Low Profile HVAC over Existing Foam Roofs

These photos illustrate the installation process of a low profile HVAC system over an existing foam roof. First, the roof was power washed. Next, the duct system was installed. Then, foam roofing was applied over the duct system. Notice that the coating over the duct system is gray rather than white. This duct system was installed in the winter. We had to wait until the weather warmed up in the Spring to apply a white coating layer over the entire roof surface. Due to its high reflectivity, white coating cures most effectively when the weather is warmer and the days are longer. Street view photos show that the duct system's visibility is minimized.

This home had a failing radiant heat system. Fortunately the customers received their new HVAC system just before the winter weather became very cold. This system features a 97% efficient 3-stage Carrier furnace. Now, their heating bills are only one third as expensive and the home is far more comfortable.

Why Foam is Ideal for an HVAC System

Low profile HVAC (Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning) is only embedded in foam roofing for several reasons. To begin with, foam roofing eliminates condensation. Condensation build-up under roof layers is problematic with other roof systems such as tar and gravel, single ply, and torch down. Foam roofing eliminates this condensation for two reasons. First, foam roofing adheres to the metal duct surface isolating the ducts from moisture in the air. Second, foam roofing insulates the ducts so effectively that there is on longer a cool surface upon which condensation can form.

A couple of other reasons why foam roofing is best suited for embedding HVAC systems are that it improves drainage and is very energy efficient. Foam roofing is applied at varied thicknesses to assure that water drains away from the duct system. Also, the Cool Roof Coatings and closed cell polyurethane insulation over your low profile ductwork is far more energy efficient than other alternatives. On other duct and roof insulation systems, a lot of energy is lost through seams in insulation. Imagine wearing an unzipped jacket on a cold day, then you can start to picture why seams in insulation are so detrimental to efficiency. Spray polyurethane foam is the only waterproofing and insulation barrier that is completely seamless.