One system. Two movements. 

  • Closed 

    The Hatch sits across the ceiling opening when the Ladder is folded away.

  • Opening 

    As the Ladder is deployed, the Bi-Folding Hatch folds with the system

  • Open for access

    The Hatch folds clear of the opening so the upper level can be accessed.

Designed specifically for the Bcompact Prefab Ladder range 

The Bi-Folding Hatch has been developed exclusively for Bcompact Prefab Folding Ladders. It is not a universal hatch system and is not intended for use with other access products.

Designed for indoor use only. The Hatch provides a physical closure across the ceiling opening but is not insulated, airtight or watertight. It is not suitable for outdoor or weather-exposed installations.

Meet the Ladder Behind the Hatch 

Unlike traditional pull-down attic ladders, the Bcompact Prefab Ladder folds sideways, flat against its Attachment Wall, keeping valuable floor space clear when not in use.

Crafted from engineered bamboo and manufactured in Australia, each Ladder features our patented Full-Fold design, a fixed 65° angle and consistent 300mm / 11.81" step rise.

Available in five standard sizes, from 2.1m / 82.7" to 3.3m / 129.9", with optional Stand-Off Handrail.

The Bi-Folding Hatch has been designed specifically to work with this folding system.

Explore the Prefab Ladder Range

Check your opening before ordering 

The Bi-Folding Hatch has specific opening and installation requirements. Check the dimensions and conditions below before ordering, particularly if your ceiling opening already exists.

  • Ceiling opening 

    Recommend a ceiling opening of at least 1150×690mm / 45.3×27.2in to allow installation tolerance. For the neatest result, the opening should be flush with the Attachment Wall.

  • Ceiling thickness 

    The ideal ceiling thickness is 165-300mm / 6.5–11.8in. Thinner ceilings may require the Hatch frame pieces to be trimmed. Ceilings over 300mm / 11.8in may reduce head clearance when using the Ladder.

  • Upper Floor Clearance

    When the Ladder is folded away, it requires:

    • Without Handrail: 535 mm / 21.1"
    • With Handrail: 1165 mm / 45.9"

    When the Ladder is deployed, the Bi-Folding Hatch opens to the opposite side and requires a minimum of 310 mm / 11.8" clearance.

    Ensure these areas are free from walls, beams and other obstructions.

  • Installation alignment 

    The Hatch and Ladder should be installed as square as possible for correct opening and closing. Packers or spacers may be required depending on the size, squareness and tolerance of the ceiling opening as well as the supporting attachment wall.
Fact Sheet

What the Hatch does and doesn’t do 

The Bi-Folding Hatch is designed to close the ceiling opening and integrate with the movement of the Prefab Ladder. It is important to understand what the system is designed to do, and where its limitations are.

  • What it provides 

    Closes the ceiling opening when the Ladder is folded away.
    Folds with the Prefab Ladder during operation.
    Designed specifically for eligible Bcompact Prefab Ladders.
    Creates a cleaner, more finished appearance around the access opening.
    Can be ordered with a new Prefab Ladder.
    Can potentially be retrofitted to eligible existing installations.

  • Important limitations

    The Bi-Folding Hatch is designed for indoor use only.
    It is not insulated and does not create an airtight or weatherproof seal.
    It is not suitable for outdoor, semi-outdoor or exposed applications.
    It should not be relied upon as a weather seal or thermal barrier.
    It is not suitable for every ceiling or opening configuration.
    It must be installed within the approved dimensional and clearance requirements.
    Compatibility must be confirmed before retrofitting to an existing installation.

Choose Your Prefab Ladder 

Frequently asked questions 

Which Bcompact products is the Bi-Folding Hatch compatible with?

The Bi-Folding Hatch is only compatible with the Bcompact Prefab Ladder range. It is not currently offered for Custom Folding Stairs or Custom Folding Ladders.

Can I install the Bi-Folding Hatch myself?

Yes, although installing the Bi-Folding Hatch is more involved than installing the Prefab Ladder on its own.

A competent DIYer with good carpentry skills should be able to complete the installation. As a general guide, if you are comfortable accurately installing and levelling something such as a door frame or window frame, the Hatch installation should be within your capabilities.

Correct alignment is important to ensure the Hatch opens and closes smoothly with the Ladder, so careful measuring, squaring and adjustment during installation are required.

Detailed installation instructions are provided. If you are unsure, we recommend using a carpenter, builder or experienced handyperson.

Can I add a Bi-Folding Hatch to an existing Prefab Ladder?

Yes. It can be retrofitted to an existing Prefab Ladder provided the Ladder was installed correctly and has not been modified beyond Bcompact’s approved adjustment parameters. Compatibility should be confirmed before ordering.

 Email sales@bcompact.com

Can the Bi-Folding Hatch be customised?

No. Like the Prefab Ladder range, the Bi-Folding Hatch is a prefabricated product and cannot be customised.

Is the Bi-Folding Hatch airtight or watertight?

No. The design incorporates a fitted brush seal (aluminium channel brush seal) which closes the ceiling opening around the Prefab Ladder, but it does not create an airtight or watertight seal and is not designed for wet areas or use as an external roof hatch. 

Is the Bi-Folding Hatch insulated?

The Bi-Folding Hatch is not yet tested or certified for thermal rating. When closed, it creates a barrier primarily from 15mm/0.6in engineered bamboo ply. A brush seal helps to create a dust barrier.

Can I walk or stand on the Bi-Folding Hatch?

No. The Bi-Folding Hatch must not be treated as a structural or walkable floor surface. 

What ceiling opening size is required?

The assembled Hatch measures 1100 × 640mm / 43.3 × 25.2in. We recommend a ceiling cutout of at least 1150 × 690mm / 45.3 × 27.2in, providing approximately 50mm / 2in of tolerance in both directions. Upper Floor clearance of minimum 300mm/11.8" For the neatest result, the opening should be flush with the Attachment Wall. Additional tolerance may be required if the opening is significantly out of square or not parallel.

What ceiling thickness is suitable?

The ideal ceiling thickness is 165–300mm/ 6.5–11.8in. For ceilings under 165mm / 6.5in, the four frame pieces can be trimmed to suit the ceiling thickness. For ceilings over 300mm / 11.8in, head clearance may be reduced when using the Prefab Ladder. Please contact Bcompact if your installation falls outside the ideal range.

Are wall fasteners included?

No. Fasteners used to attach the Bi-Folding Hatch to the wall are not included because the correct type and length depend on the installation substrate and opening conditions. An ideal installation typically requires 16 Hatch fixing screws, in addition to the separate fasteners required for the Prefab Ladder. Detailed fastener recommendations are provided in the installation information.

Ready to add a   Bi-Folding Hatch? 

If you’re ordering a new Bcompact Prefab Ladder, simply select the Bi-Folding Hatch option when choosing your Ladder configuration.

Already own a Bcompact Prefab Ladder? The Hatch may be retrofitted to eligible existing installations. Because opening dimensions and installation conditions vary, retrofit compatibility must be confirmed by our team before ordering.

For retrofit enquiries, email sales@bcompact.com with details of your existing installation.

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