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Roofing

Rooftop Supports vs. Roof Curbs

Throughout the history of construction, builders and property owners have not had many choices when it came to the implementation of different products and materials until recently. For the most part, the question was, “should we use a 4×4, 2×4, or 2×6?”  Now, in the current and modern era of construction, there are many options for all needs, but in turn, these options present more questions.   

In saying so, when was the last time that you climbed onto your roof and looked at what was supporting your HVAC system or other mechanical systems? The chances are that your equipment is being supported by a combination of 4×4, 2×4, and 2×6 boards. Wood supports pose potential issues to your roof (read about it in our blog here), that are potentially costly yet easily preventable. Before you rush to get onto your roof to check your HVAC system and equipment support situation, let me present to you the facts of your roof curbs and an alternative support option. 

What is a roof curb? 

A roof curb is a frame (usually constructed using aluminum alloy or galvanized steel with wood) used to secure mechanical equipment such as HVAC units, skylights, AC units, and fans. The curb distributes the weight of what is being supported while also elevating it to allow access to ductwork or the underside of the piece of equipment.  

The installation of a roof curb to an already existing roof is an invasive process. The carpenter must cut a hole into the existing roof, place the curb securely in place, and then replace the building materials around the newly installed curb. The ductwork from the building is then connected to the opening of the curb and sealed airtightRoof curbs are produced for numerous different placements and roof types and can be customized for the intended purpose and roof type.   

Rooftop unit complete with curb adaptor | Power Vac Serving Since 1966 

Replacing or changing a roof curb? 

There are many variables that may play a part in why you must change your roof curb. A few of the main reasons to have to replace your roof curb are replacing your HVAC system with one that needs a different sized or shaped curba complete roof rebuild, or a damaged roof curb that is leading to water damage to your roof or even within your building.  

These issues may prove to be extremely pricey, labor-intensive, or both, leaving you with a headache no matter the solution. If you are replacing your roof or fixing damage to your roof you may have to replace your roof curb depending on the extent of the project. If your issue is updating your HVAC system, the first solution is to remove the piece of equipment and the roof curb and replace it with a new roof curb, redo the ductwork and install the new equipment. Your second option is to hope that a roof duct adapter will fit and function to your needs.  

There you have it… all of your possible solutions. Or is it? 

 

Rooftop Supports  

There has been a recent light shined onto the rooftop support industry in modern construction in regard to ensuring the health and longevity of roofs in construction and in modifications to existing roofs. Companies such as C-Port have perfected the rooftop support and have used their technology and existing product line to create an alternative to roof curbs. C-Port uses a recycled-rubber base with a galvanized corrosion-resistant steel structure or aluminum, and platform in the CMPW Series which has proven to be a practical, cost-effective, and non-invasive solution to your roof-top equipment support situation.  

Like the rest of the C-Port product line, the CMPW (C-Port Mechanical Platform Widebody) series is a non-penetrating support product meaning that it does not penetrate your roofing membrane while elevating rooftop mechanical units and other devicesThe CMPW simply sits on top of your roof providing a secure and strong structure to support your HVAC unit or other roof-top mechanical units while also distributing the weight of the unit evenly across your roof. 

The CMPW series can be purchased as a frame (available in corrosion-resistant steel or aluminum) with rails or equipped with a deck made from 12” x 2-1/2” x 13” galvanized steel grating. The recycled rubber support bases are UV-resistantDepending on the material and size of the CMPW ordered the max load may vary from 2500-6000 lbs. The support platforms are completely customizable in all dimensions per the project requirements.  

 

 

 

Cost 

On the surface, the initial cost comparison of each product leans slightly in the favor of the roof curb over the roof-top support system. But if we take a deeper look into this comparison, the pendulum of the best bang for your buck quickly swings towards the rooftop support system. The original price of a roof curb is on average $250 cheaper than a CMPW system from C-PortThe installation of the roof-curb will equate to be a majority of the cost of the project, wherewith a CMPW system, you simply set your system in the proper positioning and that is it.  

C-Port products are designed to be UV-resistant and to hold up against the ever-changing seasonal weather that many roofs are subject to. The longevity of the CMPW and the very cost-effective installation lean to favor the C-Port product for the better long-term investment and lower overall cost as well as having the potential to customize or use for various pieces of equipment. The CMPW also comes with a 10-year warranty to leave you feeling assured that you made the right decision. 

What’s next? 

If you are debating whether the roof curb or the roof-top support system is the better option for your roof needs and are looking for more insight into the question, do not hesitate to call us at 1(204)786-3334. We will be happy to answer any questions that you may have.  

Check out our product line at the link below! 

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