Architectural
Architectural applications are almost always outdoors, overhead, and difficult to reach once installed — which makes getting the specification right the first time far more important than in any other sector. Wind load frequently exceeds the weight of the panel itself.
Typical force
200–1000N
per spring
Typical stroke
150–400mm
travel required
Material
Stainless 316
Permanently weather-exposed and often effectively unserviceable once the building is finished — the extra corrosion margin is worth the cost.
Common applications
| Application | Typical force | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skylight / roof window | 300–700 N per spring | Wind uplift can double the effective load — size generously |
| Ventilation hatch | 200–500 N per spring | Often on an automated actuator; the spring assists rather than lifts |
| Roof access hatch | 400–1000 N per spring | Must hold open reliably against wind while someone climbs through |
| Awning / canopy panel | 250–600 N per spring | Large surface area makes wind the governing load case |
What goes wrong
Specification mistakes we see most often in architectural work.
- Wind load usually governs, not panel weight. Calculate for the panel, then confirm against the local wind loading for the installation.
- These installations are hard to service once the building is complete — specify stainless 316 and the longest cycle life available.
- A roof access hatch that must hold open in wind while someone climbs through it is a safety application: use a lockable spring.
Products for architectural
Working on architectural?
Tell us the panel dimensions and the environment. We will size the spring, specify the right material, and come back within 1 business day.