Beware the Dangers of Angle Iron Roof Frames

Last year around this time, we wrote a post that covered many of the most spooky facts about angle iron roof frames. And, well, here we are again nearing October 31 and all things ghoulish. We couldn’t possibly pass up another chance to talk about how downright scary the old way of handling rooftop equipment supports is. So this year, let’s dig into the frightening ramifications of welding in traditional angle iron frames.

Caution: Risk of Fire, Harm & Damage

First, welding always carries risks. Not only were welding and cutting torches the “leading types of equipment involved in hot work fires” according to a study by the National Fire Protection Association, but welding torches alone were also involved in 40% of non-home hot work fires. These fires often result in property damage, injuries like thermal burns and can even cause death.

Second, hot work like welding can create problems beyond fires. It can trigger dangerous chemical reactions, and the fumes from welding can cause health problems. Additionally, welding slag can seriously hurt anyone who is proximal, causing eye damage or other painful issues.

Third, welding is not always possible in every construction environment. It’s dangerous and often not permitted in many renovation situations, like in healthcare facilities, grocery stores and other settings with sensitive equipment, materials and/or food.

Warning: High Costs Ahead

Beyond the actual physical risks associated with welding on job sites, welding in angle iron roof frames is also expensive. The cost of hiring a skilled welder is much more than hiring, say, literally any other person on your project to bolt-on QuickFrames with a ¾” impact driver. And, it generally takes a welder between one and six hours to weld in each frame, while a single QuickFrames roof frame can be installed in 15 minutes or so.

Plus, if mechanical locations change later, your welded frames either need to be cut out – or abandoned entirely. All of this is extremely costly – but also extremely preventable if you just start with QuickFrames instead.

Watch Out for Frustration

Finally, welding in roof frames can be an endeavor filled with hassles. Getting someone up to the right location can be a headache in and of itself, oftentimes requiring special riggings and extension cords. You may also need protective equipment if you’re welding above any sort of equipment or materials that are especially sensitive or flammable.

We’ve been told by customers that angle iron roof frames are only 1% of a given project, but cause 99% of the frustration – and we totally see why. Save yourself frustration, danger and unnecessary costs. Move on from the old way of handling roof frames and start a fast quote here. Happy Halloween!