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How to Protect and Maintain Roof-Mounted Equipment on Commercial Buildings

Roof-mounted equipment like HVAC units, exhaust fans, solar panels, and antennas plays a critical role in modern commercial buildings. But due to constant exposure to the elements, this equipment is vulnerable to damage—and if neglected, it can compromise your roof’s integrity, increase energy costs, and even pose serious safety risks.


At Risk Assured, we help commercial property owners manage and reduce operational risks. This guide outlines how to protect roof-mounted equipment, inspect for damage, and prepare for severe weather, including hail and high winds.

Types of Roof-Mounted Equipment That Require Protection

Commercial rooftops are often home to a variety of essential systems, including:

  • HVAC systems

  • Exhaust fans and ductwork

  • Solar panels

  • Cellular antennas and satellite dishes

  • Skylights and access hatches

Each of these systems introduces risk—especially when installed improperly or left unmonitored.


The Risks of Poorly Maintained Rooftop Equipment

Leaving rooftop equipment unchecked can expose your business to a range of costly issues:

  • Equipment failure leading to higher utility bills and reduced performance

  • Water intrusion from damaged mounting points

  • Structural roof damage from unsecured equipment

  • Wind or storm-related detachment, turning equipment into flying debris

  • Hail damage to HVAC coils, skylights, or solar panels

  • Liability risk from falling or wind-borne objects

Roof-mounted systems are often expensive to repair or replace—and insurance claims tied to rooftop damage may be denied if poor maintenance is found to be a contributing factor.


Best Practices for Rooftop Equipment Inspection and Maintenance

Protecting your roof-mounted systems starts with a proactive inspection and maintenance strategy. Here’s what to focus on:

1. Perform Routine Inspections

  • Check all equipment regularly—at least twice a year and after any major storm

  • Look for signs of corrosion, cracks, or fastener failure

  • Monitor for debris buildup around equipment that can block airflow or drainage

2. Secure Equipment Before Severe Weather

Before storms or hurricanes, have a licensed and insured contractor:

  • Verify that all equipment is properly fastened

  • Make necessary repairs or reinforcements

  • Ensure all penetrations are sealed to prevent water damage


Don’t Overload the Roof in Cold Climates

In snow-prone regions, roof-mounted equipment can reduce the snow load capacity of your roof. Heavy systems can create structural strain and contribute to snow drifting, leading to uneven weight distribution.

Take these precautions:

  • Know your roof’s snow load tolerance

  • Remove excess snow promptly (using professionals)

  • Factor rooftop weight into structural planning and inspection


Hail Protection for Roof-Mounted Equipment

Hailstorms are a major threat in many parts of the U.S., especially across the central and southern regions. HVAC coils and skylights are particularly vulnerable.

Use Hail Guards:

  • Install commercial hail screens or steel wire mesh over HVAC coils and critical equipment

  • Choose at least No. 11-gauge steel wire with maximum openings of ½ inch by 1 inch

  • Protect skylights with impact-resistant covers or guards

For Solar Panels:

  • Only install panels with Moderate Hail (MH) or Severe Hail (SH) ratings in hail-prone areas

  • Assess hail activity in your area before making purchase decisions


Contractual Risk Transfer and Vendor Management

When contractors or service providers install rooftop equipment:

  • Require a written agreement that includes liability transfer clauses

  • Verify licensing and insurance

  • Keep documentation of all inspections and repairs

  • Avoid storing any loose materials on the roof that could become airborne during storms

Working with qualified professionals helps minimize liability and ensures your building meets local building codes and insurance requirements.


Enlist the Right Experts

Depending on your team’s qualifications and building size, you may need outside support. Partner with:

  • A licensed roofing contractor for inspections and repairs

  • A qualified architect or engineer to assess structural wind vulnerabilities

  • A risk management professional to evaluate liability exposures


Final Thoughts: A Proactive Approach Saves Money and Prevents Downtime

Ignoring rooftop equipment is a costly mistake. With regular inspections, hail protection measures, and pre-storm planning, your business can avoid unnecessary repairs and operational disruptions.

At Risk Assured, we provide comprehensive risk assessments and maintenance guidance for rooftop systems. We’ll help you secure your roof—and your business—from preventable damage.

Contact us today to schedule a rooftop inspection strategy session or request our commercial roof equipment checklist.


 
 
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