Most commercial structures have flat roofs, which provide more room for equipment like HVAC units, roof screens, and solar panels. Although this structure can offer additional room for these systems, it isn’t usually taken into account how the supporting parts connected through the roof are connected to prevent energy transmission.

Any penetration into the building envelope, whether it be through a floor, wall, or roof, has the potential to form a thermal bridge when it comes to thermal efficiency. At this location inside the building, heat can easily pass through the joint, resulting in energy loss and perhaps even condensation. Particularly in commercial buildings where the installation of on-roof equipment is relatively popular, the roof is a crucial location where energy transfer can take place.

An inert, closed-cell polymer, ArmathermTM 500 structural thermal break material can carry load while providing continuous insulation to maintain R value and avoid thermal bridges. Condensation problems, which arise when cold temperatures are brought indoors, are also prevented. Mold is frequently found on walls inside buildings with cladded façades or balconies or on ceilings where roofing systems have been installed when cold surfaces have not been properly treated.

Energy transfer problems can be eliminated by using an ArmathermTM product in a roofing assembly, preserving the structure’s energy efficiency. To learn more, visit our products page.