Project Focus: Military Rooftop Walkway System

Project Focus: Military Rooftop Walkway System

OverviewUnistrut Hawaii engineered and installed a 165-foot-long, 5-foot-wide rooftop walkway system for a military facility requiring safe access to critical communication equipment. Technicians needed a durable, load friendly path that allowed them to move heavy service tools without damaging the roof membrane. In addition, the system had to meet strict 130 mph wind load requirements and perform reliably in Hawaii’s seismic conditions. The final installation includes a long-span walkway with two platform areas, engineered for stability, safety, and long-term field performance.

Design Criteria

1. Protect the Roof Membrane
   The communication facility prohibited roof penetration and required a system that prevented point loads or pressure from heavy service carts and tools.
2. Meet 130-MPH Wind Load Requirements
   The walkway needed to withstand high coastal wind conditions and maintain stability during severe weather.
3. Provide Safe Access for Heavy Service Equipment
   A wide, stable, slip resistant walking surface was required to support technicians and rolling equipment.
4. Use Materials Built for Harsh Outdoor Conditions
   Components needed exceptional corrosion resistance to endure Hawaii’s salt air environment and ensure long service life.

Design Solutions

1. Greenlink Engineering Stanchion Footings
   The rooftop footings used in this project were supplied by Greenlink Engineering. These footings were installed using a full-coverage adhesive sealant, which allowed them to:
   • Bond directly to the roof membrane
   • Distribute loads evenly
   • Remain secure without roof penetrations
   • Resist uplift forces under 130-mph wind conditions
   • Perform reliably during seismic events
2. Elevated Walkway Using Unistrut Grating
   A 165’ x 5’ grating walkway provided a strong, slip resistant access route with proper drainage. The walkway spanned the roof with two platforms—one at each end—offering safe staging areas for technicians servicing communication equipment.
3. Unistrut Defender Series Channel
   The rails and frame were built using Unistrut Defender Series channel, delivering corrosion protection far superior to hot dip galvanized steel.Key performance advantages include:
   • Excellent oxidation and corrosion resistance
   • Extended life in coastal environments
   • Lower long-term maintenance demands
   • Greater durability under frequent use
4. 4. Fully Engineered Non Penetrating System
   All supports were designed to protect the roof while delivering the structural reliability required by a military facility, meeting wind load and seismic criteria.

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Result

The completed system gives the military facility a safe, durable, and non penetrating rooftop access pathway engineered for Hawaii’s demanding conditions. With Greenlink stanchion footings, Defender Series framing, and a long span Unistrut grating walkway, the installation provides:

• Secure access to essential communication equipment
• A roof-safe, load-distributing support structure
• High reliability under elevated wind and seismic forces
• Long-term corrosion resistance and low maintenance

Unistrut Hawaii delivered a fully engineered solution that enhances technician safety while protecting the facility’s roof and critical infrastructure.