Bulkhead doors

Bulkhead doors

 

Description A bulkhead door is a horizontal or inclined door that provides access to an area under the home or to a storage area such as a cellar. These doors are sometimes referred to by the brand name Bilco. Modern bulkhead doors are often made from aluminum or steel. Older doors are often made from wood. Bulkhead doors often consist of two side-hinged doors, but may be a single top-hinged door.


Two side by side images of bulkhead doors. The caption below reads "New factory-built metal bulkhead door (left). Site-built wood bulkhead door (right). Left picture courtesy of The Bilco Company.


Installation Installation varies widely depending on the opening size, the area to which the door provides access, and the age of the door. Manufactured bulkhead doors should be installed according to manufacturer’s instructions.