If you’ve ever asked, “why are HVAC systems on the roof of your commercial building?” the simple answer is to save space. However, as a business owner or building manager, you should be aware of the logistical challenges it can present. Firstly, completing HVAC repairs may become an inconvenience. Secondly, the bulky units could impact your commercial roof too.
A commercial roofer can help you consider the impacts before completing a roof HVAC installation in Eugene. They also support you through ongoing maintenance. Still, it is hugely beneficial to understand the situation yourself. Here’s what you need to know.
The weight creates strain on the commercial roof
Commercial HVAC units aren’t light, especially when providing climate control for large buildings or service environments that can encounter extreme temperatures. If you are planning an installation, a commercial roofer can check the structural integrity of your commercial roof. They check to make sure your roof can actually handle the weightand impact. This could save you from a potential nightmare on installation.
In addition to the weight of the HVAC equiptment itself, you must consider the impact of foot traffic during installation, scheduled maintenance, and future repairs. Adding dedicated walkways to your commercial roof will subsequently help protect the roof membrane. This could help extend the life of the roof, minimize maintenance, and save materials and HVAC systems alike.
However, any professional commercial roofer or staff member that steps on the roof will need to use the walkways on top of the building at all times to avoid puncturing the roof membrane.
Faulty HVACs can lead to water damage on the building
Pooling water is one of the most common problems to hit HVAC systems on commercial roofing. It can occur for a number of reasons, including an improper installation that has cracked the commercial roof membrane. Alternatively, if the vaporizing system does not work correctly, it will cause pooling problems at the base of your HVAC unit. Left untreated, it can be catastrophic for the roof of your building.
Once the membrane splits, water leaks will start to take a toll on the commercial roof. Meanwhile, the added weight of pooling water can significantly impact the structure of the commercial roof and potentially pose problems like health risks to the people working below it. Regular inspections and maintenance from a professional commercial roofer are advised as always.
While problems with the unit are a possible explanation, it is far more likely to be a case of human error. As such, you must take extra care during HVAC installation and maintenance.
How to protect your commercial roof and HVAC systems
When working correctly, commercial HVAC systems will serve your building well without causing any damage or problems on your roof. However, that can very quickly change if you allow mistakes to appear – especially when living in Eugene, where the wetter season lasts for over half of the year.
Prevention is always the best form of protection. As such, working with an experienced, professional commercial roofer is always advised. They can identify the best positioning for a rooftop HVAC system, while also completing inspections and maintenance on existing units to protect the device and the building.
