Not long ago my wife and I had the opportunity to go to dinner with a couple we had recently met. Among the small talk and getting to know one another the topic of work and jobs came up. The husband briefly explained that he works as a healthcare recruiter for some local hospitals. It was now my turn. I got about halfway through my introduction/sales pitch about rooftop supports when I caught that glazed look and I could tell the vegetables on his plate started getting more of his attention. To be fair, the asparagus looked good. Now I’m fully aware that rooftop supports might not be the first thing on a builder’s, a building owner or a facility manager’s mind either. However, these essential products play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and functionality of a building’s roof. Whether it’s HVAC units, utility piping, solar panels, or communication equipment, properly designed and installed rooftop supports are vital for both safety and performance. In this blog post, we’ll dive into what rooftop equipment supports are, why they are important, and how they contribute to the longevity of the building.
What Are Rooftop Equipment Supports?
Rooftop equipment supports are specifically designed to support and secure equipment placed on the roof of a building. These supports are designed to keep equipment like air conditioning units, generators, and utility piping off the roof’s surface, distributing their weight evenly across the structure. The primary goal is to ensure that the equipment is securely mounted, preventing damage to both the equipment and the roof. Support systems can be customized for a variety of rooftop applications and include:
-HVAC Equipment Supports: Typically used to support heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
-Solar Panel Racking Systems: Elevated supports that ensure solar panels are positioned at the optimal angle for energy collection.
-Utility Piping Supports: Used to support and secure gas lines, water lines, refrigeration lines, conduit, and other rooftop piping.
– Mechanical Equipment Supports: Used for equipment such as water tanks, exhaust fans, and other mechanical systems.
Why Are Rooftop Equipment Supports Important?
1. Protecting the Roof Structure
The roof is a crucial part of a building’s integrity. When equipment is placed directly on the rooftop or on incorrect supports, the weight and vibration can cause significant wear and tear over time, potentially leading to leaks, cracks, or even structural damage. Rooftop supports help mitigate this risk by elevating the equipment, reducing its impact on the roof membrane and ensuring proper load distribution.
2. Preventing Water Damage and Drainage Issues
When equipment is placed directly on the roof or on incorrect supports, it can obstruct drainage paths, leading to water pooling and potential leaks. Rooftop supports raise the equipment off the roof’s surface, allowing water to flow freely and reducing the risk of water damage. This is particularly important in regions that experience heavy rain or snow, as blocked drainage can cause significant long-term issues.
3. Enhancing Equipment Longevity
Just as a building’s roof is vulnerable to environmental elements, so is the equipment placed upon it. By elevating equipment with a proper support system, you help protect the equipment from moisture, debris, and direct exposure to the elements, all of which can lead to corrosion, rust, or premature wear. Proper support systems extend the lifespan of both the equipment and the roof, ultimately saving money on repairs and replacements.
4. Improving Safety
One of the most important functions of rooftop equipment supports is ensuring the safety of workers who may need to perform maintenance or repairs on the equipment. A well-designed support system ensures that equipment is stable and securely anchored, preventing accidents or equipment failures. Moreover, elevating equipment reduces the risks associated with workers needing to access and navigate the roof, which can be dangerous without the proper safeguards.
5. Maximizing Energy Efficiency
Proper placement of equipment on the roof, such as HVAC systems or solar panels, can improve their performance. For example, solar panels positioned at the correct angle and orientation capture more sunlight, leading to better energy efficiency. Likewise, HVAC units that are raised above the roof allow for better airflow and operation, contributing to energy savings.
6. Compliance with Codes and Regulations
In many jurisdictions, building codes and regulations require that rooftop equipment be properly supported to ensure structural integrity and safety. These codes often outline how equipment should be mounted, how much weight can be placed on the roof, and what kind of supports are required. Ensuring your equipment is properly supported helps you stay compliant with local regulations and avoid fines or legal issues down the line.
Key Considerations When Choosing Rooftop Equipment Supports
To ensure that rooftop equipment supports function effectively, it’s essential to consider several factors during the design and installation process:
– Load-Bearing Capacity: Ensure the support system is designed to handle the weight of the equipment, including any added stresses such as wind or seismic loads.
– Roof Type and Condition: Different roofs (i.e., flat roofs, sloped roofs, membrane roofs) may require specific types of supports. The condition of the roof is also important; for example, older roofs may require reinforcement before additional weight is added.
– Accessibility and Maintenance: Choose support systems that allow for easy access to the equipment for routine maintenance, inspections, and repairs. This reduces the risk of accidents and helps prolong the life of both the equipment and the roof.
– Environmental Considerations: Depending on your geographic location, the equipment support system should be able to withstand extreme weather conditions such as high winds, snow loads, or heat.
– Flexibility and Adjustability: If your building has future expansion plans, consider support systems that are adaptable and adjustable. This way, you can easily add or adjust equipment without major structural changes.
Conclusion
Rooftop equipment supports are more than just an afterthought in building design—they are an essential component of roof and equipment management. By distributing weight evenly, protecting against moisture and debris, ensuring safety, and improving energy efficiency, they contribute significantly to the longevity of both the roof and the equipment. When selecting rooftop supports, make sure they are designed to meet your building’s specific needs, climate conditions, and safety regulations. Investing in quality equipment supports now can help you avoid costly repairs and downtime in the future, while also ensuring the continued performance and safety of your building’s rooftop systems.
