What Information We Need to Design the Right Curb Adapter the First Time

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Help Us Get It Right So Your Project Stays on Schedule

Every commercial HVAC retrofit is different.

Different manufacturers. Different roof curbs. Different airflow layouts. Different building conditions.

That’s why designing a custom curb adapter starts with one thing: accurate project information.

The more complete the information you provide, the more efficiently our engineering team can review your project, design the right solution, and keep your installation moving forward.

At Curbco, we believe good planning creates better outcomes. This guide explains exactly what we’ll need and why it matters.

Relax… It’s Curbco.

Figure 1: The seven categories of information our engineering team needs, at a glance.

Why Complete Project Information Matters

When replacing an RTU, there’s rarely a one-size-fits-all solution.

Even equipment with the same tonnage can have different:

  • Footprints
  • Supply and return openings
  • Curb requirements
  • Operating weights
  • Utility locations

Having complete project information helps us:

  • Design a curb adapter that fits correctly
  • Reduce field modifications
  • Improve installation efficiency
  • Minimize project delays
  • Avoid unnecessary questions during production

Simply put, better information helps everyone move faster.

1. Existing Rooftop Unit Information

Start with the equipment currently on the roof.

Helpful information includes:

  • Manufacturer
  • Model number
  • Serial number (if available)

This gives our engineering team a starting point for comparing the existing equipment with the replacement unit.

2. Replacement Unit Information

Next, we’ll need information about the new equipment.

Include:

  • Manufacturer
  • Model number
  • Equipment submittal
  • Shop drawings (if available)

Manufacturer submittals provide valuable information about dimensions, airflow, weight, and curb requirements.

📄 If you have equipment drawings ready, you can Submit Your Drawings.

3. Roof Curb Dimensions

Accurate curb measurements are one of the most important parts of the process.

Please include:

  • Overall length
  • Overall width
  • Curb height
  • Inside dimensions (if accessible)
  • Outside dimensions

Double-check measurements before submitting them.

Small differences can have a big impact during installation.

👉 Need help? Learn about our Curb Measurement Service.

4. Airflow Opening Locations

Knowing where the supply and return openings are located helps ensure proper airflow alignment.

Include:

  • Opening dimensions
  • Opening locations
  • Offsets from curb edges
  • Airflow direction

Photos and marked-up sketches are especially helpful here.

5. Rooftop Photos

Photos often answer questions that measurements alone cannot.

Helpful photos include:

  • Overall rooftop view
  • Existing RTU
  • Roof curb
  • Supply and return openings
  • Utility connections
  • Nearby obstructions

The more context we have, the easier it is to identify potential challenges before production begins.

6. Roof Conditions

Every rooftop is unique.

If applicable, let us know about:

  • Roof pitch
  • Recent reroof work
  • Limited access
  • Structural concerns
  • Parapet walls
  • Crane restrictions

Planning around these conditions early helps reduce surprises later.

7. Project Timeline

Knowing your expected installation date helps us recommend the best production schedule.

If your project has a tight deadline, let us know upfront.

⚡ Ask about FastPass for qualifying expedited production.

What Happens After You Submit?

Once we receive your project information, our team reviews the details to confirm compatibility and identify anything that may need clarification before production begins.

If additional information is needed, we’ll reach out early rather than making assumptions.

Our goal is simple:

Help you receive a solution that’s designed for your project the first time.

Figure 2: What happens to your project information after you submit it.

How Curbco Helps

A curb adapter is only as good as the information behind it.

That’s why our team takes the time to review every project individually.

Whether you’re replacing one rooftop unit or coordinating dozens of retrofit projects, we’re here to simplify the process by helping you:

  • Review project information
  • Verify equipment compatibility
  • Design custom curb adapters
  • Reduce installation surprises
  • Keep projects moving on schedule

We’re more than a manufacturer.

We’re your retrofit partner.

Relax… It’s Curbco.

Ready to Get Started?

Before submitting your project, gather:

Figure 3: What to have ready before you submit your project.

When you’re ready, our engineering team is ready too.

📁 Submit Your Drawings

Or, if you’d like to discuss your project first:

📞 Contact a Curbco Retrofit Specialist

Related Resources

Continue planning your retrofit with these helpful guides:

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