FAQs About Retracting Roofs

1. Do they leak?

This is a natural concern. Designing or retrofitting a roof to include an opening may seem like an invitation for precipitation to find its way in. Fortunately, when a few design principles are implemented thoroughly, leaks are rendered rare. We developed and perfected these techniques over our 60+ years in business. Our glazing and redundant weatherstripping systems, coupled with flashing profiles installed onto curbs, keep even wind-driven rain outside. In order to ensure proper execution of roofing components, we coordinate with your contractor.

2. How do they work?

Our approach is unlike other retracting roof systems because we use a direct drive design. One or more reversible gearmotors, mounted to the roof unit, directly drive wheels that make it move along tracks. This eliminates the need for chains, pulleys and other moving parts that could seize up or otherwise hinder performance.

Our control scheme includes a switch mounted inside the home or building within the line-of-site of the unit. Customers can opt for a key-operated switch if desired. Either type of switch allows you to retract the unit as little as an inch to fully-open, and every position in between.

3. What designs and options are available?

The configuration of your retractable roof is governed by your goals, the type of roof and space available, and your design preferences. It can blend in with your existing roof or stand out as a showpiece. For inspiration, check out our configuration options page.

Glass options are innumerable. Our team works with several common glass makeups, but can also design your roof based upon your preferences (see below for additional detail).

Frame finish is normally black, dark bronze or white, as those colors match best with our sealants. That said, there is a rainbow of additional powdercoat colors available.

Control options: rain sensors, wind sensors and humidity sensors (popular on pool projects) are available to automatically open or close your retractable roof.

Frame material: the best material for a given retractable roof project is determined by several factors, including environment, size, and potential load. In particular, the proximity to the ocean impacts material choice to ensure longevity.

4. What type of glass/covering do you use on your retractable units?

For a conditioned space (most of our units are over conditioned spaces), our typical makeup is 1-3/16” insulated tempered laminated (outboard 1/4” tempered, ½” airspace, 7/16” tempered laminated <3/16” clear tempered, .060” PVB interlayer, 3/16” clear tempered>). The glass on most projects receive a low-e treatment.

For a non-conditioned space, such as a patio or covered pool, the makeup would be 7/16” tempered laminated only, no airspace needed. For some projects, instead of glass, we will use translucent fiberglass panels or conventional roofing, standing seam, etc., if desired.

5. How big (or small) of a unit can you make?

We make our product for large, commercial properties covering thousands of square feet as well as units as small as 25 square feet for individual residences. We can design and build any sized unit, for any climate. Our Structural Engineer is licensed in most states.

6. What affects the cost?

Of course, larger units are more costly to build and install than smaller ones, but other factors such as complexity of design and chosen materials will impact the cost. For more information, review our blog post – Factors That Impact Retractable Roof Cost.

7. I don’t have room on my roof for the retractable roof to travel, do you have any options for this problem?

Yes, when roof space is limited we can work with you to plan for a biparting, telescoping or operable-over-stationary unit. Please share your roof plan or address so we can take a look at satellite imaging.

8. How fast do they operate?

Speed depends on several factors specific to each project. Our standard unit moves at around 27 feet per minute (less than 30 seconds for 12’ of travel).

9. How noisy are they?

When opening or closing, the sound level is about that of a microwave oven.

10. Do you install?

Yes, our technicians install or oversee the installation of most projects. If you are on the U.S. West Coast, we would likely send one of our crews. For other locations, we commonly send a lead technician to direct the activity of a contractor local to you.

11. Can you install in locations susceptible to hurricanes?

Yes, our engineers can configure our product for nearly any location. Oftentimes this results in the implementation of added uplift hooks and closer spacing on the wheel track fasteners. In some cases we have implemented mechanized hurricane locks.

12. Do I need a General Contractor when adding to an existing structure? 

In most cases, yes. Preparing your site for the installation of the retractable roof should be handled by a professional. Specific activities include cutting the opening, building the curbs, ensuring proper roofing and flashing work, overseeing electrical updates, hoisting the roof components, and securing permits.

13. How much power is required?

On most residential projects a dedicated 20amp/120v circuit is adequate. Electrical requirements for commercial units are unique to the project.

14. Is a permit required?

Yes. Many of our units are a small part of a much larger project, so the permit for the overall project covers the retractable roof. On smaller projects, where the only work is the retractable roof, our designer will modify our drawings to add a site plan page that is often sufficient to apply for a building permit.

15. What maintenance is needed?

Over our decades in business, we have honed our approach to retractable roof design and engineering to ensure seamless operation for many years. We know that the prospect of needing to service something on your rooftop is daunting. That’s why we design and build so maintenance is almost never required. We provide each owner with a short letter of recommendations tailored to their unit.

16. Do you service your products?

Yes. We include a 5-year warranty, during which time we will service your unit at no charge, assuming there has been no misuse or damage. We also perform service on a time-and-materials basis thereafter.