Reshaping rooftop security

By Jesse Sanchez.

Transforming rooftop security with innovative attachment solutions that keep equipment in place.

Joel Stanley, the founder of Anchor Products, has spent his career revolutionizing rooftop attachment systems. In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Heidi J. Ellsworth sat down with Stanley to discuss the origins of their product, U-Anchor, and its impact on the industry.

"At the time, there was a big need for aids in attaching things on top of roofs," Joel said. "I was VP of operations for a roofing manufacturer, and we needed a solution to attach rooftop equipment that kept moving around and having issues."

Joel’s journey as an inventor began with a realization at a trade show: if a system could hold a roof down, then something similar should be able to secure rooftop equipment. This observation sparked years of development and refinement, eventually leading to the creation of the U-Anchor system.

Unlike traditional attachment methods that often rely on penetration or cumbersome fasteners, U-Anchor provides a non-penetrating option that minimizes damage to roofing membranes. However, Joel noted that some engineers preferred a penetrative attachment for added security. The system evolved to accommodate both preferences, aligning with industry codes and requirements.

"The code's really pretty simple," Joel explained. "It says that all rooftop equipment must be bolted, welded or otherwise positively fastened to the structure. Well, you have to have a way to do that."

The innovation behind U-Anchor isn’t just about keeping equipment secure — it’s about preserving the integrity of the entire roofing system. Joel, who grew up in the roofing industry, understands the importance of proper waterproofing and installation techniques.

"I got into roofing the hard way. I inherited it," he said. "I was on the roof putting fasteners in when I was 10 years old. I was certainly welding PVC roof membranes by the time I was 12, maybe earlier."

This hands-on experience played a critical role in the development of Anchor Products. Stanley’s background helped him anticipate challenges that contractors and building owners face, allowing him to craft solutions that not only meet code but also maintain the durability of roofing materials.

Beyond just attachments, U-Anchor has become an integral component of resilient roofing systems. With increasing demands for rooftop equipment — from HVAC units to solar panels and communication systems — the need for secure, maintenance-free attachment solutions has never been greater.

Read the transcript or Listen to the podcast to learn more about U-Anchor and its applications!