Roof Leak – When it is an HVAC Problem and Not the Roofers
It’s raining heavily in Swindon at the moment, and the phones are ringing but Not for AC heaters, or air conditioning but you guessed it…for leaks of water! This is the time of year to get the painted ceiling tiles. The constant complaints and confusions over the cause and responsibility for leaks in the water got me thinking this could be a good subject to write about roofer in Swindon.
Leaks in the rain during storms are always a issue. It is easy to think that if it’s raining, and the roof is leaky, it’s probably an issue for the roofer. For commercial structures, this is the case 90 percent of the times. However, sometimes it’s not the case and this is when we need to be notified. If they’re not installed correctly rooftop air conditioners that are packaged and heaters are often plagued through water leaks. Where is the water going to? Here’s our top five list:
Cracked roof seams on the platform that holds the unit.
It is the primary reason for water leaks in HVAC units. Fortunately, it is fixable by a roofing contractor, but we often get called to repair such problems. HVAC platforms usually sit around 3 feet over the roof, and the roofing material is wrapped vertically, covering the platform. The point where the roofing material is bent to become vertically over time will begin to crack, and eventually leak. The best option is applying Henry’s roofing tar on the patch.
Incorrect flashing of the platform
This second cause is caused by a typical mistake that is made during the installation. Platforms, as they are horizontal, must be covered with a metal cap the top and the cap should overhang with the roof material. If they don’t, then water will get under the roofing material and eventually into the store.
Roof with exposed ductwork and leaky seams
If possible, exposed roofing ductwork must be avoided. It’s very inefficient energy-wise and ductwork exposed to elements can be difficult to keep water-tight. If water is able to seep in between the seams, it could travel through the ductwork directly to the store through air ducts that supply the store. What is this.
Drain pan rubbed out or cap on the platform
The situation becomes a bit tricky because sometimes it’s difficult to know which direction the water comes from. Air conditioning units are placed on a foundation that is protected with the cap. A typical unit of ten tons can weigh up to 1,000 pounds. If there are spots of corrosion and rust of the drain pans, it will not easy to raise to determine the cause of the problem. Whatever way you go about it, the price to fix the issue is expensive and the most cost-effective solution is to speed up the removal and replacement of the device.
Drain pan leak
It’s a thing that happens! It’s pouring rain outside. Naturally, you’re thinking the roof might be leaky, but the technician goes out and, oh my! the drain pan has started to leak. The roofers as well as HVAC technicians love playing blame games with regard to roof issues for commercial buildings, so for record purposes, I’ll put it out here.