Many commercial buildings have large, flat roofs. Since this space goes largely unused, it is a common practice to install air conditioning compressors and other building equipment there, where it is relatively safe and out of the way. Yet, how this equipment is secured to the roof makes a real difference, as any commercial roof company can explain. To adequately secure equipment to a flat roof, while protecting the surface, commercial roofing services recommend always using hurricane stands.

Improper Equipment Securement on Flat Roofs

Equipment like HVAC units are frequently secured to a flat roof in one of three ways:  1) they are secured to wood or metal beams, or wooden blocks on the roof; 2) they are secured to concrete pads or pavers; or 3) they are put directly on the roof surface. In all of these cases, not only does this not truly provide proper securement of this equipment, but it promotes damage to the roof. Anything sitting on a flat roof  that is heavy will, over time, affect the surrounding area and create damage that will eventually require expensive repairs by roofing services. Setting equipment onto, or close to the roof surface can also affect how efficiently this equipment functions. Even though they are not necessary in all regions, hurricane stands installed by an experienced commercial roof company can alleviate these problems.

What Are Hurricane Stands?

Hurricane stands are steel framework used to raise equipment off the surface of the roof while still providing securement that can withstand extremely high winds. They are constructed with four feet that bolt neatly to the roof and can be sealed to prevent roof damage. Next a framework is constructed for equipment to be set on. The equipment is secured to the framework, which elevates it approximately two feet off the surface of the roof. This type of securement is hurricane proof, as high winds will blow under and around the unit, preventing equipment from being blown off the roof.

Why Are Hurricane Stands So Important?

Hurricane stands are required securement in some hurricane prone areas like Texas, for any equipment installed on a flat roof. When properly installed by commercial roofing services, they also provide other important advantages that can help preserve a flat roof. The only contact points on the roof are the bolted, sealed feet of the stand. This is an installation which greatly reduces the chance of damage to the roof surface by any support material, or the equipment itself.

Because equipment is elevated off the surface of the roof, it also has greater ventilation that promotes efficient operation. Equipment also has improved drainage, which helps to prevent corrosion under the unit and the damage that can occur on the roof because of that drainage and corrosion. These stands also provide an easy means for roof maintenance and repairs around equipment. Hurricane stands, installed by an expert roof company, are the best protection for a flat roof whenever any kind of equipment must be stored on top of it.

Hurricane stands offer more than just security, and are designed to prevent roof equipment from being blown away in strong winds. When correctly installed by experienced roofing services, these equipment stands also provide essential protection for the surface of the roof, as well as the equipment sitting on it. Before putting any type of HVAC or other such equipment on a flat roof, always call a roof company to install the right hurricane stand to secure it, and protect the roof. Whether a building is in a hurricane zone or not, hurricane equipment stands are a worthwhile investment!

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