The roof of the commercial building down the street from you is a busy place. From the ground, it might look like there’s nothing up there but looks can be deceiving. HVAC units, vents, stove pipes, and possibly skylights populate the flat surface. None of these features sit on the roof alone.
Every commercial roof has curbs under or around the features to protect the roof and the features surrounding it.
So, what is a roof curb? A roof curb is a structure that a roof feature can sit on or a structure that surrounds a feature. They are custom-built for each feature they support and protect.
Roof curbs can be built from various materials. Galvanized steel is a popular choice due to its strength and durability. Fiberglass and aluminum are also good options, as is a combination of these.
What is the Function of a Roof Curb?
A commercial roof, and anything on it, is exposed to all types of weather, including high winds, extreme temperatures, and harsh ultraviolet rays from the sun. Roof curbs act as a stabilizer so the feature, such as an HVAC unit, isn’t blown over during a spring storm. Stabilization is important to secure the unit and ensure that it can function even in challenging conditions.
Another function of a roof curb is to act as an insulator. This works alongside a basic roofing function of maintaining a consistent temperature inside the building. The curb adds a layer of protection against the elements that otherwise could damage the feature, such as a skylight.
The roof curb isn’t only needed for the feature, it stabilizes, but also for the roof itself. It acts as a barrier and helps prevent cracks or other damage to the roof that could be caused by the feature being directly placed on the roof with nothing to keep it securely in place. So, roof curbs act as protectors for both the roof and the features on it.
What are Signs it Needs to be Replaced?
If a roof curb is damaged in any way, it can’t do its job efficiently and should be replaced. Even the strongest steel can get bent if a heavy enough object hits it, and when this happens, the roof curb can no longer perform correctly.
If you can see water damage along the inside or outside of a roof top structure, it could mean the roof curb has been compromised. The structure may need repairs before a new roof curb is installed.
Cracks or other damage to the structure may lead to gaps between it and the roof curb, which could be breeding grounds for mold and mildew. If you smell a musty odor around your rooftop features, you might have mildew problems. The roof curbs need to be replaced if this happens.
Why is it Important to Have a Commercial Roofing Contractor to Install and Repair it?
The type of material as well as the length, thickness, and width of the roof curb is customized according to what it is stabilizing. A roof curb for the HVAC unit isn’t the same as the ones surrounding the vents or exhaust fans.
Professional roofers have the knowledge and experience to work with any type of material correctly, so your rooftop features are stable and secure. This protects your roof and the various openings and units it supports.
Pros know what to look for during routine inspections and can do the repairs the right way the first time to keep your commercial roof from being damaged. You don’t want something as critical as your roof to be repaired by anyone other than the best.
Roofs are an investment that can last decades if maintained properly. The rooftop features are a vital part of the roof, and if they aren’t properly cared for, they can shorten the lifetime of your roof significantly. If you maintain quality roof curbs on your features, your roof can have a nice, long, healthy life.
Elite Commercial Roofing Solutions throughout Metro Detroit
MacDermott Roofing is an industry-leading roofing company that has been providing hassel-free commercial roofing services for more 50 years, including roofing support for mechanical contractors. Our highly skilled, OSHA-certified commercial roofing installers have expertise in all roofing systems including Duro-Last. If you are looking for a reliable roofing authority for your building, contact us today and get started with a No-Obligation Estimate!