Most flat roof industrial buildings and facilities have rocks on the roof. Rocks remain on flat roofs to extend the life of the roof itself. The structure of the roof will consist of several thin layers made of tar, asphalt and/or bitumen material. Pebbles or rocks are spread over this thin layer to protect cracking and peeling from sun exposure or worn down by the elements.
Overall, the rocks and pebbles provide a roof with drain outlets for rainstorms. These outlets are hindered when various other debris fall onto the roof, such as leaves, sticks, and various other organically drifting materials block the drains. The rocks on the roof are an implemented, and protective system for these drains from being clogged by this organic debris.
Similarly, these pebbles and rocks provide thermal protection via rocks heat absorption capabilities. This absorption is enhanced with rocks being able to release heat as well. With the uneven spacing of the rocks on the roof, they provide air space to absorb, disperse, and release heat above the thin roof layer.
The term ballast rock comes from the action of the actual rocks on the roof. While rocks on a roof provide protective systems for drains and ensure heat placement and absorption, but it also sustains the structural integrity of the roof itself. Ballast rock holds the actual roof down ensuring that it does not blow off.
Laying ballast rocks down is vital to the roof’s longevity, as well as replacing the roof itself. If you want to maintain your flat roof and need to replace the rubber roof or need to clean the thin layer of roofing below the rocks, you are in need of an efficient process. The various rock removal methods are stated below:
Traditional Ballast Removal
The most well-known form of rock removal is traditional ballast removal. This removal process begins with shoveling the dirt, gravel, rocks, and access to organic debris from the roof via wheelbarrows, or industrial equipment. This process is the most time consuming, and tedious considering the labor needed to remove the access amount of debris.
Industrial Dry Vacuum Method
The dry vacuum method skips the shoveling and, instead, clears the roof of the rocks efficiently and effectively. This process causes less damage to the roof due to fewer individuals being on the roof. Preserving the thin layer of the roof from the damage that comes with human error is important when deciding between the industrial dry vacuum method, or the traditional ballast removal method.
At Industrial Vacuum Equipment, our line of Hurricane 600 Industrial Vacuums are equipped with wet and dry vacuum methods that assists in the overall cleanup method of rock roof removal. Consider renting or purchasing one of our Industrial Vacuums to assist in your rock removal. Request a quote or request a rental today.