Month: April 2025

Optimizing HVAC Installations with Roof Curbs: A Guide for Contractors and Property Owners

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

Installing a new HVAC unit on a commercial building isn’t as simple as just placing it on the roof. There are several key considerations that property managers and building owners need to think through when it comes to the way a commercial HVAC unit impacts the roof itself. 

Unfortunately, this part of the process is often overlooked until it becomes a problem. Issues like improper roof curbs, misaligned scheduling between contractors, or unexpected roof damage can all add delays and costs to a project.

At Maxwell Roofing, we have decades of experience supporting HVAC installations on nearly every type of commercial building. In this guide, we highlight some of the essential things you should consider to ensure a smooth, cost-effective installation.

The Most Essential Element for HVAC Installation: Communication

Collaboration between the roofing and HVAC contractors is essential for successful HVAC installation. Early communication is another foundational element for creating a clear understanding of the project scope, timelines, and budget.  This will ensure the roofing crew can safely and properly flash the agreed-upon roof curbs per day to prevent water leaks.  Otherwise, misalignment could lead to delays, cost overruns, and potential damage to the roof. That’s why we emphasize upfront planning and collaboration with a roofing contractor.

Having an in-house metal fabrication department—like we do at Maxwell Roofing—also allows for more flexibility and efficiency in designing and installing roof curbs, making the process smoother for everyone involved.

Other Key Factors for Installing Commercial HVAC Units with Roof Curbs

When installing a rooftop HVAC unit, these five factors can make or break the success of the project.

1. Schedule Synchronization

HVAC installations require cutting into the roof, which temporarily exposes the building to potential water damage. This makes it critical for both the HVAC and roofing teams to align their schedules so that no more penetrations are made than can be properly sealed in a single day. Proper planning prevents unnecessary risks and ensures a watertight roof at the end of each workday.

2. Roof Composition Matters

Not all commercial roofs are the same. Before installation begins, the roofing contractor should have full knowledge of the roof composition, including the deck type and insulation. This ensures that the right materials and methods are used to maintain the roof’s integrity.

Additionally, if the roof is under warranty, using approved materials is essential to keep that warranty valid.

3. Drainage Considerations

Every rooftop HVAC unit alters the existing layout of the roof, which can impact drainage. Without proper planning, this can lead to ponding water and long-term roof damage. It’s best to consult with a design professional during the budgeting phase to evaluate how the new unit placement will affect water flow and drainage patterns.

4. Roof Age and Condition

If the roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, installing a new HVAC unit may not be the best choice without also considering a roof replacement. Placing new equipment on an aging roof could lead to expensive repairs down the line. Evaluating the roof’s condition before installation can help property owners decide if a full roof replacement is a smarter investment.

5. Post-Installation Inspection

After the HVAC installation is complete, a roofing contractor should perform a post-installation inspection to check for any punctures, tears, or other damage to the roofing membrane. Even small issues can lead to leaks if left unaddressed. A final inspection ensures that the roof remains in top condition after the HVAC work is done.

Partner with Maxwell Roofing for Seamless HVAC Installations

HVAC installations require more than just setting a unit on the roof—they demand careful planning, collaboration, and attention to detail. By working with an experienced roofing contractor from the beginning, property managers and HVAC companies can avoid costly mistakes and ensure a smooth installation process.

If you’re planning a commercial HVAC installation and need expert roofing support, Maxwell Roofing is here to help. Contact our team today to learn more about our in-house metal fabrication services and how we can assist with your project.

7 Benefits of a Career in Commercial Roofing

Posted on by Kathleen Maxwell

A career in commercial roofing offers more than a steady job—it offers opportunities. Whether you enjoy working outdoors, problem-solving, or learning a skilled trade, roofing offers a career path with competitive pay, job security, and room for advancement.

At Maxwell Roofing, we believe in creating opportunities for individuals to build lasting careers through hands-on training, competitive benefits, and a strong team culture. Our commitment to craftsmanship and customer service starts with investing in our employees and providing them with the tools they need to thrive.

Here are seven key benefits of choosing a career in commercial roofing and why it might be the right path for you.

1. High Earning Potential with No College Degree

One of the biggest advantages of a career in commercial roofing is that you don’t need a college degree to get started. Many roofing companies, including Maxwell, offer on-the-job training, allowing employees to earn while they learn. With experience and certifications, roofers can increase their earning potential over time. Anyone with a good work ethic and a willingness to learn can be successful in the roofing industry. No college degree? No problem.

“At Maxwell, you can learn a trade, the benefits are good, and the pay is good. Once you learn this stuff, the pay scale is something to build a career on. It just all depends on how much you want to learn and how far you want to go with it.” – Service Foreman, Jeff Newman

2. Job Security

Commercial roofing is a growing industry and a critical one. Commercial buildings consistently need maintenance, inspection, or roofing repairs and replacements. Even during economic downturns, commercial roofing remains a necessity, offering job security that many other industries lack.

3. Advancement Opportunities

There are plenty of opportunities to advance in your commercial roofing career. With the right experience and certifications, some roofers may eventually decide to work in estimating or project management. At Maxwell Roofing, we prioritize internal promotion, helping to support our employees’ professional growth. 

“Some companies don’t value your opinion and don’t make any effort to prioritize your growth. But Maxwell is all about promoting from within and moving team members up the ladder. I went from service foreman to superintendent, and now I’m a service manager.” – Service Manager, Michael Cox

4. Professional Development and Training 

We understand that investing in our employees’ personal and professional growth is a win-win. We allocate an average of 40 hours per year for each employee’s training and development, helping our workers receive certifications through the Association of General Contractors and attend on-site training sessions. We believe that staying ahead in the industry requires a commitment to continuous learning, and we’re proud to support our employees on this journey.

5. Great Benefits and Work-Life Balance

Roofing companies like Maxwell Roofing offer competitive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and training programs. Our goal is to support employees both on and off the job.

6. Spend Time Outdoors

Roofers aren’t stuck all day in an office staring at a screen. With a career in roofing, you’ll spend most of your time outside and working with your hands. Every day brings new challenges and a sense of accomplishment that comes from seeing the work completed.

“Something I love about my job is the different sites I see every day. Not only the different types of roofs I’m on, but the beautiful views and sites of downtown Nashville that I could only see with a job like this.” – Service Technician, Luke Beard

7. A Variety of Work

On a roofing job, every day is different. You’ll be at different job sites, performing different tasks and learning different skills, keeping things interesting. If you’re someone who needs variety in your everyday schedule, commercial roofing could be the right fit for you. 

Build Your Future with Maxwell Roofing

Ready to become a valued member of a supportive, high-achieving team? See for yourself what makes Maxwell Roofing a leader in the industry, explore our employee testimonials, and view our current openings to apply today!