By Emma Peterson.

Industry experts discuss the importance of reducing mental health stigma and encouraging difficult but necessary conversations.

In the roofing industry, safety is a common topic of conversation. But what is often missed in those conversations is that safety is not just about fall protection and PPE; it’s also about taking care of the mental health of your team. To learn more about how we can all make mental health and supporting our teammates a priority, Heidi J. Ellsworth hosted a panel of industry leaders for an episode of the Roofing Road Trips® podcast.

Meet the panel

There were three different roofing experts on the panel. One was Joel Stanley, who is the founder of Anchor Products, a company known for their rooftop equipment manufacturing. In addition to producing high-quality products for roofing manufactures and contractors, Joel and the Anchor team are part of the Single Ply Roofing Industry (SPRI) association.

The next member of the panel is also a member of SPRI. Lynsey is the CEO of Tyelus, a group of “strategic process architects,” and has been involved with SPRI for over a decade. And last but not least, rounding out our panel was McKay Daniels, the CEO of the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA).

Keeping mental health top of conversation

So, how do we make mental health a priority? Organizations like NRCA and SPRI are leading the way. How so? In NRCA’s case, McKay and his team have made mental health resources and support more accessible for contractors through their BeToughEnough.org microsite. McKay shared some background into the development of that resource, saying, “This issue came up for NRCA in earnest about three years ago now. We were reading the statistics and then in the course of about 60 days I talked to three different contractors who had lost a teammate to suicide in their shop... After that we knew it needed be a priority.”

As for SPRI, Joel and Lynsey are at the forefront of their mental health operations as the co-chairs of their new mental health task force. This task force aims to lower suicide rates by raising awareness of mental health and its relation to crew safety. Joel explained, “Mental health is something that impacts us all, no matter your physical state, economic state or anything else. And we've seen a friend or a family member or even ourselves struggle. And you never want to get that phone call.” He went on, “Our work at SPRI is really centered on the idea that we can't rely on somebody else to save our friend, we need to be brave enough to step up and be that person.” Lynsey added, “It’s not easy being that person, it’s going to feel uncomfortable and even unnatural... But it’s better to feel that brief discomfort than if you didn't ask the question and something happened.”

Listen to the whole episode or Watch the recording to learn more about how you can step up and support your teammates mental health and safety.

By Jesse Sanchez.

Severe weather, seismic forces and evolving codes are changing how rooftop piping and equipment are secured.

On this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Megan Ellsworth spoke with Mark Vargas, director of business development for AP Roof Services, the service side of Anchor Products, about how rooftop pipe and equipment supports have evolved from a secondary consideration into an engineered part of the roof system.

Mark’s experience with rooftop supports stretches back to the early 1990s, when non-penetrating systems commonly supported piping and equipment. At the time, systems could rely on wood blocking, plastic bases, rubber blocks or counterweights without being attached to the roof.

Over time, severe weather and seismic events exposed the true weaknesses in those approaches. Describing what contractors began seeing on rooftops, Mark explained, “Pipes started sliding across the roof. There was uplift forces that were loosening things on the roof that was causing damage to the membrane.” Those conditions could also cause supports to tip over or allow piping and equipment to become airborne, increasing the potential for roof damage.

Those failures contributed to changes in how rooftop supports are designed, specified and inspected. Mark noted, “Local jurisdictions started requiring everything on the roof to be attached,” including not only utilities but also the systems supporting them. As enforcement became more consistent, engineered attachment solutions increasingly became part of project requirements.

Today, that shift is evident in the applications Mark encounters. Reflecting on how dramatically the process has changed, he shared, “I don't see really many applications that come across my desk that don't have to be engineered anymore.” He contrasted that with earlier years when support systems could move from a basic sketch into production without engineering involvement.

At the same time, the industry has worked to balance securement with roof-system protection. Traditional attachment methods often require roof penetrations, creating concerns about leaks and warranties. Explaining the alternative approach, Mark said, “Now we can sit everything on top of a finished membrane with an approved component and as long as we're following the manufacturer's specification on how we apply that, we're covered under their warranty.”

Looking ahead, Mark expects rooftop support systems to continue emphasizing strength, simplicity, longevity, code compliance and compatibility with roofing systems as contractors, manufacturers and designers respond to changing performance requirements.

Listen to the podcast or Watch the conversation to learn more about how evolving codes, severe weather and engineering requirements are reshaping rooftop pipe and equipment support systems!

By Jesse Sanchez.

Properly securing rooftop equipment can help contractors protect roof systems, meet evolving code requirements and reduce risk during high-wind events.

Rooftop equipment does more than add complexity to a commercial roof system. When it is not properly supported and secured, it can create risks for the roof, the building and the people around it. In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Megan Ellsworth spoke with Brandon Reynolds of Anchor Products about evolving code requirements, rooftop attachment and the value of planning for equipment support before installation begins.

Brandon explained that ASCE 7 Standard addresses calculations for wind and seismic loads. He noted that code language has increasingly clarified the need to properly anchor rooftop components to the structure, particularly as contractors and building owners consider the potential effects of severe weather.

When evaluating what deserves the most attention, Brandon emphasized, “The biggest problem are the lightweight items that are up there.” He pointed to rooftop piping, ductwork and mini-split heating, ventilation and air conditioning units as examples of equipment that can move during high winds. Even comparatively light components can damage a roof membrane or create additional hazards if they shift or become airborne.

Proper planning starts with understanding the entire roof assembly, including the deck, supporting structure, insulation and cover board. It also requires coordination among the trades responsible for designing, installing and waterproofing rooftop systems. Brandon stressed, “The roofing and mechanical contractors have to work together now that this is in code.”

That collaboration can help teams select support methods that meet project requirements while limiting unnecessary penetrations through the roof system. Brandon noted that some traditional equipment supports require openings through the membrane and insulation, which can add waterproofing challenges and affect the thermal envelope. Encouraging mechanical contractors to involve roofing professionals earlier, Brandon advised, “You should design a support system for your mechanical equipment that requires the roofer to cut as few holes as possible into the membrane and through the thermal shell.”

Anchor Products offers attachment solutions for mechanical, electrical, plumbing and safety equipment, along with support for pre-engineered concepts and access to third-party professional engineering services when stamped designs are required.

By considering code requirements, attachment methods and roof-system compatibility earlier in the process, contractors can better protect the roof while helping building owners prepare rooftop equipment for demanding conditions.

Listen to the podcast or Watch the conversation to learn more about how code-compliant rooftop equipment attachment, early planning and coordination between trades can help protect commercial roof systems!

By Jesse Sanchez.

Slippery single-ply membranes and changing project specifications are bringing more attention to snow retention on commercial roofing systems.

Snow retention is often associated with steep-slope residential roofing, but low-slope commercial roofs can face similar risks when snow and ice begin to move. On this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Karen Edwards spoke with Robert Alvarez, representative for Anchor Products, about why contractors and building owners should consider how snow leaves a commercial roof.

Snow guards and snow fences are designed to keep snow and ice on the roof so they can melt or leave in a more controlled amount instead of shedding in a large mass. Explaining the purpose of these systems, Robert shared, “It’s going to hold ice and snow up on a roof, so it comes down in a more measured manner.”

That consideration can be particularly important on single-ply roofing systems, including thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and ketone ethylene ester (KEE), which Robert described as especially slippery. Even roofs with minimal slope can experience sliding snow, and Robert emphasized that significant accumulation is not always necessary to create a concern. He noted, “You can have a snowfall that’s very minor and still needs snow retention. Even with a low pitch, that stuff will still slide off.”

Although there is no universal code requiring snow retention, Robert said some municipalities are beginning to include it in project requirements. Building owners must also consider what can happen below the roof when snow or ice sheds onto people, vehicles or equipment. Robert cautioned, “The liability is on the building owner.”

Designing a snow retention system begins with understanding the conditions of the individual project. Anchor Products considers factors including eave-to-ridge dimensions, roof pitch and local snow loads when determining appropriate spacing for brackets and anchors. Its commercial options include a two-pipe snow fence system as well as a unitized system for smaller areas requiring spot retention.

For contractors, understanding how membrane type, roof slope and snow load influence snow movement can help make snow retention part of the planning process rather than a response to unexpected shedding.

Listen to the podcast to learn more about how thoughtful snow retention planning can help manage snow and ice on low-slope commercial roofing systems!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Snow retention systems can help control how snow and ice leave low-slope commercial roofs, reducing the risk of sudden shedding below. 

Snow retention may be more commonly associated with steep-slope roofing, but low-slope commercial roofs can also benefit from systems designed to control how snow and ice leave the roof. On this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Karen Edwards spoke with Robert Alvarez, South Central representative for Anchor Products, about the role snow retention can play on commercial roofing systems. Robert explained that snow guards and snow fences are designed to hold snow and ice on the roof so it can melt or shed in a more controlled manner rather than coming off in a large mass. He explained, “What that's basically wanting to do is to hold ice and snow up on a roof so it comes down in a more measured manner.” 

That consideration can be especially important with single-ply roofing systems, including thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and ketone ethylene ester (KEE), which Robert described as particularly slippery. Even roofs with minimal slope can experience sliding snow. As use of these systems continues, he noted, “We are seeing a little bit more in new construction where it's being called for.” 

Although there is no universal required code for snow retention, Robert said individual municipalities, towns or counties may have their own requirements. Building owners also need to consider what could happen below the roof when snow or ice sheds onto people, vehicles or rooftop equipment. Emphasizing that responsibility, he cautioned, “The liability is on the building owner.” 

Selecting the right snow retention approach starts with understanding the roof and project conditions. Anchor Products gathers information including eave-to-ridge dimensions, roof pitch and local snow loads to determine appropriate spacing for brackets and anchors. Its commercial flat-roof options include a two-pipe snow fence system as well as a unitized system for smaller areas requiring spot retention. 

For contractors, understanding how roof slope, membrane type and snow load affect system design can help ensure snow and ice are managed more deliberately instead of shedding unexpectedly. 

Listen to the podcast to learn more about why snow retention should be considered on low-slope commercial roofing projects!

By Jesse Sanchez.

Contractors can reduce liability, strengthen customer relationships and protect profitability by addressing the growing complexity of today’s rooftops. 

During this Coffee Conversations® sponsored by Anchor Products, Heidi J. Ellsworth joined Anchor Products founder Joel Stanley, attorney Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese and roofing technical expert Mark Graham to examine how contractors can better manage rooftop risks. Joel explained that managing rooftop risk requires contractors to look beyond the roofing system itself and consider how equipment, penetrations and other rooftop conditions can affect the overall performance of the building. As rooftops become more complex and more trades interact with them, clearly understanding those conditions can help contractors identify potential issues before they become larger problems. That broader responsibility is especially important from the building owner’s perspective. As Joel put it, “We can't keep pointing the finger at other people because, quite frankly, the building owner doesn't care. He wants water off the floor.” 

That makes planning and clearly defining project scope increasingly important. Trent stressed that contractors should understand their responsibilities before submitting a bid or signing a proposal, particularly as rooftop systems and code requirements become more complex. Pointing to a common weakness in project documentation, he explained, “Contractors do a great job at explaining what they are going to do. They do a horrible job at explaining what they are not going to do.” 

Documentation can provide another layer of protection, especially when equipment, penetrations or other rooftop components are added after a roofing contractor completes a project. Mark encouraged contractors to create a clear record of completed conditions, recommending, “We should be taking post installation photos.” Those records can help establish what was present when the contractor left the project and provide valuable context if questions or claims arise later. 

The panel also emphasized routine inspections, service and maintenance as opportunities to identify unsecured equipment, damaged supports and other developing hazards. By communicating those conditions to building owners, contractors can reduce risk, strengthen trust and uncover additional opportunities to provide valuable rooftop services. 

Safety remains central to that effort, particularly as more trades and building occupants access rooftops. Understanding responsibilities, documenting conditions and addressing hazards proactively can help contractors protect people, projects and profitability. 

Listen to the podcast or Watch the Webinar to learn more about how proactive planning and rooftop risk management can help contractors protect their work and strengthen long-term customer relationships!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

This traveling display is helping roofing professionals explore practical ways to secure equipment, safety systems and other components to rooftops. 

During this live episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Heidi J. Ellsworth joined Anchor Products founder Joel Stanley in Grapevine, Texas, for a tour of the company’s mobile product showcase. The traveling display gives contractors, manufacturers, distributors and design professionals a hands-on look at U-Anchor applications for rooftop equipment, safety systems, pipe supports, solar, snow retention and other uses. Explaining the need for a more visual approach, Joel shared, “We really needed to get out and show people what a U-Anchor is used for because they really only thought it was for what they've used it for in the past. If they’ve only used it for plumbing, then they thought it was a plumbing attachment. But it can be used for solar, safety, so many things.” 

Joel founded Anchor Products nearly 15 years ago after recognizing persistent problems caused by improperly secured rooftop equipment. He developed an attachment method designed to avoid penetrating the roof deck while creating a watertight connection at roof level. 

The mobile showcase demonstrates single-, double- and four-bolt U-Anchor configurations alongside brackets, stands, guardrails, tie-off points and other components. Emphasizing the system’s versatility, Joel explained, “This gives us an opportunity to show that you can have it on the roof. You can have it on walls.” 

Robert Alvarez, Anchor Products’ South Central business development representative, said the mobile display helps roofing professionals understand how the products can be used in real-world applications. Describing the value of a hands-on demonstration, Robert noted, “When you bring people out to actually see it, put their hands on an anchor, they can see how one is constructed.” 

The mobile showcase has traveled to locations across the East Coast, Colorado, Atlanta and other markets. It can be set up in about 20 minutes, giving visitors an opportunity to explore multiple membrane types and equipment configurations in one place. 

Industry professionals can request a visit through Anchor Products or contact a regional representative to review scheduling opportunities. 

Listen to the podcast or Watch the conversation to learn more about how the mobile product showcase helps roofing professionals explore rooftop attachment applications!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Mark Vargas explains how weather, seismic activity and changing codes have transformed the way rooftop piping and equipment are secured. 

Rooftop pipe and equipment supports were once treated as relatively simple components. Today, they play an essential role in protecting roof systems, maintaining warranties and addressing wind and seismic requirements. In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Megan Ellsworth and Mark Vargas, director of business development for AP Roof Services with Anchor Products, discussed how the industry has moved away from fully non-attached support systems. Earlier solutions often relied on wood blocks, plastic bases, rubber blocks or counterweighted systems to hold utilities and equipment in place without penetrating the roof. 

Reflecting on the assumptions that shaped those earlier systems, Mark explained, “But even in heavier applications, the weight of the system would hold the system in place. So, they weren't too concerned about the pipe or equipment on the roof being non-attached.” 

Severe weather and seismic events eventually exposed the limitations of those systems. Pipes could slide across the roof, supports could tip over and uplift forces could loosen equipment. In some cases, piping and equipment became airborne, damaging the membrane or contributing to complete system failures. Emphasizing the risks created by seismic movement, Mark noted, “Even the smallest seismic event can cause shifting in piping and equipment. It can loosen and break connections. It can damage gas, water lines, electrical lines.” 

As failures increased, building codes, specifications and insurance requirements began placing greater emphasis on engineered attachment solutions. Modern systems must account for high winds, seismic forces, heavier equipment and longer equipment life cycles. They also need to be tested, compatible with the roofing system and approved by the roofing manufacturer. 

Describing the standard now expected of rooftop support systems, Mark said, “Now they need to be engineered, they need to be tested, they need to be rated for wind and seismic loads, be compatible with the roofing system, most importantly be approved by the roofing manufacturer.” 

Anchor Products developed the U-Anchor as a compression-free attachment solution that secures rooftop piping and equipment without requiring contractors to open the roof to reach the structure. When installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications, the system can be incorporated into the roof assembly without compromising the membrane or its warranty. 

Looking ahead, Mark expects rooftop attachment systems to remain focused on strength, simplicity, longevity, code compliance and roof compatibility. Feedback from contractors and manufacturers will also continue to shape improvements to the U-Anchor and other support solutions. 

Listen to the podcast or Watch the conversation to learn more about how engineered rooftop support systems can help protect roof performance during severe weather and seismic events!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Brandon Reynolds explains how proper planning, engineered attachment systems and contractor collaboration can protect roofs, buildings and reputations. 

Rooftop equipment can become a serious liability when it is not properly attached to a building’s structure. In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Megan Ellsworth spoke with Brandon Reynolds, regional business manager for Anchor Products, about the codes governing rooftop equipment and the steps contractors can take to reduce damage during wind and seismic events. 

Brandon brings approximately 14 years of commercial roofing experience to the conversation, including work as a roofing inspector, product manager and regional business manager. Drawing on that experience, he explained that changing weather patterns and increasingly frequent wind events have placed greater attention on how rooftop components are supported. Reflecting on the broader impact of severe weather, Brandon observed, “We have more wind events, we have to pay attention to it.” 

Lightweight equipment can present some of the greatest risks. Natural gas lines, condensate piping, air ducts, mini-split units and equipment screens may move, tip over or become airborne during storms. Even when displaced equipment does not leave the roof, it can puncture or abrade the membrane and shorten the service life of the system. Describing the potential danger of unsecured piping, Brandon warned, “When they break free and drop off, that's like a javelin going through the air, a little spear going through the air.” 

The American Society of Civil Engineers’ ASCE 7 standard provides calculations for wind, seismic and other loads. Brandon explained that later editions of the International Building Code reference these requirements and clarify that nonstructural rooftop components must be positively fastened or anchored to the structure. 

Planning should begin before equipment reaches the roof. Contractors need to evaluate the deck, structural supports, insulation, cover boards and roofing membrane. Mechanical and roofing contractors should also coordinate to select attachment methods that minimize penetrations through the membrane and thermal envelope. Encouraging greater cooperation between trades, Brandon advised, “You should design a support system for your mechanical equipment that requires the roofer to cut as few holes as possible into the membrane and through the thermal shell.” 

Anchor Products supports rooftop applications with U-Anchor attachment points, guy wire systems and equipment-screen solutions. Because the U-Anchor creates a watertight connection above the finished roof system, it can support piping, ductwork, guardrails, cameras, conduit and other equipment without relying on loose ballast or unnecessary equipment rails. 

Brandon emphasized that early collaboration can reduce installation challenges, prevent costly retrofits and protect the reputations of everyone involved in the project. 

Listen to the podcast or Watch the conversation to learn more about how code compliance, early planning and engineered attachment systems can help protect rooftop equipment and the roof beneath it!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

An upcoming Coffee Conversations will help contractors uncover hidden rooftop risks and turn them into opportunities for greater protection and profitability. 

RoofersCoffeeShop® brings roofing professionals together with industry experts through Coffee Conversations®, a live webinar series focused on the issues shaping the roofing and construction industries. Each discussion gives contractors practical insights they can use to strengthen their businesses and stay informed. 

In an upcoming Coffee Conversations®, Heidi J. Ellsworth meets with Joel Stanley of Anchor Products, Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese and Mark Graham of the National Roofing Contractors Association to discuss the rooftop risks that may be costing contractors money. Together, they will explore how code changes, improperly installed rooftop equipment, drainage challenges and other overlooked issues can lead to costly failures, callbacks and liability. 

Rooftop risk management is becoming increasingly important as roofing systems grow more complex and contractors are expected to coordinate with additional trades, equipment installers and building stakeholders. Problems may go unnoticed until leaks, system damage or code violations appear, leaving contractors exposed to expenses that could have been prevented. By identifying these risks earlier, contractors can better protect the building, their customers and their own bottom line. 

Joel, Trent and Mark bring valuable perspectives from manufacturing, construction law and the roofing industry. Their combined experience will help attendees understand both the practical and legal consequences of rooftop failures. They will also explain how contractors can stay informed about changing codes, improve rooftop coordination and communicate the value of proactive services without making customers feel like they are being unnecessarily upsold. 

Attendees will learn which rooftop risks are most commonly overlooked and what separates proactive contractors from those who remain stuck responding to emergencies. The panel will discuss inspection programs, maintenance plans and rooftop coordination services that can help prevent failures while creating new sources of recurring revenue. They will also share real-world examples, available solutions and actionable best practices contractors can begin implementing in their businesses. 

Do not wait for the next callback or costly rooftop failure to reveal a preventable problem. Join this expert panel to learn how a stronger approach to rooftop risk management can protect your company and create meaningful opportunities for growth. 

Join Heidi J. Ellsworth, Joel Stanley, Trent Cotney and Mark Graham on August 13, 2026, at 7am PT to learn how to turn rooftop risks into profit. 

Register for this Coffee Conversations® RLW and start building a more proactive and profitable approach to rooftop risk management!