198934 Roof Stairs INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS.pdf - Westeel

Part Number: 198934 

Revision: 8 

ROOF STAIR 

INSTALLATION AND STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS 

READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY AND COMPLETELY 

BEFORE BEGINNING ASSEMBLY OF GRAIN BIN 

EFFECTIVE DATE: June, 2013

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Description 

Page 

Table of Contents ........................................................................ 2 

New in This Manual ..................................................................... 3 

Limited Warrenty ......................................................................... 4 & 5 

Disclaimers .................................................................................. 6 

Critical Assy ................................................................................. 7 

Product Storage ........................................................................... 8 & 9 

Important Notes ........................................................................... 10 

Planning the Location of Ladder Components ............................ 11 

Roof Stair Assembly .................................................................... 12 

External Ladder Assembly Considerations ........................... 13 

Typical Roof Stair Modules Layout ....................................... 14 

Roof Stair Module Layout ..................................................... 15 

Stair Assembly ...................................................................... 16 - 20 

Inspection Hatch Cage Assembly ......................................... 21 - 23 

Roof Stair Hardware Usage .................................................. 23 

Roof Stair Package Bills of Material ..................................... 24 

Optional Peak Rail Assembly ...................................................... 24 - 27 

Peak Rail Hardware Usage .................................................. 28 

Peak Rail Bills of Material .................................................... 28 

Optional Peak Platform Assembly .............................................. 29 - 31 

Peak Platform Hardware Usage .......................................... 31 

Peak Platform Bills of Material ............................................. 31 

Optional Stair Block-off Assembly .............................................. 32 - 34 

Stair Block-off Hardware Usage .......................................... 34 

Stair Block-off Bills of Material ............................................. 34 

Optional Catwalk Access Information ......................................... 35 

Appendix I - Roof Stair Part Identification ................................... 36 - 37 

Appendix II - Roof Stair Part Identification .................................. 38 - 39 

Page 2

NEW IN THIS MANUAL 

• Changed 234116 description from 30' to 54' Bins - to - 30' to 108' Bins, Page 31 

Page 3

LIMITED WARRANTY 

Westeel Division of Vicwest Operating Limited Partnership ("Westeel") warrants products that it 

has manufactured and/or that are branded with its name (the "goods") subject to the following 

terms and limitations, (the "warranty"): 

1. Duration of Warranty. The duration of the warranty is limited as follows: 

Galvanized Bins 

EasyCheck 

EasyFlow 

EasyAer 

Floors 

SeedStor-K Cones 

Paint 

Structural 

SeedStor Cones 

Paint 

Structural 

Elite Cones 

Paint 

Structural 

WESTEEL cones 

Paint 

Structural 

Smooth Wall Bins 

Paint 

Structural 

12 months 

12 months 

24 months 

12 months 

12 months 

12 months 

30 months 

30 months 

10 years 

30 months 

10 years 

no warranty 

12 months 

30 months 

10 years 

The duration of the warranty will run from the date of purchase from a dealer or distributor 

authorized by Westeel (the "warranty period"). 

2. Limitation of Remedies Replacement. Within the warranty period, Westeel will replace 

the goods and/or original manufactured components thereof which are found, to Westeel's 

satisfaction, to be defective. Westeel is not responsible for direct, indirect, special, 

consequential, or any other damages of any kind, including personal injury to any 

individual, howsoever caused, including caused by transportation of the goods for repair 

or replacement 

3. Procedure for Obtaining Service. In the event of a warranty claim, the purchaser must 

complete any and all information required by Westeel in order to properly assess or 

investigate the claim. Westeel will not be responsible for the removal of any of the goods 

found to be defective, or transportation charges to and from Westeel's authorized dealer 

or distributor, or for installation of any replacement goods and/or parts furnished under the 

warranty.

Limitations as to Scope of Warranty. The warranty does not extend to defects or damage 

Page 4 

caused, in whole or in part, by: 

i. use of a kind and/or to a degree not reasonably expected to be made of the goods; 

ii. 

iii. 

iv. 

improper storage of the goods both prior to and after purchase; 

damage caused by, or in the course of, installation or assembly; 

any use of the goods which is not an intended use as specified in Westeel's 

published product literature, or otherwise specified by Westeel in writing; 

v. any equipment attached to or used in conjunction with the goods; 

vi. 

vii. 

viii. 

ix. 

any field modifications or substitutions to original bin components; 

inadequate ventilation or any other circumstance not in keeping with proper 

maintenance and/or use of the goods; 

Acts of God, accident, neglect or abuse of the goods by the purchaser and/or any 

other individual or entity; or 

Any use or installation inconsistent with Westeel’s Standard Disclaimers. 

4. Limitations as to Manufacturer. The warranty does not cover products sold by Westeel 

that are not manufactured by Westeel. In those circumstances, the purchaser is referred 

to the manufacturer of those products. 

6. Limitation of Implied Warranties and Other Remedies. To the extent allowed by law, 

neither Westeel nor its dealers, nor any company affiliated with Westeel makes any 

warranties, representations, or promises as to the quality, performance, or freedom from 

defect of any Product covered by this Warranty. 

WESTEEL HEREBY DISCLAIMS, TO THE EXTENT APPLICABLE, ANY AND ALL 

IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR 

PURPOSE. A PURCHASER’S ONLY REMEDIES IN CONNECTION WITH THIS 

WARRANTY ARE THOSE SET FORTH IN THIS WARRANTY. IN NO EVENT WILL 

WESTEEL, ITS DEALERS, OR ANY COMPANY AFFILIATED WITH WESTEEL BE 

LIABLE FOR INCIDENTIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES. 

Some jurisdictions do not allow waivers of certain warranties, so the above waivers may 

not apply to you. In that event, any implied warranties are limited in duration to ninety 

(90) days from delivery of the products. You may also have other rights which vary from 

jurisdiction to jurisdiction. 

7. Exclusive Warranty. This warranty is the only warranty provided by Westeel and all 

other warranties and/or commitments, whether express or implied and no matter by whom 

made, statutory or otherwise, are subsumed and replaced by it and are of no legal effect. 

If any provision of the warranty is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be void or 

unenforceable, in whole or in part, such provision shall be deemed severable and will not 

affect or impair the legal validity of any other provision of the warranty. 

Page 5

DISCLAIMERS 

Foundation Design 

The foundations for the stiffened bin models are based on 4000 lbs. per sq. ft. (192 kPa) soil 

bearing capacity. All foundation designs use 3000 lbs. per sq. in. (21 MPa) ultimate compressive 

strength (after 28 days) for concrete and 43,500 lbs. per sq. in. (300 MPa) re-bar. The foundation 

designs included in this manual are suggestions only, and will vary according to local soil 

conditions. Westeel will not assume any liability for results arising from their use. 

IMPORTANT:Foundation should be uniform and level. Level should not 

vary by more than ¼" over a span of four feet under the 

bottom ring angle. Any variance from level must be shimmed 

under upright base assembly. If being utilized to support a full floor 

aeration system, this levelness requirement should extend across 

the complete floor area. 

Method of Erection 

The recommendations for erecting Westeel Grain Bins should be closely followed to achieve the 

full strength of the bin and to achieve adequate weather sealing. Warranty is void if the 

recommendations are not followed including but not limited to: 

1. Wall sheets and/or uprights, which are not specified for a given tier, are used. 

2. Foundations are found to be inadequate or out-of-level. 

3. Anchor bolts (cast-in-place, drill-in, chemical type or other) are found to be inadequate. 

4. Off-center loading or unloading is used. This does not apply to the use of approved side 

unloading systems. 

5. Materials stored are not free-flowing or have a compacted bulk density greater than 55 

lbs/ft 3 (880 kg/m 3 ). 

If using Bin Jacks: Always lift on an upright. Choose a hoist with a suitable capacity for the 

expected empty bin deadload. Make sure the rated capacity of the hoist is not 

exceeded. 

LADDER \ STAIR USAGE 

The WESTEEL Ladder \ Stair in grain bin is designed to provide access to the roof for 

inspection and maintenance purposes only. Excessive weight can cause component failure. 

The Ladder \ Stair is not designed to support the transport of heavy apparatus from the 

ground to the roof. The user should not carry more than 30 lbs of tools and equipment on his 

person. No more than one person should stand on the same ladder rung, stair tread or 

platform at the same time. No more than two persons should occupy the ladder \ staircase at 

the same time. 

Design 

These Westeel Grain Bins are designed for: 

1. Non-corrosive, free-flowing materials up to 55 lbs/ft 3 (880 kg/m 3 ) average compacted bulk 

density. 

2. Maximum horizontal gusted wind speed of 94 mph (151 km/h). 

3. Seismic zone 2a (U.B.C. 1997). 

4. 15.0 lbs/ft 2 (.72 kPa) roof snow load. 

24.0 lbs/ft 2 (1.15 kPa) roof snow load when the optional roof stiffening rings are installed. 

5. 4000 lbs. (17.8 kN) evenly distributed on peak ring for 15’ – 24’ bins. 

5000 lbs. (22.2 kN) evenly distributed on peak ring for 27’ – 48’ bins. 

Page 6

Site and Assembly 

Unless otherwise specifically provided in writing, Westeel does not take responsibility for any 

defects or damages to any property, or injury to any persons, arising from or related to any site or 

assembly considerations, including but not limited to: 

• Bin location and bin siting; 

• Soil conditions and corresponding foundation requirements (note that the examples 

provided in manuals are for specifically stated soil conditions); 

• Bin assembly (Westeel recommends the use of qualified bin installers; contact 

Westeel for information on installers in your area); 

• Field modifications or equipment additions that affect the bin structure; 

• Interconnections with neighbouring structures. 

• Compliance with all applicable safety standards, including but not limited to fall 

restraint systems (ladders or other systems). Local safety authorities should be 

contacted as standards vary between jurisdictions. 

Critical Assembly Requirements 

1. Local code and jurisdictional requirements that are applicable to the grain bin installation 

must be adhered to. 

2. Foundations must be designed for the loads being imparted to them, and for local soil 

conditions. Westeel foundation guidelines are for a set of stated conditions and may not 

be applicable to local conditions. 

3. A foundation must provide uniform and level support to the grain bin structure being 

supported. Surface imperfections causing gapping must be remedied. This may involve, 

but not be limited to - grouting under the bottom ring of a non-stiffened bin, and shimming 

under the uprights of a stiffened bin or under the legs of a hopper. 

4. If extending an existing bin, ensure that the foundation is adequate for the increased loads 

that will be subjected to it. 

5. If installing an existing bin on a hopper, ensure that the bin is designed for a hopper 

application, and that the foundation is capable of withstanding the substantial point loads 

that the hopper legs apply. If uprights are present, ensure that they are supported. 

6. Ensure that the proper hardware is utilized for all bolted connections. Refer to the 

‘Hardware “Where Used” Chart’ in the Installation Manual. If a shortage occurs do not 

substitute. Take the necessary steps to obtain the proper hardware. Ensure nuts are 

tightened to the required torque values as provided in the Installation Manual. 

7. Refer to the appropriate Installation Manual to ensure a safe, proper structure, in 

particular but not exclusively for the wall sheet and upright layouts. Do not deviate from 

the layouts provided. 

8. Ensure that an integral end-to-end connection exists between mating uprights. 

Successive uprights must not overlap. 

Page 7

9. Vertical tolerances between uprights and wall sheets are tight. This can be affected by 

“jacking” techniques, which can allow the tolerance to grow or shrink depending on the 

technique used. The gapping between successive uprights must be monitored to ensure 

that upright holes align with bin sheet holes. 

10. When installing roof stiffening rings, and if it is necessary to shorten the stiffening ring 

tubes, shorten them as little as possible. Initially the nuts on the expanders should be 

centered and as close together as possible. When tightening, share the amount of takeup 

between expanders such that the nuts remain centered, and the amount of 

engagement between all expanders on the same ring is equalized. 

11. Before anchoring the bin to the foundation, ensure that the bin is round. The maximum 

variation from perfect roundness is 3/4" on the radius (see details in "wall sheet and 

bottom angle " section of manual). Locate anchor bolts towards the outside of the anchor 

bolt holes (away from bin) to permit the incremental expansion that can occur with the 

initial filling. 

Grain Bin Use 

1. Do not off-center unload a grain bin. It is imperative to unload from the center of the bin 

first, until as much grain as possible has been removed, and only then proceed to unload 

from the next closest unload gate to the center. Continue utilizing the unload gates in 

succession from the center towards the outside. Gate control mechanisms should be 

clearly marked and interconnected to prevent an external gate from being opened first. 

2. The only exception to center unloading is when a properly designed and installed side 

draw system is utilized. However, as bins tend to go out of round when employing side 

draws, the bin must be completely emptied before refilling. 

3. When unloading a bin with a mobile auger through a properly designed auger chute, the 

entry end of the auger should be pushed into the center of the bin before the auger is 

engaged. Slower rates of flow are preferable and should not exceed the capacity of an 8” 

auger. 

4. Ensure that the inner door panels of grain bin doors are completely closed and latched 

before filling the grain bin. 

5. Never enter a loaded grain bin for any reason. Grain can be a killer. 

Rust on Galvanized Parts 

Product Storage 

1. White rust forms when moisture is allowed to collect on galvanized surfaces that have yet to 

develop the durable zinc oxide layer. This zinc oxide layer naturally occurs as the surface 

interacts with carbon dioxide, and is characterized over time by the dull grey appearance that 

weathered galvanized surfaces get. 

2. Parts that are not well ventilated or well drained can collect water between surfaces and 

develop white rust. 

3. White rust is not a structural concern if its development is stopped in the early stages. A 

light film or powdery residue can occur after a period of heavy rainfall or a short time of 

improper storage. If white rust has started to develop, separate parts and wipe off any 

moisture. Next, using a clean cloth, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or food-grade oil 

to the entire part. 

Page 8

4. If moisture is left on parts, this white rust can become more aggressive and turn into red 

rust. Red rust can cause degradation in the material and become a structural concern. 

Any parts that have red rust should be replaced immediately. 

Storage Guidelines 

1. Keep all bundles dry before assembly of the 

bin. Start assembly as soon as possible. Do not 

lay bundles on the bare ground, raise all bundles 

6” – 8” off the ground on wood blocks or timbers. 

Store curved wall sheets ‘hump-up’. All other 

bundles material should be placed so that they are 

well sloped to promote good drainage. 

2. Roof sheets must be elevated at least 12” at the 

small end of the sheets. 

3. Temporary storage can be provided by erecting 

a simple framework supporting a waterproof tarp. 

4. All bin boxes, ladder boxes and hardware boxes should be stored inside. These are not 

waterproof, and will deteriorate in normal weather conditions, allowing moisture to contact 

the parts inside. 

If Parts Become Wet 

1. If goods become submerged or wet, the 

bundles should be opened as soon as possible, 

sheets or material separated and dried. Keep 

separated until assembly. Brace goods 

properly so as to avoid damage or injury from 

material falling when in storage. 

2. Any boxed goods that become wet should be dried and stored in a new box that is free of 

moisture. 

3. In addition to wiping down wallsheets, a food-grade oil can also be applied with a clean, 

lint-free cloth. This will assist in preventing any further moisture from contacting the 

galvanizing on the steel. Due to safety concerns with installation and use, Westeel does 

not recommend the use of oil on other parts such as roof sheets and safety ladders. 

Page 9

IMPORTANT NOTES 

1. In order to maintain your wall sheets in good condition separate sheets and allow air 

circulation between them. Store sheets in a dry place. Do not store sheets with sheet 

ends pointing upwards. 

2. To keep an even pressure on walls, the bin must always be unloaded from the centre. 

3. Contact local power officials for minimum power line clearance. 

4. See "Disclaimers - Design" for materials which can be stored. 

5. Tighten all bolts to the recommended torque setting (see Recommended Bolt Torques 

table in Appendix). 

6. Do not locate grain bin close to high buildings, which might cause snow to fall onto or 

build up on the roof of the grain bin. Consider future expansion and allow space for 

loading and unloading of the bin. Your dealer and local government agricultural 

consultants can help you plan your storage system for maximum efficiency. 

Shortages and Damaged Parts; 

Report damaged parts or shortages immediately to the delivering carrier, followed by a 

confirming letter requesting inspection by the carrier, if required. Order any replacement parts 

immediately to ensure that assembly will not be held up by missing parts. All parts will be 

charged for and credit will be issued by party at fault - no credit will be issued if freight bill are 

signed as received in good condition. 

Order Optional Equipment; 

Optional equipment such as unloading augers, aeration equipment, anchor bolts, foundation 

sealant, external ladders, safety cage and platforms, etc., should all be on site and checked 

before assembly starts. Plan your installation in advance. For details, see assembly 

instructions supplied with optional equipment. 

List of Warning Decals; 

236564 

236088 

Consistent with Westeel Limited’s policy of continued research and development of our 

products, we reserve the right to modify or change information contained in this publication 

without notice. 

Page 10

PLANNING THE LOCATION OF LADDER COMPONENTS 

Timing of the positions of ladder, eaves rails, roof stairs or roof ladders, platforms and inside 

ladders, with respect to each other, and other bin components is very important. Consideration of 

this must be given to this during the planning stages before erection of the bin is initiated. The 

following are some points to consider. 

Inside Ladders – The inside ladder sections bolt to existing holes in the horizontal seams of the 

wall sheets which are spaced at a consistent 9 3/8”. The inside ladders should also be centered 

on the roof panel that contains the inspection hatch opening. Therefore this roof panel should be 

centered on the horizontal wall sheet hole that is also the intended center of the inside ladder 

sections. Spinning the top ring angles, and roof sheets, relative to this location on the wall 

sheets, may be required to achieve optimum fit-up. 

Roof Stairs or Roof Ladders – The external ladder sections bolt to existing holes in the 

horizontal seams of the wall sheets. The roof stairs, or roof ladders, bolt to the ribs of roof 

panels. The roof stairs, or roof panels, are also positioned to the right, or left, of the inspection 

hatch. The latter should be centered on the inside ladders, if present. It may also be desirable to 

position the roof stairs, or roof ladders, relative to some external elements such as overhead 

conveyors, or catwalks. 

Therefore the roof panel to which the roof stairs, or roof ladders, are bolted to, must be centered 

as much as possible, to the center of the external ladder and eaves rails. Spinning the top ring 

angles, and roof sheets, relative to the wall sheets, to align this roof panel relative to the intended 

location of the external ladder may be required to achieve optimum fit-up. 

Uprights – Stiffened bins must be given additional consideration since the external 

ladder/platform combinations must be mounted on either side of a stiffener location. On a 

stiffened wall sheet the upright locations can be identified by the line of vertical holes set in from 

either end (see page 11). 

Therefore, for fully featured bins containing external ladders, eaves rails, platforms, roof stairs or 

roof ladders, and inside ladders, the following is an example of the timing considerations that 

should be undertaken prior to the construction of the bin. 

• Select the location of the various ladder components relative to external elements such 

as conveyors or catwalks. 

• Select the location of the various ladder components relative to other bin elements such 

as stencil sheets, door openings, remote vent opener, etc. 

• Determine the upright location that the external ladder sections and platforms will be 

centered on. During the initial assembly phases mark these locations on the top ring of 

wall sheets. For non-stiffened bins this is not a consideration. 

• Determine if the inspection hatch is located on the right, or left side of the external ladder 

sections. 

• Locate the top ring angles and roof panels relative to this position such that the roof panel 

containing the inspection hatch is centered, as much as possible, on the hole in the wall 

sheet that depicts the center of the inside ladder sections. In general, the center of the 

inside ladder sections should be 37 ½” (or 4 horizontal wall sheet spaces @ 9 3/8”) to the 

right or left of the center of the external ladder sections. 

• In the absence of an internal ladder, center the roof panel to which the roof stairs or roof 

ladders are being bolted to, to the center of the external ladder sections. 

Page 11

PLANNING THE LOCATION OF LADDER COMPONENTS (cont.) 

IF PRESENT, INSIDE LADDERS 

SHOULD BE CENTERED ON THE 

INSPECTION HATCH 

CENTER THE SIDEWALL LADDER ON THE ROOF 

LADDER, OR ROOF STAIRS, AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE. 

ON STIFFENED BINS, THE POSITION OF THE 

SIDEWALL LADDER RELATIVE TO THE UPRIGHTS 

CAN BE IMPORTANT (SEE BELOW). IT MAY BE 

NECESSARY TO POSITION THE ROOF RELATIVE TO 

THE UPRIGHTS WHEN INITIALLY ASSEMBLING TO 

AVOID INTERFERENCE WITH THE UPRIGHT. 

If there is a ladder/platform combination, it is necessary to position the consecutive sidewall ladder runs 

on either side of an upright. The proper side wall bolt holes are illustrated below for a ladder positioned to 

the left of the upright. The mirror image of these holes can be used if the ladder is on the right side of the 

upright. 

LADDER ATTACHMENT 

POINTS 

UPRIGHT LOCATION 

Page 12 

PLATFORM ATTACHMENT 

POINTS

Wall Ladder Assembly Considerations – When mated with a roof stairs, the external ladders, cages and eaves rails 

should be assembled as per the assembly instructions contained with those products. However, there are a few additional 

requirements as noted below. 

1. For 15’ – 54’ Diameter: Bolt on the single ladder extension rung (234098) when assembling the pass through rails to 

the top ladder section as shown. The same hardware that is supplied with the ladder package is used. For these bin 

diameters, the cage assembly remains as per the instructions provided in the ladder installation manual. 

SINGLE LADDER 

EXTENSION (234098) 

Figure 1 

For 60’ – 108’ Diameter: Bolt on the double rung ladder extension (234103) as illustrated below. This double rung 

part is an extension of the ladder. The pass through rails (234505), are raised accordingly. For stability both pass 

through rails must be secured to the bottom lip of the first roof stair (Figure 4). The support arms (234504) must also 

be used as described below. For these bin diameters the top safety cage section only must be extended. See the 

illustration for the difference in the top cage section. 

54' 

60' 108' 

60' 108' 

Figure 2 

Page 13

2. On the side of the roof stair opposite to the inspection hatch location, the support arms (234504) are installed as per 

the instructions in the ladder manual, using the support arm clips (234517) and support arm brackets (234518), if the 

roof stair is properly centered to the external ladder. Alternatively one support arm can be attached to the stair 

stringer, (Figure 3). If there is interference of the support arm that extends inward, with the stair stringer, another 

means of properly supporting the pass through rail, inwards and outwards, will need to be developed. The method 

proposed in the next step would be adequate. 

LADDER 

SUPPORT ARMS 

(234504) 

PASS THROUGH RAILS 

(234505) 

SUPPORT ARM 

BRACKETS (234518) 

Figure 3 

SUPPORT ARM CLIP 

(234517) 

3. On the side of the roof stair adjacent to the inspection hatch, the support arms (234504) are used to form part of the 

protective cage around the inspection hatch (Figure 27). It is very important that the pass through rail is secured 

to the roof structure in an inwards and outwards direction. Pick the location where the pass through rail crosses 

the flange of the bottom stair tread. Drill a 3/8” hole completely through the pass rail tube, and through the 

flange of the stair tread. Secure using a 3/8” x 4 1/2” fully threaded bolt (150475) that is triple nutted as 

shown (Figure 4). Secure the bolt to the pass through rail with one nut, and sandwich the flange on the stair tread 

with the remaining 2 nuts. Adjust the relative position of the nuts and tighten to lock into position. If possible, also 

secure the second pass through in the manner as well. 

PASS THROUGH RAILS 

(234505) 

STAIR TREAD 

Figure 4 

Page 14

TYPICAL ROOF STAIR INSTALLATION 

(BOTTOM STAIR MODULE SHOWN AS IF INSPECTION HATCH ON RIGHT SIDE OF 

STAIRS) 

HAND RAIL 

STAIR TREAD 

SHORT 

HANDRAIL 

LEFT STRINGER 

(BOTTOM FLANGE 

POINTS OUTWARD) 

HANDRAIL 

POST 

MIDDLE RAIL (BOTTOM 

FLANGES POINT 

OUTWARDS) 

STRINGER RIGHT 

(BOTTOM FLANGES 

POINTS OUTWARD) 

3/8” x 1” BOLT AND 

NUTS (TYPICAL) 

3/8” x 1” BOLTS AND 

NUTS (TYPICAL) 

SHORT MIDDLE RAIL 

Z-SHAPE 

SUPPORTS 

Figure 5 

*SHORT HANDRAIL AND MID-RAIL ARE 

PROVIDED FOR THE BOTTOM STAIR MODULE 

(THIS MODULE IS AT THE LOWERSM POSITION 

ON THE ROOF). THE OTHER MODULES CONTAIN 

THE REGULAR LENGTH HANDRAILS AND MID- 

RAILS (SEE LAYOUT SECTION). 

• For larger bin diameters, additional roof stair modules bolt together as shown in the 

layout drawings. 

• The bottom end of the stair, the short rail and short midrail bolt on the side of the stair 

adjacent to the inspection hatch. The mating handrail post is moved forward to 

accommodate. 

Page 15

ROOF STAIR MODULE LAYOUTS 

ROOF STAIRS (in assembly order) 

BIN MODEL 

STAIR TREAD MODULES 

15' 5 

18' 7 

21' 8 

24' 6 5 

27' 5 7 

30' 7 6 

33' 8 7 

36' 8 8 

39' 5 7 7 

42' 7 6 7 

45' 6 8 8 

48' 8 8 7 

51' 5 7 7 7 

54' 7 7 7 6 

60' 8 8 7 7 

66' 6 6 6 8 8 

72' 8 8 8 7 7 

78' 7 7 7 7 7 7 

84' 5 5 7 7 7 7 7 

90' 8 8 8 8 8 8 

96' 6 6 8 8 8 8 8 

102' 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 

108' 5 5 8 8 8 8 8 8 

SHADED MODULE IS THE BOTTOM MODULE (supplied with short hand and mid rails) 

NON COMMON PART NUMBERS 

DESCRIPTION 

5 TREAD 6 TREAD 7 TREAD 8 TREAD 

MODULE MODULE MODULE MODULE 

STRINGER RIGHT 234059 234057 234055 234053 

STRINGER LEFT 234058 234056 234054 234052 

HAND RAIL 234065 234066 234067 234068 

MIDDLE RAIL 234060 234061 234062 234063 

SHORT HAND 

RAIL* 

234087 234088 234089 234090 

SHORT MIDDLE 

RAIL* 

234071 234072 234073 234074 

* SUPPLIED FOR BOTTOM MODULE ONLY 

Page 16

Roof Stair Assembly – The following assembly instructions should be used in combination with the layouts provided in the 

Layout Section for the bin diameter under construction. The layouts provide part numbers, and relative positioning of the 

principle components. 

1. In general 3/8” x 1” bolts and nuts are used unless 

noted otherwise. The best method of construction 

would be to conduct as much of the assembly on 

the ground, as possible, and then lift the 

completed assembly into place and secure to the 

bin roof structure. 

Z-SECTION BOLTS ON SUCH 

THAT THE FLANGE WITH 

MULTIPLE SLOTS POINTS DOWN 

THE ROOF AND MATES WITH THE 

ROOF RIBS. 

Figure 6 

MATING STRINGER SECTIONS OVERLAP. 

BOTTOM FLANGES POINT OUTWARD. 

2. If multiple stringer sections are being utilized, 

assemble these sections together. Consult the 

Layout Section for the bin diameter in question, 

for the part numbers being utilized, and the 

location of each. Note that there are left and 

right stringer section sections and the stringer 

flanges point outwards. It is also necessary to 

bolt on the stair treads at this time. For the larger 

bin diameters with many stair modules it would be 

desirable to assemble the stair in manageable 

parts and bolt the mating assemblies together as 

they are fitted to the roof. 

CENTER STAIR 

ASSEMBLY ON 

UNDERLYING 

ROOF PANEL. 

Figure 7 

3. Z-supports bolt to the stringers at the hole 

locations in the bottom flanges. There should be a 

Z-support at every hole location. Note that the 

flange with the multiple slots is positioned 

downwards and mates to the roof ribs. On the 

top flange of the Z-support there are three 

possible bolting locations. These allow the roof 

stairs to be shifted to the right or left in relation to 

the underlying roof panels if this is desirable. In 

general the center bolting location should be 

used. However at the bottom end of the roof 

stairs, it may be desirable to shift the Z- 

support to the right or left if there is the 

possibility of it interfering with the operation 

of the inspection hatch, or if it interferes with 

the use of the internal ladder sections. 

LOWER Z- 

SUPPORT 

SHIFTED TO 

AVOID 

INSPECTION 

HATCH 

Figure 8 

Page 17

For 60’ – 108’ Diameter Bins: For bins where there is a step in the roof ribs, there are two sizes of Z-supports to 

accommodate the additional height at the bottom of the roof. The standard Z-section (234070) is 4” high. These are 

used at the top of the roof. The extended Z-sections (234104) are 7 ⅞” high and are used at the bottom of the roof. 

7 ⅞ 

Figure 9 

4. At this time the roof stairs can be mounted to the roof panel. Position the bottom Z-section relative to the bottom 

holes in the roof panels. There is flexibility with the fit-up but the bottom stair tread should be positioned close 

enough to the pass through rails to permit the bolting of the two pieces together as provided in Step 3 in the External 

Ladder Assembly Considerations above. In general, the center of the bottom flange on the Z section is located 

6” above the bottom hole in the roof ribs on 15’ to 24’ diameter roofs, and 5” above the bottom hole in the 

roof rib for 27’ to 54' diameter roofs. For bin diameters 60’ and larger the Z section is located 12 ¾” above 

the bottom edge of the roof rib. In all cases the bottom stair tread should be within 1 to 2" of the ladder pass 

through rail. There is some allowance in the slotted holes for side to side movement. For best results center the roof 

stair on the roof panel, and on the ladder pass through rails, as much as possible (see section on Timing 

Considerations). Drill hole locations into the roof ribs as required and secure with hardware. Putting the sealing 

washer on the inside insures a water tight seal. Note: If the layouts are followed correctly, and if the roof stairs are 

located properly, there should be no interference between the Z-supports and existing bolt locations along the roof 

rib. If this does occur, the complete stair assembly can be moved up or down slightly to avoid these bolt locations. 

Alternately the Z sections can be rotated at these locations such that the bottom flange is pointing upwards. 

Figure 10 

POSITION 

BOTTOM STAIR 

TREAD WITHIN 1" 

TO 2" OF THE 

LADDER PASS 

THROUGH RAIL 

SECURE PASS THROUGH 

RAILS TO BOTTOM OF STAIR 

TREAD AS PER ITEM 3 IN 

PREVIOUS SECTION. 

Page 18

5. For extra stability at the top of the stairs, locate the point 

where the Z-section protrudes across neighboring roof ribs. 

Using the closest slot in the bottom flange of the Z-support as 

a guide, drill a 3/8” hole through the underlying rib. Insert a 

3/8” x 4 1/2” fully threaded bolt (150475), washers and triple 

nut as shown. Secure the bolt to the roof rib with one nut, and 

sandwich the flange on the Z-section with the remaining two 

nuts. Adjust to take up the slack and tighten to lock in 

position. Repeat on the other side, and at other locations 

where convenient. Putting a sealing washer (taken from a 

3/8” bin bolt) on the inside insures a water tight seal. 

FOR EXTRA STABILITY 

BOLT THE Z-SECTION 

TO OTHER ROOF RIBS 

Figure 11 

6. Attach the vertical hand rail support C-sections as shown. Consult the Layouts for part numbers and positioning. 

There is a long handrail, that goes on the side of the roof stair opposite to the inspection hatch, and a short section, 

that goes on the side adjacent to the inspection hatch. The lower vertical hand rail support, on the side of the stair 

next to the inspection hatch, is positioned higher up on the stringer to accommodate access to the inspection hatch. 

ON THE BOTTOM STAIR MODULE, 

THE LONGER HANDRAIL 

POSITIONED ON THE NON- 

INSPECTION HATCH SIDE 

ON THE BOTTOM STAIR 

MODULE, THE SHORT 

HANDRAIL POSITIONED 

ON INSPECTION HATCH 

SIDE 

Figure 12 

ON THE BOTTOM STAIR 

MODULE, THE VERTICAL 

HANDRAIL SUPPORT ON 

INSPECTION HATCH SIDE OF 

THE STAIR IS POSITIONED 

HIGHER UP, TO ACCOMMODATE 

SHORTER HANDRAIL 

Page 19

7. Bolt on hand rails and mid rails as shown in the 

Typical Roof Stair Module Assembly. If multiple 

stair modules are being used, mating handrails fit 

into each other at the support post locations. One 

end of one handrail fits into the other end of the 

second handrail as shown. The mid rails are 

positioned on the inside of the vertical hand rail 

supports, with the “V” positioned as shown. 

Mating mid rails also overlap. 

MATING HANDRAILS 

OVERLAP AT SUPPORT 

POST LOCATIONS. 







Figure 13 

Figure 13 

8. Attach a warning chain (234101) to a spare hole on the upper end of a hand rail, by securing a bolt through the end 

link on the chain. Drape the chain across the stairwell opening and hook into a hole (must be drilled) on the opposite 

handrail 

HOOK SECURES TO 

SPARE HOLE IN 

HANDRAIL. 

Figure 15 

Page 20

Inspection Hatch Cage Assembly (This is supplied as a standard feature of the roof stairs.) 

1. Attach three 1” diameter support arms (234504) to the pass through rail adjacent to the inspection hatch as 

illustrated, using support arm clips (234517). Position the lowest 1” diameter support arm just above the bend 

in the pass through rail, position the top support arm as high as possible and position the center support 

arm midway between the other two. 

UPPER SUPPORT ARM 

POSITIONED AS HIGH AS 

POSSIBLE. 

PASS THROUGH 

RAIL 

SUPPORT ARMS 

(234504) 

PLASTIC CAP 

(234559) 

SUPPORT ARM CLIPS 

MIDDLE SUPPORT 

ARM POSITIONED 

MID-WAY BETWEEN 

UPPER AND LOWER 

VERTICAL 

SUPPORT TUBE 

(234069) 

LOWER 1” 

DIAMETER 

SUPPORT ARM 

POSITIONED JUST 

ABOVE BEND IN 

PASS THROUGH 

RAIL. 

BOTTOM SUPPORT 

ARM (234100) 

BOTTOM, LOWER 1 ¼” DIAMTER 

SUPPORT ARM POSITIONED 

BELOW BEND IN PASS THROUGH 

RAIL. 

Figure 16 

POSITION VERTICAL 

SUPPORT TUBE, 

DRILL WALL SHEET 

TO MATCH AND 

SECURE WITH 

HARDWARE. 

2. Using the support arms as guides, position the vertical support tube (234069) such that it attaches to the other ends 

of the support arms using the support arm clips, bridges the eave of the roof panel, and aligns alongside the wall 

sheet. Using the holes in the vertical support tube as a guide, drill 3/8” holes through the crest of the mating wall 

sheet corrugations and attach using 3/8” x 2 ½” bolts. Putting the sealing washer on the inside insures a water tight 

seal. Attach the plastic cap (234559) to the vertical support tube. 

Page 21

3. Also bolt on the 1 ¼” diameter, longer, lower support rail (234100) between the pass through rail and the vertical 

support tube, again using support arm clips. Position the lower rail lower down on the pass through rail, below 

the bend in the pass through rail (Figure 16). 

4. When attaching the top support rail to the pass through rail, use the bolt and nut to secure the end link on the 

second warning chain (234101). Hook the other end of the chain to a mating hole in the vertical hand rail support 

across the opening. 

SECOND WARNING 

CHAIN (234101) 

HARDWARE ON 

UPPER SUPPORT 

ARM CLIP USED TO 

SECURE WARNING 

CHAIN 

Figure 18 

Figure 17 

5. Prevent the support arm clips from sliding down the pass 

through rail tube and the vertical support tube by securing with 

the self drilling screws provided (900461). 

SELF DRILLING SCREW 

(900461) SECURES SUPPORT 

ARM CLIP. 

Figure 19 

Page 22

6. Attach the final support arm (234504) to the vertical support tube, and to the nearest roof rib, as shown, utilizing the 

support arm clip and support arm bracket, as shown. Drill into, and secure to the roof rib as required. 

Figure 20 

USE SUPPORT ARM AS 

BRACE TO SECURE 

VERTICAL SUPPORT 

TUBE. 

ROOF STAIR HARDWARE USAGE 

All roof stair and related connections are made using 3/8" x 1" bolts and 3/8" nuts, except for the following: 

- Clamps built into Top Cage Hoops secure using 3/8" x 1 ½" bolts 

- Pass Through Rails secure to sidewall ladder using 3/8" x 2 ½" bolts (these are supplied with the ladder) 

- Vertical Support Tube secures to the wall sheet using 3/8" x 2 ½" bolts 

- Pass Through Rails secure to front lip of stair tread using 3/8" x 4 ½" fully threaded bolts and 3 - 3/8" nuts at each 

location 

- For stability, "Z" supports secure to roof ribs using 3/8" x 4 ½" fully threaded bolts and 3 - 3/8" nuts at each location 

- To keep the horizontally placed support arms from slipping down the vertical supports, secure using the #10 x ¾" self 

drilling screw 

234085 - Roof Stairs Hardware Package 

Part Number Description Quantity 

234943 Bolts - 3/8" x 1" (bag of 50) 4 

193797 Bolts - 3/8" x 1 1/2" 5 

150517 Bolts - 3/8" x 2 1/2" 7 

150475 Bolts - 3/8" x 4 1/2" 18 

235951 Nuts - 3/8" (bag of 100) 2 

900461 Self Drill Screws - #10 x 3/4" 14 

234517 Support Arm Clip 7 

234559 Pipe Cap 3 

234101 Chain 2 

198934 Manual - WC Roof Stairs1 

Page 23

ROOF STAIR PACKAGES 

15' 18' 21' 24' 27' 30' 33' 36' 39' 42' 45' 48' 51' 54' 60' 66' 72' 78' 84' 90' 96' 102' 108' 

Part No. Description Size Weight 234075 234076 234077 234078 234079 234080 212615 234082 212616 234083 212617 234084 212618 234105 234106 212619 234107 234109 212620 234110 212621 212622 212623 

234050 HANDRAIL POST 39.2" 6.7 4 4 4 6 6 6 6 6 8 8 8 8 10 10 10 12 12 14 16 14 16 18 18 

234052 STRINGER ‐ 8 TREAD LEFT 104.4" 35 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 3 6 5 6 

234053 STRINGER ‐ 8 TREAD RIGHT 104.4" 35 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 3 6 5 6 

234054 STRINGER ‐ 7 TREAD LEFT 91.1" 31.9 1 1 1 1 2 2 1 3 3 2 2 6 5 8 

234055 STRINGER ‐ 7 TREAD RIGHT 91.1" 31.9 1 1 1 1 2 2 1 3 3 2 2 6 5 8 

234056 STRINGER ‐ 6 TREAD LEFT 77.8" 27.2 1 1 1 1 1 3 2 

234057 STRINGER ‐ 6 TREAD RIGHT 77.8" 27.2 1 1 1 1 1 3 2 

234058 STRINGER ‐ 5 TREAD LEFT 64.5" 22.6 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 

234059 STRINGER ‐ 5 TREAD RIGHT 64.5" 22.6 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 

234060 MIDDLE RAIL ‐ 5 TREAD 55.1" 6.1 1 2 1 1 1 3 3 

234061 MIDDLE RAIL ‐ 6 TREAD 68.4" 7.6 1 2 2 1 2 5 3 

234062 MIDDLE RAIL ‐ 7 TREAD 81.7" 9 1 2 1 2 4 3 2 6 5 4 4 11 10 15 

234063 MIDDLE RAIL ‐ 8 TREAD 95.0" 10.6 1 1 3 4 3 3 4 5 11 10 12 

234064 STAIR TREAD 12" x 24" 7.7 5 7 8 10 11 12 14 15 17 18 20 21 23 24 27 30 34 37 39 43 46 49 51 

234065 HANDRAIL ‐ 5 TREAD 55.1" 8.8 1 2 1 1 1 3 3 

234066 HANDRAIL ‐ 6 TREAD 68.4" 10.9 1 2 2 1 2 5 3 

234067 HANDRAIL ‐ 7 TREAD 81.7" 13 1 2 1 2 4 3 2 6 5 4 4 11 10 15 

234068 HANDRAIL ‐ 8 TREAD 95.0" 15.1 1 1 3 4 3 3 4 5 11 10 12 

234069 SUPPORT POST 1.66 OD x 79.0" 12.1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 

234070 Z‐SUPPORT 4" 48.0" 14.2 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 3 4 4 4 4 5 5 2 2 3 3 3 3 3 4 4 

234071 MIDDLE RAIL ‐ 5 TREAD SHORT 37.1" 4.1 1 1 1 1 1 1 

234072 MIDDLE RAIL ‐ 6 TREAD SHORT 50.4" 5.6 1 1 1 1 

234073 MIDDLE RAIL ‐ 7 TREAD SHORT 63.7" 7.1 1 1 1 1 1 1 

234074 MIDDLE RAIL ‐ 8 TREAD SHORT 77.0" 8.5 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 

234085 ROOF STAIR HARDWARE PACKAGE 18.82 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 

234087 HANDRAIL ‐ 5 TREAD SHORT 37.1" 5.9 1 1 1 1 1 1 

234088 HANDRAIL ‐ 6 TREAD SHORT 50.4" 8 1 1 1 1 

234089 HANDRAIL ‐ 7 TREAD SHORT 63.7" 10.1 1 1 1 1 1 1 

234090 HANDRAIL ‐ 8 TREAD SHORT 77.0" 12.2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 

234098 LADDER ‐ SINGLE RUNG 4.8" 1.7 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 

234100 SUPPORT ARM ‐ BOTTOM 1.25" OD x 41.9" 3.6 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 

234103 LADDER ‐ DOUBLE RUNG 15.8" 4.3 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 

234104 Z‐SUPPORT 7.87" 48.0" 20.86 3 4 3 4 5 4 5 5 5 

234504 SUPPORT ARM 1.0" OD x 36.0" 1.9 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 

234511 LADDER CAGE ‐ TOP HOOP 5.4 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 

234542BDL LADDER CAGE ‐ VERTICAL BAR BUNDLE 30" 8.4 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 

234543BDL LADDER CAGE ‐ VERTICAL BAR BUNDLE 25" 7.7 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 

235943 BOLT .375 x 1.0 GR8.2 ZJS500 (Bag of 50) 2.55 1 1 2 3 3 4 4 6 6 

235951 NUT HEX .375‐16 GR5 ZJS500 (Bag of 100) 1.6 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 3 3

Optional Peak Rail Assembly 

The peak rail is an option to the roof stairs and is intended to be assembled to the roof stairs. 

1. Bolt the two extensions (234068) to the upper vertical handrail support C-sections on the roof stair (fIGURE 

21). Note that these supports should be installed such that the center web of the C-section is on the inside 

of the bin (towards the peak ring). The tops of the peak rail extensions protrude about 8 ½” above the 

vertical handrail supports. They are bolted on, such that the protruding legs of the angles are on 

the inside and pointing towards the peak ring. 

EXTENSION 

FLANGES 

ON INSIDE 

EXTENSION (234068) 

Figure 21 

PEAK 

RING 

TOP VIEW 

CENTER WEB OF HANDRAIL 

SUPPORT FACING TOWARDS PEAK RING 

VERTICAL HANDRAIL 

SUPPORT C-SECTION 

2. Preassemble the peak rail support posts (234092) to the support clips (234093) such that when the clips 

match the slope of the roof, the support posts are vertical. The flange on the support posts should be 

oriented such that the peak rails are attached on the inside of the support posts. 

SUPPORT POST FLANGES 

ON INSIDE (TOWARDS PEAK RING) 

SUPPORT POSTS ARE VERTICAL 

Figure 22 

3. Using U bolts, loosely secure one peak rail tube to the extensions (234068) that are attached to the roof 

stair handrail support posts and the second tube to the mid-point of the handrail support posts. At the 

upper location the tubes should butt up against the flange of the extensions. At the mid-point 

location, the tubes should not protrude inside of the plane of the handrail support. Once the tubes 

have been leveled (as per the following instructions) it is necessary to secure the ends of the tubes using 

self-drilling screws at the two locations referred to here. Drill in from the outside of the tubes, through the 

pilot holes provided. 

Figure 23 

BUTT TUBE ENDS 

AGAINST EXTENSIONS 

BEFORE SECURING 

LOWER TUBES SHOULD 

NOT PROTRUDE INSIDE 

OF SUPPORT POSTS 

Page 25

4. The support posts should be roughly distributed among the available roof ribs for the roof in question. Start 

with the support post that is across from the roof stairs. Using the peak rail tubes as guides, position this 

support post such that it mates with both tubes at the two desired locations. Drill the roof rib to mate with 

the holes in the support clip. Secure the support post assembly to the ribs and to the safety tubes. The 

support posts should be vertical. 

USE THE PEAK RAIL TUBES 

LOOSELY SECURED 

TO THE ROOF STAIR, TO LOCATE 

THE SUPPORT 

POST ACROSS FROM THE ROOF 

STAIRS. 

Figure 24 

5. Locate the remaining support posts such that the spaces between them are roughly equal, secure to the 

peak rail tubes using the U-bolts. Drill into the roof ribs and secure with the hardware provided. 

DISTRIBUTE REMAINING PEAK RING SUPPORT 

POSTS EQUALLY AROUND THE ROOF 

SECURE ON ROOF RIBS 

Figure 25 

6. Drill in self drilling screws from the back of the handrail supports and extensions (as per #3) to secure the 

end of the peak rail tubes at all four locations 

USE SELF DRILLING SCREWS 

TO SECURE PEAK RING TUBES 

AT ROOF STAIR HAND RAIL 

SUPPORT LOCATIONS 

Figure 26 

Page 26

7. Install pipe plugs (234102) into the end of the peak rail tubes. 

8. Tighten all connections 

9. Install two support arms (234504) on two support posts at roughly 90º to the roof stairs (one of either side) 

to brace the structure laterally. Bolt the support arms to the flange of the support posts and attach the other 

end to the roof rib using the support arm brackets (234518) 

FASTEN SUPPORT ARMS 

TO STIFFEN THE STRUCTURE 

Figure 27 

Variation: It is possible to install the peak rails independent of the roof stairs. However additional parts will be 

required. Two additional peak rail support posts (234092) and two additional support clips (234093) will be required 

to secure the ends of the tubes. Also, some means of stiffening these two posts against lateral failure will 

also be required. This could be accomplished with two braces (234504) attached to each post flange at 

roughly 90º to each other and secured to the roof ribs with support arm brackets (234518). 

EXTRA PARTS REQUIRED 

234092: SUPPORT POSTS - 2 

234093: SUPPORT CLIPS - 2 

234504: SUPPORT ARMS - 4 

234518: SUPPORT ARM BRACKETS - 4 

PROVIDE LATERAL SUPPORT 

TO POSTS AT ENTRY POINT 

Figure 28 

Page 27

PEAK RAIL HARDWARE USAGE 

All peak rail connections are made using 3/8” x 1” bolts and 3/8” nuts except for the following: 

– Safety tubes are secured to support posts and to the vertical handrail supports on the roof stairs by 5/16” U- 

bolts and 5/16” lock nuts 

234095 - Roof Peak Rail Package (15' to 27' Roofs) 


234091 Ring for 15' - 27' Bins 2 

234092 Support Post 5 

234097 Hardware Package 1 

234504 Support Arm 2 

234086 Post Extension 2 

234096 - Roof Peak Rail Packages (30' to 108' Roofs) 


234094 Ring for 30' - 108' Bins 2 

234092 Support Post 7 

234097 Hardware Package 1 

234504 Support Arm 2 

234086 Post Extension 2 

234097 - Roof Peak Rail Hardware Package 


235943 Bolt 3/8" x 1" (Bag of 50) 1 

234099 Bolt "U"-Round 5/16" 18 

235955 Nut - 3/8" 1 

900225 Nut - 5/16" Hex Nylon Lock 40 

234093 Roof Clip 7 

234102 Pipe Plug 4 

157042 1" Self Drillling Screw 10 

234518 Support Arm Bracket 2 

198934 Roof Stair Manual 1 

Page 28

Optional Peak Platform Assembly 

The peak platform is an option to the roof stairs and peak rails, and is to be assembled in conjunction with them. 

1. The peak platform support ring is located similar to the peak rail tubes that are provided with the peak rail 

assembly, only it is positioned towards the bottom of the peak rail support posts and roof stair handrail 

posts. The support ring is secured to the posts using the half-round clips (234114) and ¼” diameter 

self drilling screws. First bolt the half-round clips onto all of the posts with the supporting ends facing 

inward towards the peak ring. Securely seat the supporting 1.66” dia. tube into the half-round cradles and 

secure with a self drilling screw that is drilled in from the backside. 

DRILL IN SELF DRILLING 

SCREW THROUGH 

PILOT HOLE IN THE 

POSTS (ALL LOCATIONS) 

HALF ROUND 

CLIP (234114) 

SUPPORT RING 

Figure 29 

2. The peak platform deck pieces (234118) are evenly distributed around the peak ring as shown such that 

the amount of overlap between adjacent pieces is roughly even. The wider end is supported on the 

support ring, and the narrow end rests on the ribs of the roof sheets. To initiate the alignment, one deck 

piece should be centered on the top roof stair tread. There will be interference between the deck piece and 

the skid resistance indentations on the stair tread. The best way to overcome this interference is to shorten 

the peak platform deck piece enough to avoid the skid resistance indentations that are on the top surface of 

the stair tread. Secure the deck piece to the stair tread with at least two self drilling screws. 

SOME INTERFERENCE 

WITH THE SKID RESISTANCE 

INDENTATIONS ON THE STAIR 

TREAD WILL OCCUR IN THIS AREA 

Figure 30 

Page 29

3. Distribute the remaining deck pieces around the roof such that the amount of overlap between adjacent 

pieces is roughly equal. Align the deck pieces such that at least two of the ¼” pilot holes on the wide 

end are squarely aligned over the center of the support ring and secure with the self drilling screws. 

Figure 31 

DISTRIBURE AMOUNT 

OF OVERLAP AMOUNG 

DECK PIECES 

POSITION PILOT HOLES IN DECK 

PIECES DIRECTLY OVER SUPPORT 

TUBE AND SECURE WITH SELF- 

DRILLING SCREWS 

4. Position the toe board pieces (234119) such that they loop around the outside circumference of the deck 

pieces and bridge between the support posts. Overlap mating toe board pieces at the support post 

locations and secure to the support posts using self drilling screws. It may be required to shorten 

some of the toe board pieces to prevent unsightly overhang. 

SECURE WITH SELF-DRILLING 

SCREWS AT ALL POST LOCATIONS 

Figure 32 

POSITION TOE BOARD 

STRIPS SUCH THAT THEY 

ARE INSIDE THE OUTER 

EDGE OF THE PLATFORM 

PIECES 

Page 30

Variation: It is possible to install the peak rail and platform independent from the roof stairs. The two additional 

support posts and related parts as identified in the previous section will be required. There will be no need to 

shorten the one deck piece to avoid interference with the top roof stair tread. However, it will be necessary to 

provide a means of supporting the wide end of the one deck piece that would normally be supported by the stair 

tread. This can be done by bridging between the two support posts on either side of the entry point. Secure the 

deck piece to this support using the self drilling screws. 

ADDITIONAL 

SUPPORT POSTS 

Figure 33 

IT WILL BE NECESSARY 

TO BRIDGE THIS GAP TO 

SUPPORT THE PLATFORM 

DECK PIECE 

Peak Platform Hardware Usage 

All peak Platform connections are made using 3/8” x 1” bolts and nuts except for the following: 

− Insure support ring tubes are sitting fully in the half round clips (234114) and secure to the support posts 

using ¼” self drilling screws through the pilot hole in each support post 

− Secure platform deck pieces using ¼” self drilling screws 

− Secure toe boards using ¼” self drilling screws 

234115 - Peak Platform 15' - 27' Bins 


234112 Support Ring - Small 1 

234118 Platform Piece 12 

234119 Toe Board 3 

234117 Hardware 1 

234116 - Peak Platform 30' - 108' Bins 


234113 Support Ring - Large 1 

234118 Platform Piece 16 

234119 Toe Board 4 

234117 Hardware 1 

234117 Peak Platform Hardware Package 


234114 Support Ring Clip 9 

235943 Bolt - 3/8" x 1" (Bag of 50) 1 

235955 Hex Nut - 3/8" (Bag of 50) 1 

157042 1" Self Drilling Screw 100 

Page 31

Optional Roof Stair Block-Off Assembly 

The “Roof Stair Block-off Package” is an option that mates with a roof stair package when the 

roof stairs is not used in combination with a Westeel ladder package. Such would be the case if 

the roof stair was being accessed from an overhead conveyor, and there was no wall ladder. 

The “Stair Block-off Package” is intended to provide a barrier at the lower end of the roof stair to 

prevent somebody from stepping off into space. 

Some of the necessary parts are supplied with the roof stair package that forms the “Inspection 

Hatch Cage Assembly” (see applicable section). The balance of the parts are supplied as part 

of the “Roof Stair Block-off Package”. 

1. As shown in the diagram position one of the vertical support tubes (234069) such that it 

aligns with the inspection hatch roof sheet rib that is furthest away from the roof stair. 

The bend in the support tube bridges the eave of the roof sheets and aligns alongside the 

top wall sheet. Keep the support pushed up as high as possible. Using the holes in 

the support tube as guides, and keeping the support tube in a vertical orientation, 

drill 3/8” holes through the crest of the mating wall sheet corrugations and attach 

using 3/8” x 2 ½” bolts. Putting the sealing washers on the inside insures a water tight 

seal. 

USE SUPPORT ARM TO 

BRACE VERTICAL SUPPORT 

TUBE TO ROOF RIB (BOTH SIDES) 

ATTACH THIS VERTICAL 

SUPPORT TUBE FIRST IN-LINE 

WITH ROOF RIB BESIDE 

INSPECTION HATCH. 

POSITION SUPPORT 

ARMS EQUAL DISTANCE 

ALONG VERTICAL SUPPORT 

TUBES 

SECURE TO TOP 

WALL SHEET 

Figure 34 

SECURE SECOND VERTICAL 

TUBE TO STAIR TREAD FLANGE 

AT THIS LOCATION 

2. Attach four 1” diameter support arms (234504) to the vertical support tube, as illustrated 

using support arm clips (234517). Position the lowest just above the bend in the 

vertical support tube, position the highest towards the top, and the other two 

roughly equal distances apart. Attach a fifth support arm onto the upper portion of the 

vertical support tube in the same manner and brace down to the nearest roof rib, as 

shown. Secure the lower portion of the support arm with a support arm bracket (234518) 

that is secured to the roof rib. 

Page 32

3. Using the four support arms as guides, place them horizontally and position a second 

vertical support tube such that it attaches to the other end of the support arms using the 

support arm clips, bridges the eave of the roof panel and aligns alongside the top wall 

sheet. Secure in a similar manner to the first. 

4. When attaching the top support arm to the second vertical support tube, use the bolt and 

nut to secure the warning chain (234101). Hook the other end of the chain to a mating 

hole in the vertical hand rail support across the opening. 

HARDWARE ON UPPER 

SUPPORT ARM CLIP USED TO 

SECURE WARNING CHAIN 

Figure 36 

Figure 35 

5. The second vertical support tube should be positioned in close proximity to the bottom 

stair tread on the roof stair. Pick the location where the vertical support tube 

crosses the flange of the stair tread and drill a 3/8” hole through both. Secure 

using a 3/8” x 4 ½” fully threaded bolt (150475) that is triple nutted as shown. 

Secure the bolt to the vertical support tube with one nut, and sandwich the flange on the 

stair tread with the remaining two nuts. Adjust the relative position of the nuts and tighten 

to lock into position. 

VERTICAL SUPPORT 

TUBE (234069) 

Figure 37 

STAIR TREAD 

Page 33

6. Attach four more 1” diameter support arms to the second vertical support tube in a similar 

manner to # 2 above. Using these as guides, position and secure the third and last 

vertical support tube as per # 3 above. Use the last support arm to brace the third 

vertical support tube to the roof rib as per # 2 above. 

7. Prevent the support arm clips from sliding 

down the vertical support tubes by 

securing with the self drilling screws 

provided (900461). 

SELF DRILLING SCREW 

(900461) SECURES SUPPORT 

ARM CLIP 

Figure 38 

8. Secure the plastic caps (234559) to the vertical support arm tubes. 

Roof Stair Block-Off Package Hardware Usage (Note: Required hardware also supplied with 

Roof Stair Packages): 

All Roof Stair Block-Off Package connections are made using 3/8” x 1” bolts and 3/8” nuts 

except for the following connections. 

− Vertical Support Tubes are secured to the grain bin wall sheets using 3/8” x 2 ½” bolts 

and nuts 

− Secure middle Vertical Support Tube to the bottom Stair Tread using a 3/8” x 4 ½” fully 

threaded bolt and triple nutting as shown in the instructions. 

− Prevent the support arms from sliding down by securing the support arm clips with self 

drilling screws. 

Roof Stair Block-Off Package (234049) 


234069 Vertical Support Tube 2 

234504 Support Arms 8 

234517 Support Arm Clips 13 

234518 Support Arm Bracket 2 

Page 34

CATWALK ACCESS 

Catwalks can be accessed from a roof stair with the aid of a plate fabricated as shown. The plate 

can be bolted to the back off any stair tread on the roof stair and then used to support the bottom 

of a standard ladder section (234500) which could then tie in with an access point on the catwalk. 

Ladder sections must be supported structurally every 44”. 

Page 35

APPENDIX I – ROOF STAIR PARTS IDENTIFICATION 

“L” 

234050 – Handrail Post 

Shown Right Stringer, Left is mirrored. 

P/N Description "L" 

234052 Stringer - 8 Tread Left 104.4 

234053 Stringer - 8 Tread Right 104.4 







“L” 


234060 Middle Rail - 5 Treads 55.1 



234063 Middle Rail – 8 Treads 95 

234071 Middle Rail – 5 Treads Short 37.1 



234074 Middle Rail – 8 Treads Short 79 

234064 – Stair Tread 

“L” 


234065 Handrail - 5 Treads 55.1 



234068 Handrail – 8 Treads 95 

234087 Handrail – 5 Treads Short 37.1 



234090 Handrail - 8 Treads Short 79 

234069 – Vertical Support Tube 

Page 36

APPENDIX – ROOF STAIR PARTS IDENTIFICATION 

234070 – “Z” Support 4” 

234098 – Single Rung Ladder 

Extension 

234100 – Support Arm 1 ¼” Dia 

234103 – Double Rung Ladder 

Extension 

234504 – Support Arm 1” Dia 

234104 – “Z” Support 7 ⅞” 

234517 – Support Arm Clip 

Page 37

APPENDIX II – PEAK RAIL AND PLATFORM PARTS IDENTIFICATION 

234086 – Post Extension 

234092 – Support Post 

234093 – Roof Clip 

234102 – Pipe Plug 

234118 – Platform Piece 

234114 – Support Ring Clip 

Page 38

APPENDIX II – PEAK RAIL AND PLATFORM PARTS IDENTIFICATION 

96 

234119 – Platform Toe Board 

234518 – Support Arm Bracket 

234091 – Peak Rail Tube 

85” diameter (1.25” OD Tube) 234094 – Peak Rail Tube 

109” diameter (1.25“ OD Tube) 

234112 – Peak Platform Support Ring 

Small - 85” diameter (1.66” OD Tube) 

234113 – Peak Platform Support Ring 

Large - 109” diameter (1.66” OD Tube) 

Page 39

450 Desautels, P.O. Box 792 

Winnipeg, Manitoba CANADA R3C 2N5 

Phone: 204-233-7133 Fax: 204-235-0796 

www.westeel.com 

Westeel Division of Vicwest Corporation Printed in Canada

198934 Roof Stairs INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS.pdf - Westeel

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