How Technology Is Changing Commercial Roofing Equipment

Technology is impacting nearly every industry, and commercial roofing is no different. From project setup to final application, contractors are leveraging advances in commercial roofing equipment to streamline workflow and complete jobs more efficiently.

Spray foam equipment, which plays a critical role in the application of insulation and waterproofing, has evolved from basic setups to sophisticated machines with advanced controls, monitoring systems, and smart diagnostics. These advancements in commercial roof equipment produce more consistent results, less downtime, and increased profitability for contractors.

Foam application requires specialized equipment to ensure proper foam mixture, temperature control, and even spray application. Advances in spray foam equipment technology have dramatically improved these factors, making the entire process safer and more intuitive. As an example, proportioners now assist operators with greater control and precision—such as advanced temperature and pressure control, automated shutdowns for error prevention, and digital displays that monitor and report real-time performance metrics.

These features are particularly beneficial with commercial roof equipment, where uniform application is essential, and downtime is a profitability killer.

Commercial Roofing Equipment—Graco and PMC

Graco is one of the most well-known and reliable names in the business, with commercial roofing equipment designed for durability.

Graco’s latest spray foam equipment is equipped with advanced features, including:

• Remote Monitoring: Allows contractors to track and manage equipment performance from a distance, minimizing the need for on-site adjustments.
• Variable Temperature and Pressure Controls: Offers precise temperature and pressure adjustments for consistent spray quality and tailored application to different surfaces.
• Smart Diagnostics: Provides real-time diagnostics and error alerts, helping contractors proactively manage and resolve issues to reduce downtime.
• Data Reporting and Analytics: Tracks key performance metrics, giving contractors insights into usage patterns, materials consumption, and maintenance needs.
• Automated Shutdown and Safety Controls: Activates when certain thresholds are met, ensuring safe operation and preventing costly damage to equipment from overheating or over-pressurization. Another industry leader is PMC, which offers many of the same technology features as Graco. Highlights include:
• Self-Diagnostics System: Provides automatic alerts for maintenance and troubleshooting, helping contractors identify and address issues before they lead to downtime.
• Quick-Change Pump System: Simplifies the pump replacement process, enabling faster maintenance and reducing downtime for high-demand projects.
• Variable Ratio Controls: Offers adjustable material ratios, enabling contractors to fine-tune foam density for optimal insulation and coverage on different surfaces.
• Enhanced Heating Capabilities: Ensures consistent temperature maintenance even in cold environments, allowing for uniform foam application and improved adhesion.
  
  

Both Graco and PMC proportioners include a digital touchscreen display for easy control over settings, temperature, and pressure adjustments.

How Contractors Benefit from Advanced Technology

All of these advancements have improved the quality and ease of operation of commercial roofing equipment, creating more efficient solutions. Efficiency translates to productivity, which means you can complete jobs quicker and provide a quality application.

Fewer Adjustments

Automated controls require fewer adjustments or work stoppages. Remote monitoring, for example, lets you keep working while keeping an eye on your equipment specs, without having to travel back and forth to your machine. Automated settings reduce the need for manual adjustments and monitoring.

Less Rework

Advanced temperature and pressure controls deliver a more consistent application, which results in better performance and less rework.

Reduced Maintenance

Self-diagnostics and digital displays provide alerts when maintenance is needed and help identify problems, reducing the risks of clogs or breakdowns. This helps you keep your equipment working optimally and prevent downtime.

Lower Material Costs

More efficient application of materials reduces waste, increasing profitability and making your chemical supply go further. This also helps reduce your environmental footprint, which can be a big selling point for customers focusing on sustainable solutions.

Better Resource Allocation

One often overlooked benefit is the data you get about performance. You can get detailed insights into usage patterns, performance, maintenance needs, and more. This can help you make better decisions about commercial roofing equipment allocation and maintenance scheduling.

Reduced Training Time

With user-friendly interfaces and automated controls, the learning curve for operators is faster. Teams get trained more quickly, which translates into lower error rates during operation.

Finding the Technology That Works Best for You

With commercial roof equipment, you have options. So, what equipment is right for your business? Talk to the experts at Intech Equipment & Supply, and let’s discuss your needs. We’ll help you identify the ideal fit for your contracting business.

Call Intech Equipment & Supply at (866) 652-9975 or check out our commercial roofing equipment online.

About Kevin Malone
Kevin Malone is a leading expert in the spray foam insulation industry with 34 years of experience in spray foam fluid handling and a passion for innovation. He currently offers his extensive knowledge to Intech Equipment and Supply customers by supporting them in selecting quality spray foam equipment to optimize their business. Learn more about Kevin here.