RoofScreen Manufacturing Dedicated To Roof Leak Problem Solving

By Lad Wallace, C.O.O., RoofScreen Manufacturing

Lad Wallace

RoofScreen Manufacturing developed modular rooftop equipment screens to aid architects and contractors in the quest to improve building aesthetics. The company offers a variety of systems designed to mask unsightly rooftop equipment. RoofScreen often works directly with architects to match the aesthetics of the host building.

RoofScreen also offers solutions for problems caused by faulty screen systems installed without engineering and waterproof technologies.

Various alternative rooftop equipment screen systems create a number of problems, the worst of which can be leaks. With a unique design and patented system, RoofScreen is often called upon to deal with concerns not well addressed by other technologies, or to mitigate problems resulting from their use.

One traditional method of constructing rooftop equipment screens is with structural steel beams up through the roof. Pipes or bars are then welded into place between the beams to create the screen.

Any time you introduce the welding process, you run the clear risk of damaging the roofing material by burning a hole in it and causing a leak. These structural systems are immediately permanent fixtures; it is difficult and expensive to move or expand the system to accommodate any changes in rooftop equipment.

	Shown above, a sleeper curb is installed in the roof with the roof screen framing attached on top. This type of assembly can interrupt the flow of water to roof drains and result in premature deterioration of the roof membrane. Shown below is the RoofScreen method where a 6-1/4" x 6-1/4" attachment point is created through the roof and into the roof framing. The screen assembly is then connected to that attachment point. Click images to enlarge.

RoofScreen systems are installed without welding, employing powder-coated and zinc-coated heavy gauge steel fasteners. These, in tandem with their detailed and exacting engineering, allow the company to offer a 20-year warranty. RoofScreen’s modular systems can also be more easily changed or moved in the event of any reconfiguration of rooftop equipment.

Another common alternative system involves the construction of a “sleeper.” A wood curb, usually a 4x4 or 4x6, is attached to the roof framing and capped with sheet metal. These curbs disrupt the flow of water to roof drains, leading to a gradual buildup of debris and a premature deterioration of the roofing membrane. The screen, typically constructed from steel studs, is attached with an L bracket on the curb. Another issue with the sleeper is the L bracket penetrates into it, creating leak potential and the penetration is relying on a sealant where it is lag bolted. The introduction of sealants requires at least yearly maintenance.

The RoofScreen system attaches at a smaller point – 6-1/4 by 6-1/4 inches – and does not impede water flow to drains or gutters. Each project is designed to require no future maintenance.

RoofScreen has designed a roof attachment system that creates a watertight structural mounting point. It can also be employed to support rooftop equipment platforms, solar racks or any other rooftop equipment on commercial and industrial roofs. The roof attachment system is installed from above and works with any roofing, attaching to the roof framing.

A base support is fastened to the roof structure through the roof deck and covered with flashing matched to existing roofing needs. A rubber gasket and the base cap assembly top the system.

RoofScreen has two engineers on staff and a stable of engineers at its disposal for project calculations, shop drawings and CAD detail. They evaluate everything, including physical reactions which must be borne by the host building and provide projects with PE stamps for all states. RoofScreen offers project solutions, not products. For RoofScreen, it’s about providing a thorough solution.

About RoofScreen Manufacturing

RoofScreen Manufacturing designs, manufactures and distributes pre-engineered modular rooftop framing systems designed to be used as equipment screens and rooftop platform supports on commercial and industrial buildings. Visit RoofScreen's website at www.roofscreen.com.