How To Choose Rooftop Equipment Screening Solution?

Common rooftop mechanical equipment includes condensers, HVAC, meters, breakers, compressors, containers, generators, etc. The rooftop equipment is designed to handle the inclement weather but there are concerns of wind damage and even in direct sightline of pedestrians as they are basically mounted on platforms.

Rooftop mechanical equipment is mounted on platforms for multiple reasons. The heavy bulky machines can crush the roof membrane because of the vibration and heaviness. The roof surface even has duct works, cable trays, and the piping network spread across that can be an obstacle for the maintenance crew. 

Regular traffic to the machines for inspection, fixing, and maintenance can also damage the roof surface. So, the surface-mounted platform system from Con-form Group is a good option. The engineering company offers rooftop equipment platform and screen wall solution.

Benefits of rooftop equipment screening solution

  • Conceals unsightly machines with sharp clean screen wall lines.
  • Pre-engineered, so installation is easy and quick.
  • Chance to choose a color scheme to match the surrounding architectural aesthetics.
  • Visual barriers increase airflow to enhance machinery performance and durability.
  • Blades can be mounted horizontally or vertically depending on the aesthetic preference.
  • Added security for a screened area without foregoing access. 

Rooftop mechanical equipment screens will need a building permit and community design approval. 

How to choose screens for rooftop-mounted equipment?

Surrounding compatibility

The screen has to be in sync with the existing building color, structure, and style. For example, if the roof lines are horizontal then consider horizontal louvers or slats.

Sightline

The equipment screens must be considered from every vantage point. for a building that is taller than the other buildings surrounding is not visible from any side. However, in this scenario, the equipment’s wind load capability needs to be considered for better protection. If the building is close to an elevated construction, the designer will consider featuring an overhang or a roof. 

Equipment itself 

It is not practical to screen all rooftop equipment types because of height, space, and ventilation needs. 

Structural consideration

Some screens are not self-supported, so need to be attached to a rooftop. So, the structural engineer will calculate the wind load.

Visibility

There are screen types that offer 80% or 100% direct visual screens or you can have panels created for less visibility. 

Openness level

Visual screens directly impact openness level. Openness level is the exposed area between louvers, planks, etc. over a specific range. This open or exposed area determines the air amount that can travel across the infill elements. 

Common rooftop screen designs

Louvers

Customize the lovers to subtract or add airflow and visibility. You get to choose from vertical, diagonal, or horizontal louvered infill. 

Slats

You get to choose from vinyl, composite, or aluminum slats. It allows matching the building profile. Customize the openness level to your preference. 

You can have screening panels fastened directly to mechanical equipment. The manufacturers offer trussing systems engineered for load bearing. It is easy and quick to attach to the plant platforms. The screens are extremely strong and capable to handle the high wind loads and protect the mechanical equipment. 

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