A hoisting roof (Dutch ‘hijsdak’) is a roof or roof overhang fitted with a device for lifting loads. Under the projecting part of the roof hangs a hoisting mechanism, so goods can be lifted up without getting wet.
Where is it found?
The hoisting roof is best known from agricultural buildings:
- Farms and barns — to lift hay, straw and animal feed into the loft or hayloft
- Haystacks — where the overhang gives shelter while hoisting
- Warehouses — in towns the same principle appears as a hoisting beam with a pulley above the façade
The projecting roof keeps the load and the loading opening dry and protects against driving rain.
How does it work?
- A hoisting beam, pulley or block-and-tackle sits at the top of the overhang
- The load passes inside through a hoisting hatch in the façade or roof
- Formerly by hand or with a hoisting wheel, today sometimes with an electric hoist
Points of attention
- The hoisting beam and its fixing must carry the load safely; have this checked on older buildings
- The overhang must project far enough to keep the load clear of the façade
Related terms
- Hoisting beam
- Hoisting hatch
- Roof overhang
- Hay barn
- Roof shape
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