Rooftop HVAC units can be found in many commercial buildings. While an HVAC unit is necessary, the units and the work done on them can leave your roof damaged. Below you will see how HVAC units can hurt your roof.
Tech Issues
HVAC technicians and roofers have different knowledge and interests. HVAC technicians can unintentionally cause significant damage to a roof while working on the unit. With a bulky unit and heavy tools, it is easy to see how damage can be done to the roof. To combat this, you should place walkpads around the HVAC unit and have a professional roofer supervise the process.
Condensation
When an HVAC unit is running it produces condensation which must go somewhere. The condensation builds up and forms a pond of water. The ponding collects debris and grows mold which will shorten the life of your roof. The solution for this is simple – installing interior discharge lines or directing the water to the closest roof drain. While a properly working HVAC unit will vaporize the water, older, faulty units can produce excess condensation.
Adding Units
It is much easier to install HVAC units during the construction phase as opposed to after a building is built. During the construction phase tubing, curbs, and drainage lines can be installed. When adding units wind uplift can occur at the separation site and cause tears in the roof’s membrane. Additionally, the extra weight added to the roofs from the units never helps the roof’s longevity.