Combine an insulated glass roof with the freedom to open the space to the sky during Sukkot. Bentech offers bespoke solutions with manual winch or crank operation, without an electric motor.
Retractable weather protection for Sukkot
During the Jewish festival of Sukkot, a sukkah uses a special roof of plant material, schach, beneath the open sky. A retractable glass roof can provide weather protection above this structure. Sliding the glazing away creates an open area to the sky above the intended space. Glass does not replace schach.
Manual winch or crank operation — no electricity needed
The roof can be opened by hand using a winch or crank, without an electric motor or power supply. We plan the control position with you to make operation convenient and accessible for your space. Agree how and when the roof may be operated during the festival with your congregation’s rabbi.
The clear opening is what matters
The actual opening is relevant, rather than the transparency of the glass. We plan how the panels slide away and show where glazing, beams and other fixed parts remain. The intended area can then be assessed according to its true unobstructed opening to the sky.
- The size and position of the opening are tailored to the project.
- Retracted panels and remaining beams are included in the planning.
- The position and supports for schach are coordinated with the rest of the structure.
- An insulated roof can allow the space to be used at other times of year, depending on the rest of the room’s construction.
Have your rabbi assess the design
Involve your congregation’s rabbi or your synagogue’s religious adviser early in the planning. Ask whether the proposed solution can be approved as kosher for your use during Sukkot. The assessment should cover schach, walls, remaining roof components, beams and the way the roof is operated. Bentech provides technical information; religious approval is given by your rabbi. We do not provide a general kosher certification for the roof system.
Experience in New York and international projects
We have installed a roof for this purpose at a synagogue in New York and exported roofs for similar use to other countries. Each project is adapted to the building and the requirements set by the customer and congregation’s rabbi.
Planning a roof for Sukkot?
Tell us about your location, dimensions and how you want to use the space. We can explore a solution with insulated retractable glazing and manual winch or crank operation. Call us on +46 760 36 76 10 or email info@bentech.se.