Properly Supporting Your Rooftop Equipment Is Crucial
When looking to build an equipment support, there are many factors that need to be taken into consideration including roofing material, location, weight capacities, wind loads, seismic activity and more. When these factors are not taken into consideration, equipment support nightmares will occur. Below is a brief rundown of the top 3 things you should know when installing your rooftop equipment supports.
NEVER Use Lumber to Build an Equipment Support
Although lumber may be inexpensive and can be easily purchased from any local hardware store, lumber will only lead to headaches and failures in your equipment supports. When exposed to the elements, including sunlight and moisture, lumber will deteriorate causing weaknesses in your support. Additionally, the hardware used in conjunction with the lumber will also begin to rust, further compromising the stability of your equipment support. On top of that, lumber is often too light of a foundation when exposed to high wind loads, seismic activity or pipe movement. The shifting of your entire equipment support jeopardizes the safety of your rooftop equipment.
ALWAYS Check For Roof Weight Capacity and Insulation
Knowing how your rooftop is insulated and how much weight your rooftop surface can hold is important when installing an equipment support. This needs to be taken into consideration so you know how far apart you need to space the supports without causing damage to your roof. Too few supports on weaker roofs or improperly installed supports can cause rooftop equipment to penetrate the surface, creating the need for costly repairs. If your rooftop support system does penetrate the surface and goes unnoticed, numerous problems can also arise including water leakage, mold, and compromises to the roof’s structural integrity.
Wind Forces NEED to be Taken Into Consideration
Even when wind forces aren’t specified in the project document, you still need to take them into consideration. Failing to address this area of concern can lead to expensive repair costs due to the movement of your equipment support. In serious cases, rooftop equipment can be dislodged from the roof and can become a potential hazard to surrounding structures and pedestrians below.
Rooftop Support Systems is Here to Help
Our Rooftop Support Systems (RTS) division offers a unique line of rooftop equipment supports, roof duct supports, pipe supports, maintenance platforms, crossover stairs and more. We have everything you need to meet your project needs. No job is too big or too small for our project managers and estimators. We’ll make sure your equipment support meets all safety requirements and securely supports your expensive rooftop equipment. Find out more information on the products and services we offer or Request a Quote.
