Beckson Flush Hatch Installation Instructions
HT SERIES HATCHES - Installation Recommendations
Please read the following recommendations for the installer thoroughly and carefully. Beckson will not be held responsible for installer error. For special installations seek additional information and/or professional help.
Location - Determine the location for your hatch
and
check for adequate room for operation. Be
sure to check the area below or behind where
the hatch is to be installed for possible
conflicts.
Tools - Pencil, utility knife, single edged
razorblade,
saber saw, drill, 3/8" drill bit (to
start saw cut), small drill for pilot holes,
rough file, silicone sealant, and #10 fasteners.
Hatch may be installed with counter-sunk
#10 screws or bolts. Your choice will determine
the drill size required for the fastener
holes. Determine the proper length of the
fasteners by adding 1/4" (screws) or
1/2" (bolts) to the deck or wall thickness.
Cutout - Template - Remove the hatch cover by
opening
the hatch 180 degrees and applying pressure
on the hatch cover in the fully open position.
The cover should pop off the connecting hinges.
Be careful not to twist the cover during
removal, which could result in breaking the
hinges. Once the cover is removed, place
the mounting ring in the installation location
and scribe inside the hatch to initiate the
main hole cut template. Remove the hatch
and scribe an outer line 1/4" outside
the first. Verify again that there are no
conflicts to the installation area such as
electrical wire, structural supports, etc.
Drill a pilot hole between the two lines
and then open the hole with the 3/8"
drill. Insert your saber saw and make your
hole cut by "taking out" the outside
line with the saw. Check the cutout with
the hatch itself for proper fit. The cutout
needs to allow room for sealant around the
hatch to provide a proper sealing area and
also act as a flexible gasket for changes
in temperature.
Drilling Fastener Holes - Center the mounting ring
in the cutout
and drill pilot holes for the fasteners.
Remove the mounting ring and reattach the
cover by snapping back into place.Next open
the fastener holes with the appropriate drill
bit for the fasteners that you have chosen.
Tip for Easy Cleanup - Set the hatch in place
without sealant
or fasteners. Use a damp sponge with a small
amount of liquid soap, wrung dry, and apply
around the hatch where excess sealant may
squeeze out during installation.
Sealant - Beckson recommends using only slilicone
sealant. Liberally apply sealant on the underside
of the mounting ring and around the outside
of the spigot (the flange through the mounting
hole) and around the fastener holes. Put
the hatch in place and align with drilled
fastener holes. Fasten the hatch. Tighten
until there are one to two turns left, then
stop. Do not remove excess sealant at this
time. Allow sealant to set. See recommended
curing time per manufacturer's instructions.
After sealant has cured turn fasteners one
last turn. Do not overtighten.
Cleanup - Carefully trim excess sealant that may
have squeezed out during installation with
a single edged razor blade. Perform final
cleanup with a wet sponge. Close hatch and
latch.
Thank you and congratulations on your purchase
and successful installation of your new Beckson
Hatch.