.

Highlights:

  • Available in PVC and TPO
  • Loose-laid installation
  • No permanent fixing required
  • Slip-resistant walking surface
  • Contours to the roof structure
  • Helps protect the roof membrane from foot traffic

Not sure which walkway system fits your roof?

CH Bull can review the roof surface, access route and surrounding hazards to help identify the right system and configuration.

Quick Comparison Guide

Use this guide to compare the construction, installation and typical use of each walkway system.

SystemConstructionInstallationBest ForKey Difference
Aluminum Walkway SystemsAluminum gratingMounted according to the roof typePermanent, frequently used access routesAvailable leveled and with optional guardrails
Flexible Walkway SystemFlexible PVC or TPO mattingLoose laid with no fixing requiredFlat roofs and membrane protectionConforms to the roof surface and installs

Need help planning a rooftop access route?

CH Bull can evaluate where workers enter the roof, where they need to travel and what hazards they may encounter along the way.

Common Questions

No. A walkway creates a defined path of travel, but it does not eliminate every fall hazard. Guardrails, warning lines, anchors, lifelines or other protection may still be required based on the route and work being performed.

Aluminum walkways create a rigid, permanent route and can be configured with leveling components and guardrails.

Flexible walkways are loose laid directly on the roof surface. They conform to the roof and are designed to help protect the membrane from repeated traffic.

The PVC option is intended for flat roofs, gantries and elevated walkways. The TPO option is specifically designed for compatibility with TPO and EPDM roof membranes. Both are loose laid and require no permanent fixing.

Yes. Kattsafe aluminum walkways are available with one-sided or two-sided guardrails. Standard and leveled configurations are also available. Flexible walkway systems do not include integrated guardrails.

Flexible PVC and TPO systems are loose laid and require no fixing.

Aluminum walkway installation depends on the roof type. Standing-seam roofs can use non-penetrating clamps, while other metal roofs may use rivets. Non-penetrating configurations are also available for membrane and built-up roofs.

The aluminum walkway is available in leveled configurations that create a more even walking surface across sloped roof conditions. The roof and mounting requirements should be evaluated before selecting a configuration.

A designated walkway keeps repeated foot traffic within a controlled route. Flexible systems also create a protective surface between workers, tools and the roof membrane.

The route should connect the roof access point with the equipment and work areas employees need to reach. The layout should account for roof edges, skylights, openings, elevation changes and other hazards.

Helpful information includes:

  • Roof type and material
  • Roof slope
  • Access-point location
  • Destination equipment or work areas
  • Approximate route length
  • Photos or drawings
  • Nearby edges, skylights and openings
  • Frequency of access

Create a Safer Route

A designated walkway helps workers reach rooftop equipment while protecting the roof and directing traffic away from hazards. CH Bull can help plan a system around your roof, access points and maintenance needs.

Or call us directly 800-871-8440