Preventing failures before they happen

By Jenny Yu.  

A roofing expert discusses the importance of proper roof securement to keep roofs compliant and properties safe. 

When it comes to rooftop systems like ammonia refrigeration lines, proper securement isn’t just about keeping equipment in place; it’s about safety, compliance and protecting major investments. Mark Vargas of Anchor Products has seen firsthand how overlooking roof securement can lead to costly damage and dangerous conditions. 

“In the early years, we could always depend on the weight of the system or ballast to hold utilities down,” Mark said. “That’s no longer permitted now, so we had to find other ways to do it, which Anchor Products has done such a great job of.” 

Ammonia refrigeration lines are critical in cold storage and food processing facilities. Because anhydrous ammonia is toxic, these lines are typically placed on rooftops to keep potential leaks away from occupied spaces. “If there is a leak, it can dissipate into the air,” Mark explained. “But 300 parts per million can be very dangerous. You definitely don’t want to be down in it and have to breathe it in.” 

A real-world example of the risks came when Mark was called to inspect a toppled ammonia line. “There was no storm or earthquake,” he said. “What we found out was there was a wind burst.” The free-floating supports couldn’t handle the sudden pressure, causing a domino effect that left the entire system collapsed. While the line didn’t rupture, the incident forced a shutdown that lasted nearly two months. “It still costs somebody money for that,” Mark said. “And it could have been avoided with proper securement.” 

That’s where Anchor Products’ U-Anchor systems make a difference, providing tested, code-compliant solutions for securing rooftop equipment without damaging the roof or voiding warranties. These systems are quick to install and widely accepted by major roofing manufacturers. 

Mark also emphasized that education and collaboration amongst the different trades is key to preventing major incidents from happening. “Sometimes a mechanical contractor is worried about their system, not realizing how it affects the roof. Roofers tell these other trades, ‘That's not allowed’ because they know the manufacturer's specifications,” he stated. “The trades really have to work together to give the owner the best possible application that’s going to keep the facility and its workers safe.” 

Learn more about how Anchor Products helps ensure rooftop safety and compliance.