i have one of his pipe anchors too. It has two major flaws that I have found. First, on a steep pitch, it tends to pull up from the pipe when you are on the opposite pitch. This is dangerous. I've watched it happen many times.
Second...and the most obvious...as mentioned previously, it is rare you find an ideally placed vent stack. I use the pipe anchor primarily on lower sloped single story roofs where I want to meet safety code, but don't really need to install an anchor. On anything over 1 story where we need to get on the roof, we stick with the permanent anchors. Not only can you place them ideally for the roof design, but having them be permanently installed also distinguishes and sets you apart as a professional. They meet safety code. Remember...any accident you have on your site will likely trigger a review and if you are using a non approved tie off the fine is hefty. Should anybody ever fall from a failed pipe anchor...I hope for his sake that AC has a very very hefty insurance policy.
I always tell clients the anchors we install are permanent, a one time investment in safety and will be there for the next service professional who comes along. I have never ONCE had an objection to the anchor price....ever. Clients see them as a value added service. When it comes time for the justification as to why we are worth more than the guy on Craigslist, I simply point out the fact we operate safely. It is rare we don't get the job and often times the reason the client says they chose us is because we ARE the only company they talked to who mentions safety. Remember, clients often hire you because they are scared to death of being on the roof.
