3 biggest roofing concerns for food processing facilities

By Dalton Ulm, FiberTite.

FiberTite roofing membranes protect against grease and oil, temperature fluctuations, and leakage.

Food processing and data center industries provide a huge demand for durable and reliable roofing systems. These industries face extensive threats when it comes to building maintenance, sanitation and safety—many of which can be prevented with the right roofing system and installment. In part one of this blog series, we discussed the 3 Reasons Why It’s Crucial to Have a Robust Roof on Data Centers. Today, we’re talking about food processing facilities and the importance of the right roof structure. With more than 35+ years of experience, FiberTite has proven that performance speaks for itself and has a reputation to back it up.

1. Grease and Oil Buildup

Roofing systems on food processing facilities must be able to withstand exposure to grease, oils and other toxic chemicals. As buildup of grease and oil increases, it poses a risk to contamination and sanitation within the facility. Not only can grease and oil be difficult to clean, but it can invite unwanted guests like bacteria and animals into the facility. From the food processor’s standpoint, it is important to invest in a roof that is easy to maintain, durable and provides worry-free protection year after year.

FiberTite roofing membranes’ chemically-resistant formula prevents penetration from fats, oils and contamination. Using a combination of high-fiber content and Elvaloy KEE, FiberTite roofing membranes are able to withstand the harshest environments.

2. Extreme/Fluctuating Temperatures

Cold storage facilities require roofing systems that maintain their internal temperature and resist penetration from outside elements and climate. Maintaining these temperatures is crucial to the quality and longevity of the food products manufactured in the facility.

FiberTite’s light-colored roofs reflect UV rays, which helps maintain more consistent temperature on the roof and in the facility.  Refrigeration units are more efficient and there is less of a differential between the outside roof surface temperature and the underside of the deck level or refrigeration area. A recent study compared the surface temperature of black and white roofs and found that black roofs can be up to 30°C (54°F) hotter than white roofs.

3.) Leakage

Roof leaks are most often the result of a drainage problem that can lead to bigger issues if not addressed and promptly fixed. The potential for a roof leak to threaten sanitation standards within the facility due to the buildup of bacteria in stagnant pooling areas is unacceptable. Food processing facilities must adhere to the regulations under the USDA and FDA, which have a strict, zero tolerance for leakage.

FiberTite’s historical performance in food processing facilities has proven to protect throughout years of wear and tear. In food processing facilities, high foot traffic and maintenance on the roof is common. FiberTite’s roofing membrane is built for puncture and high surface abrasion resistance to withstand the abuse and to continue to perform and protect the facility.

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Source: FiberTite.