Frequently Asked Questions:
- Q. How can your product help my business?
- A. EGIS (Exhaust Grease Inhibition System) protects your roof and your business in multiple ways. EGIS helps you to comply with NFPA standards and addresses other fire prevention issues. The product also helps you comply with EPA, Workmen’s Comp and OSHA concerns.
- Q. What is the impact of grease on the roof?
- A. When fatty acids from cooking fats, oils and grease come in contact with a roofing system it causes most roofs to soften, delaminate, blister or crack depending on the specific roof material. Fatty acids from grease void most roof warranties and roof replacements are expensive. Pooling grease and its runoff into the storm sewer presents an environmental problem and potentially costly fines. Also, fire inspectors can close your business if they find excessive grease on the roof. What is the cost of your business being shut down for even a day?
- Q. How does your product differ from other rooftop grease systems?
- A. The difference is containment versus absorption. Other systems try to contain the grease and EGIS absorbs the grease through its seven levels of protection. Grease is lighter than water and when it rains the grease goes over the top of the systems and goes on the roof. This problem is found in most diaper or trough style systems. With EGIS there are no expensive leaky diapers to replace. The all-natural absorbent Scoria found in the EGIS system absorbs the grease like a sponge and lets the clean water flow-through safely onto the roof.
- Q. Does EGIS comply with industry standards?
- A. Yes. There is increased awareness of environmental issues. We believe pending legislation may even elevate this awareness on a national basis. The EPA requires that all potential sources for storm water runoff must be identified in Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPP’s) and that Best Management Practices (BMP’s) must be used to control the pollution that results from this runoff. EGIS and it’s related products help comply and can be identified as BMP’s for capturing and eliminating the fatty acids, oils and grease consistent with the run off from rooftop ventilation systems. EGIS has a 15 year limited warrantee on its frame-the best that we are aware of in the industry. It is always practical to check with local authorities for approval of use. Some local authorities may have their own requirements. It is fire resistant, UV protected, rainproof and will not rot, mold or mildew. In any weather if it be snow, sleet or desert heat EGIS will do its job protecting roofs and business owners for years to come.
- Q. How do I know what size system is right for my roof?
- A. Once we have measurements of the exhaust fan curbs and the number of fans on the roof we can determine the size of the EGIS system that corresponds to the amount of grease produced by each fan.
- Q. Can the system be modified to fit any type of grease exhaust fan?
- A. Each unit is custom manufactured to order and can do fitted for any style fan whether it be sloped, side-mount or flat for virtually all roof types.
- Q. Does your unit sit on the roof?
- A. The EGIS system is constructed to fit around the exhaust fan and is not fastened to the roof. The system is designed to be raised one inch off the roof so the grease can be absorbed in the Scoria and the water can be naturally filtered and channeled away from the roof.
- Q. Are there any other products available from RPS?
- A. Yes, we even make units that sit under drain spouts.
- Q. Is this product new on the market?
- A. Roof Protection Systems was the first to design and patent a grease containment system. It has been utilized in thousands of situations to protect roofs and business owners from the debilitating effects of cooking fats, oil and grease.
- Q. How heavy is the EGIS system?
- A. Our units weigh up to 325 lbs. This weight is displaced over a four to six foot area. The system sits an inch above the roof and is not attached to the horizontal roof surface. The systems are built to withstand the weight of a serviceman standing on it while cleaning the exhaust fan.
- Q. How often does the system need to be serviced?
- A. We suggest the units be inspected on a quarterly basis. In most cases maintenance every six months should be sufficient.
- Q. How do you service the system?
- A. The EGIS systems are easy to maintain. The grease absorbed Scoria resembles a “popcorn” ball and can be easily removed and replaced with new Scoria. This service can be done by your team or by your local kitchen exhaust cleaner. For your convenience we have a national service team that stocks Scoria and can service your locations nationwide.
- Q. What happens if I forget to service my system?
- A. The EGIS unit can withstand a certain amount of neglect if even adequately maintained however with all maintenance issues there will be a need for service. Once the seven levels of protection are completely saturated the assimilation pad and scoria will need to be replaced. Replace parts can be easily ordered from Roof Protection Systems at a nominal cost and the unit can be refurbished in about an hour.
- Q. Where can I purchase the Scoria?
- A. We stock the Scoria at our plant and can ship this directly to your location. Upon your request, we can send you a reminder to check your maintenance needs. We want to be easy to do business with and we will work with you to meet your needs.
- Q. From the time I place my order, how long does it take to be delivered?
- A. Typically, you will receive your unit within a week of placing your order.
- Q. Who are your customers?
- A. We have installed units in almost every major restaurant chain. They are also in use at processing plants, grocery stores, hotels, hospitals and schools. Our product excels in high-volume grease environments. We have been told repeatedly by restaurants, kitchens exhaust cleaners and roofing professionals that EGIS is the best system for solving rooftop grease problems.
