Unique Challenges of Installing an HVAC Unit on a Flat Roof

While it’s not often that you see a flat roofing system in a residential area, this is the type of roofing style that’s most often preferred for commercial buildings. There is no “perfect” roofing style, however, and flat roofs bring their own unique brand of concerns, especially if you intend to install a commercial HVAC system in the building.

With that in mind, what exactly are the challenges that come part and parcel with installing an HVAC system atop a flat roof? Experts from Dittmer Air and Heat, the top provider of commercial and restaurant refrigeration services in the area, shares some of them below.

Condensation

HVAC systems create condensation around the unit. When this happens on a flat roof, the resulting moisture has nowhere to go and is forced to condense on the roof or below the unit. The water can then stagnate, as a flat roof allows for no natural drainage. When this happens, the condensation can lead to mold and mildew growth, among other things.

Leaks

Ponding water, if left neglected, can degrade any flat roof’s membrane. Water also adds to the weight the roof has to bear, and if the commercial roof isn’t rated for the additional weight, it may buckle under the stress of the combined weight of the unit and the ponding water. This results in the membrane being punctured, which causes leaks that lead to excessive moisture inside the building, requiring indoor air quality testing.

Improper Installation

Botched or hasty installation of an HVAC unit can also cause damage to your roof, especially if the flashing isn’t properly sealed. Incorrect installation of the heating and cooling unit may cause more condensation than normal, and as a result it will likely require more than the usual amount of repairs to fix it. Should this happen, expect leaks to occur within the building.

The only way to avoid such issues is to hire veteran HVAC air conditioner repair pros like Dittmer Air and Heat. We can install your HVAC system correctly the first time so your flat roofing system doesn’t have to suffer. To learn more, contact us today at (321) 408-5090. You may also fill out our contact form to request a consultation. We serve Cocoa, FL, and other nearby areas.