An enquiry to Rooftherm was made by a green fresh food supplier to the major supermarkets based in Evesham, Worcestershire. They reported that its main processing building, a prefabricated uninsulated steel building, was literally raining inside resulting in electrical shorts and lost time on production as lines had to be closed. The condensation was so bad that the ceilings dripped water like rain continuously throughout the working day. Not only did workers get an early cold shower but, rather chillingly, the dripping condensation caused numerous electrical shorts in high powered electrical equipment used on the production lines. Lines had to be closed for safety sake and equipment turned off before anyone could be electrocuted.
Clearly the uninsulated steel roof is the problem since a massive amount of condensation was forming on this large cold surface. The steel being at ice temperature was responsible for rapidly chilling the air to dew point and yielding massive amounts of condensation to the extent that it simply dripped off the steel ceiling.
The solution is to insulate the roof with a material that is quick to install so that minimal production time is not lost, withstands moisture (most insulation materials don't) and stays put without being a health hazard to workers below. The answer? Polyurethane spray foam will be hot applied under and pressure welded to the underside of the steel roof to provide an anti-condensation coating. Polyurethane foam is the best commercial insulator and sealer and will prevent the moist air from coming into contact with the cold steel and thus prevent condensation from forming. As a retro fit product it saves time and money over a new roof with built in insulation. It is also inert and cures rapidly with no health risks. End of condensation problem!
More details about condensation and polyurethane spray foam technology can be found at www.rooftherm.co.uk.
