Non-Penetrating Rooftop Stair & Crossover Anchoring Systems
Counterweighted Bases Provide Stable, Code-Compliant Rooftop Access
Secure Rooftop Access Without Compromising Your Roof
SafeRack’s Non-Penetrating Rooftop Stair and Crossover Systems offer a secure, modular access solution for navigating obstacles like piping, ductwork, and HVAC equipment—without compromising the roof membrane. Ideal for warehouses, processing plants, and industrial facilities, these systems use weighted bases to anchor stairs and platforms in place, eliminating the need for structural attachment or rooftop penetration.
Pre-engineered to comply with OSHA and IBC standards, the system provides long-term durability and dependable rooftop access, even in environments where permanent mounting isn’t an option.
Rooftop Stair Anchor
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Counterweight vs. Tie-Down Systems
ErectaStep offers two rooftop mounting methods. Selection depends on roofing material, local codes, wind exposure, and whether roof penetration is permitted.
Counterweight system.
A fully self-supporting assembly with no mechanical attachment to the roof. Galvanized trays loaded with powder-coated steel weights provide stability, and neoprene strips distribute load and protect the surface. It is the preferred option for membrane, single-ply, and green roofs, and for leased or retrofit facilities where penetrations are restricted. Rated to 115 mph wind conditions. Installation is faster because no anchoring, flashing, or roof cutting is required.
Tie-down system.
Mechanical fasteners and rooftop shackles anchor the stair and platform assemblies directly to the building structure. This method suits permanent installations where penetrations are permitted or existing tie-down points are already in place. It requires flashing, weatherproofing, and ongoing inspection to maintain watertightness, and may require additional permits.
For most retrofit and warranty-sensitive rooftops, the counterweight system is the faster, lower-risk choice. For permanent installations with approved anchoring, the tie-down system offers a hard-anchored alternative. An ErectaStep product expert can review your site with your authorized distributor and recommend the right configuration.
System Overview and Key Design Elements
The rooftop non-penetrating stair base pairs ErectaStep’s modular aluminum stairs and platforms with a galvanized steel base and integrated counterweight trays. Powder-coated steel weights load into the trays, and neoprene strips beneath the base distribute load evenly and protect the roof surface.
- Non-penetrating support.
No fasteners into the roof membrane. Eliminates leak paths and warranty risk, and shortens installation. - Counterweighted stability.
Powder-coated steel weights and a widened footprint hold the system stable in wind conditions up to 115 mph. - Corrosion resistance.
Aluminum stairs and platforms with a galvanized steel base perform in harsh outdoor and coastal environments. - Slip-Resistant and OSHA-Compliant: All treads and platform surfaces meet OSHA standards for fall protection and traction, minimizing safety risks.
- Pre-engineered configurations.
3-, 4-, 5-, and 6-step single-platform crossovers ship from stock.
Ideal for Applications
Commercial
Rooftops
Facilities with no existing anchor points or where roof penetrations are not permitted.
Manufacturing and Processing Plants
Routine maintenance access to rooftop HVAC, exhaust, and utility equipment.
Warehouses and Distribution Centers
OSHA-compliant crossover access that protects roofing warranties on membrane and single-ply systems.
Counterweight Performance Specifications
| Steps | Total System Weight | Wind Shear Load | Wind Overturning Moment |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 1,690 lb | 1,202 lb | 2,236 lb-ft |
| 4 | 1,828 lb | 1,432 lb | 3,226 lb-ft |
| 5 | 2,146 lb | 1,660 lb | 4,386 lb-ft |
| 6 | 2,454 lb | 1,889 lb | 5,716 lb-ft |
Static load capacity: 50 PSF on platforms; 1,000 lb on stairs.
Maximum roof height: 50 ft.
Wind rating: 115 mph.
Customers are responsible for verifying roof load capacity and suitability for friction-based support systems.
Rooftop Stair Installations
Resources & Specifications
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Frequently Asked Questions
The system uses engineered counterweighted bases that balance the structure and prevent tipping or shifting. Combined with non-slip pads and wide contact points, they provide exceptional stability without fasteners or roof penetration.
Yes. The non-penetrating design is suitable for most flat commercial and industrial roof types, including membrane, built-up, and coated systems. Neoprene pads protect the surface and help distribute weight evenly.
Absolutely. All configurations are pre-engineered to meet or exceed OSHA and IBC codes, including tread dimensions, platform width, and handrail requirements.
Yes. The modular design makes it easy to adjust, expand, or relocate sections as your facility needs change—without requiring new roof penetrations or structural changes.
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What Customers Are Saying
Excellent customer service. Mark Gardner was very good to work with and listened closely to my needs for modifying the platforms to better suit our needs. The personal attention to details and requests were very appreciated.
By Kevin C. from Texas Gas Transmission, LLC
Metal Work Platform We just finished installing two Erect-A-Step platforms in our new storage tank containment area, and they look GREAT! If you need help with any stairs, ladders, work platforms, or any systems to help you load your products safely, Saferack has a solution. Give them a call and they can help you too! Thanks, Tony D. and Saferack!
By Bernie K. from Total Energies
The reps were very responsive – kept excellent updates with the Hurricane situation. My order was delivered within one week. The ease of assembly, lightweight design and ease of installation are some of the best features.
By Chris H. from Lincoln Electric System
Customer service was great. We now comply with fall protection requirements. It keeps our guys safe. While these systems are expensive, the benefit outweighs the initial cost. Customer service was great – I had the drawings and assembly instructions a week before the rack arrived. Ray Evans was extremely helpful. Keep up the good work, SafeRack
By Dave K. from Westway Terminals
We needed safe metal stairs to access a roof elevation The salesman was very helpful, responsive, and made sure we would have the product delivered within the time frame the site required.
By Steve H. from New Concept Facility Services
Bryce was aware of the immediacy of this project and did everything he could to help us expedite the work. SafeRack worked with us to meet our tight schedule. The main reason for knocking a star off is that our system required several modifications to address issues that seemed to be known to Saferack, and resolving these issues and punch list items took a long time and were costly.
By Andrew P. from Haskell