Should I Install Walkways?

So much of our HVAC and other equipment is housed on rooftops, especially on commercial properties. That equipment needs frequent inspection to stay in good working condition. Of course, that lends itself to another problem … the more feet on the roofing material, the more likely clumsy boots are to damage it. The solution is to install walkways to the various areas that require frequent traffic.

(Photo courtesy of Carlisle Syntec Systems)

There are several kinds of rooftop walkways that can be installed, from metal with safety rails to thermoplastics and polymers with non-slip surfaces that are bonded directly to the roofing material (usually TPO), and even concrete stepping stones for built-up roofing. They come in all different surfaces, shapes, sizes and colors and can even be custom painted or tinted to help blend in with your facility. Nearly all manufacturers of roofing material also produce some type of walkway that can be installed.

That is why it is a good idea to consult with a professional roofer to help you decide what type of walkway might work best for your roof, AND have them install it so that no damage is done during the process. Once installed, walkways will help with four main aspects:

Inspections

Walkways will allow easy and safe access to the mechanical equipment on the roof. The last thing you need is a slip and fall from an inspector on your property.

Maintenance

In between inspections, your employees will need access to the machinery, as well as require access to the roof itself for minor repairs. Walkways can make the task much easier.

Damage Prevention

Some areas of roofing material may be created to only hold a certain amount of weight before damage occurs. Installing walkways steers employees away from the more fragile areas and protects the entire roof from damage.

Safety

The biggest reason to install roof walkways is to protect the lives of your employees. No job is worth risking the safety of the people who work for you, nor do you want to liable for injuries that might occur in the workplace.