Equipment Screens

Conceal unsightly rooftop equipment using an architectural equipment screen
By Shari Schneider An equipment screen can be used to aesthetically improve the rooftops of many different types of buildings. From skyscrapers to residential complexes, architectural equipment screens can be designed to blend with the building construction, hiding such equipment as HVAC units, RTUs, air chillers and air exchangers.

A rooftop equipment screening barrier is a practical way to complement a building's design and at the same time hide mechanical equipment necessary to security and building maintenance. They are constructed out of a variety of materials from metal to fiberglass. Today's designs are much improved compared to those in the past which were often constructed out of whatever materials the builder had on hand by someone with little roofing experience, later resulting in structural failure and roof leaks.

When you choose an equipment screen:

1. Conduct a roof inspection to determine what type of equipment needs concealed behind a rooftop equipment screen.
2. Measure the size of the area to be concealed and make a decision regarding size and construction materials of the rooftop screening systems.
3. Save time and money on research. Narrow down choices by making sure suppliers of roof screens utilize AutoCAD and ePaper.
   

Determine the specifications required for the rooftop equipment screens

The design chosen should not only serve its function, but should complement the construction of the building in such a way that it is hardly noticeable. Start the process by contacting various companies asking for their best recommendations that fits your parameters. This information will give you a starting point to narrow down a list of candidates for the job.
Try:  RoofScreen, Aeicor Metal Products and Armetco Systems are all companies with various styles of construction that have the ability to produce rooftop equipment screening. An alternative to metal rooftop screening designs is Screen Clad, mainly constructed out of fiberglass.

Determine the size required of the rooftop screening system

If there is a significant amount of rooftop equipment that needs to be concealed, you might consider an equipment screen that runs the entire length and around the roof. It'd be constructed so that it fit with the design of the building and be easily accessible to perform required equipment maintenance. Most companies offer specifications for your review and will advise your company on layout and installation.
Try:  CityScapes International manufactures and distributes rooftop equipment screens constructed in panels that move easily from side to side and have a patented attachment system that does not penetrate the roof. For an option that makes the rooftop equipment system look more part of the building structure, consider Industrial Louvers.

Request an AutoCAD layout of the rooftop equipment screen from multiple suppliers

Since the design will effect the overall appearance of your building for many years to come, it'd be advisable to make sure that the design is approved prior to installation. If you are unfamiliar with AutoCAD, designed by Autodesk, Inc., it's a software used by drafting and building professionals. By reviewing these specifications, you'll get an idea how the finished product will look which goes a long way in choosing the right manufacturer for the job.
Try:  Review information at Creative Computers regarding AutoCAD so you have a better understanding regarding the design process. Since you can save so much time making use of the Internet, you might want to be sure that the supplier you choose utilizes ePaper, software designed to work with AutoCAD that offers the ability to email designs. This will open up endless possibilities as to supplier choice and save time as they won't have to wait on the mail for drawing approval.

• Before adding any roof screens or other structures to your existing building, check your local building codes and regulations to make sure your company is compliant.