Wind Vented Roof System

One of the most advanced and wind-resistant low-slope commercial roofs is the wind-vented roof.

What Is a Wind-Vented Roof System?

Commercial wind-vented systems pull the air from under the roof membrane through the equalizer valves, typically located along the roof’s perimeter. The process is similar to sucking the air out of a balloon.

The membrane is pulled down tight against the substrate, and system loads are transferred directly to the building’s structure. Rather than fasteners, negative air pressure keeps the roof membrane laying flat, even in high winds.

Benefits and Advantages

A wind-vented roof addresses challenges that confront conventional commercial roofing. For example, wind vented roof systems meet today’s more demanding code requirements for wind-lift resistance.

Since metal fasteners are not required to secure the membrane, it is possible to avoid corroding fasteners, thermal bridging across fasteners and fastener back-out.

Labor and waste disposal costs are reduced since there is usually no need to remove the existing roof system. This makes installation less intrusive for building occupants.

Installation is possible over wet insulation because the wind-vented system will dry out the existing roof and continue to maintain a dry condition throughout the life of the roof. Thereafter, enhanced airflow under the membrane keeps roof components dry, maintaining insulation R-values and mitigates mold growth.

Compared to traditional ballasted roofs, wind vented roof systems are typically easier to maintain. Fewer seams mean far less potential for seam failures.