Every post that rises through a roof and every column that bears on an exterior foundation is a path for heat to leave the building. Rooftop dunnage for HVAC units, screen and solar supports, parapet posts and column bases are small connections, but there are many of them.
Placing a thermal break pad under the base plate isolates the post or column from the structure below while still carrying axial load, shear and uplift through the anchors.
Typical Applications
- Rooftop dunnage and equipment supports – posts carrying HVAC units, mechanical screens and piping racks
- Solar and signage supports – roof-mounted frames anchored through the roof assembly
- Parapets and roof-to-wall intersections – posts and outriggers that cross the insulation line
- Steel column bases on foundation walls – where the column or wall sits outside the insulated envelope
- Cold storage and freezer buildings – column bases and racking supports isolated from the slab or footing
STB-1 or TBF?
| STB-1 | TBF High Density | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Structural posts and columns, moment or high-load bases | Light, non-moment supports and cold storage isolation |
| Compressive capacity | 48,000 psi | 560 to 2,150 psi depending on grade |
| Thermal performance | k = 1.055 BTU·in/hr·ft²·°F | R-1.9 to R-3.1 per inch |
| Fire | ASTM E84 Class A, Euroclass B | DIN 4102 Class B3 |
| Typical lead time | 5–7 days | As little as 3 days |
When in doubt, use STB-1. TBF should not be used in moment connections. See STB-1 and TBF for full data.
Detailing Tips
- Size the pad to the full base plate so bearing is uniform.
- Isolate anchor rods with thermal break washers and bushings at the top of the base plate.
- Check anchors for bending through the added grip, especially with thicker pads.
- Seal the roof membrane to the post above the base plate per the roofing manufacturer.
Final connection design, including bolt sizing, pad thickness and load checks, is the responsibility of the project’s structural engineer of record. We supply material data and fabricate to the approved design.
Request a Quote or Data Sheet
Send us your connection drawings, bolt schedule or load requirements and we will quote STB-1, TBF, washers and bushings cut and machined to your specification. Data sheets and design support are available for engineers and architects.
Call 800-580-4195 or use the form below. STB-1 typically ships in 5–7 days; TBF in as little as 3 days.