Rooftop installations are among the most demanding applications for any support system. Exposure to UV radiation, temperature extremes, wind loads, and rain means your rooftop supports need to be built to last — and installed in a way that doesn’t compromise your roof membrane.

This guide covers the key considerations for rooftop pipe, conduit, and mechanical equipment supports, and introduces the Unistrut Unipier and Roofwalk systems available through Steinco Industrial Solutions.

What Types of Rooftop Support Systems Are Available?

Rooftop support systems fall into two main categories based on how they interact with the roof surface:

Non-Penetrating Supports

Non-penetrating rooftop supports rest on the roof membrane using rubber or polycarbonate base pads that distribute the load without puncturing or anchoring to the roof. This approach is preferred on membrane roofs (TPO, EPDM, modified bitumen) where penetrations would compromise the waterproofing.

The Unistrut Unipier system is the industry-standard non-penetrating rooftop support, available with polycarbonate or steel bases in both elevated and mounted configurations. These supports accept standard 1-5/8″ Unistrut channel for building out the complete support framework above the roof surface.

Penetrating (Anchored) Supports

In some applications — particularly on structural concrete roofs or when wind uplift loads are too high for non-penetrating systems — anchored supports that penetrate the roof structure are used. These require proper flashing and waterproofing at each penetration point.

Understanding the Unistrut Unipier Rooftop Support System

The Unipier system is specifically engineered for rooftop pipe, conduit, and mechanical equipment support. It consists of:

  • Base models: Available in polycarbonate (lightweight, non-conductive, UV-resistant) and galvanized steel (heavy-duty), in both flat-mount and height-adjustable elevated configurations
  • Strut supports: The UP-SPSS and UP-MPDS style supports that attach to the bases and receive standard Unistrut channel
  • Roller supports: Elevated supports with rollers for pipe runs that need to expand and contract thermally
  • Accessories: Spacers, rubber pads, and hardware to complete the installation

Steinco carries the complete Unipier system, including strut supports, conduit and mechanical supports, bases and accessories, and fabricated supports.

What Is the Unistrut Roofwalk System?

For facilities where workers need to access rooftop equipment for maintenance, the Unistrut Roofwalk system provides elevated walkway grating that protects the roof membrane from foot traffic while providing a safe, slip-resistant walking surface.

The Roofwalk system includes:

  • Anti-skid roofwalk grating: Available in 6″, 9″, and 12″ widths for different traffic volumes and equipment access requirements
  • Support stands: Height-adjustable stands that keep the grating elevated above the roof membrane
  • Hold-down clips and support plates: Secure the grating panels to the support stands
  • Bolt assemblies and rubber pads: Protect the membrane at each stand contact point

The Roofwalk system is designed for both standing-seam metal roofs and built-up, membrane, foam, and coated roofs.

Key Design Considerations for Rooftop Support Systems

Wind Uplift

Rooftop equipment and piping are exposed to significant wind forces. Non-penetrating supports must be heavy enough — or ballasted with pavers — to resist wind uplift. For high-uplift applications, anchored systems or supplementary ballasting may be required.

Thermal Movement

Pipes and conduit on rooftops experience substantial temperature swings that cause expansion and contraction. The support system must accommodate this movement — either through pipe rollers (available in the Unipier system) or expansion loops in the piping layout.

Roof Membrane Protection

Every support base must incorporate rubber or polycarbonate pad materials that protect the membrane from point loading and abrasion. The Unipier system’s polycarbonate and steel bases are designed specifically for this purpose.

Support Spacing

The Unistrut Unipier system includes engineering data for support spacing for various pipe and conduit sizes and loads. Following these spacing recommendations ensures the system performs within rated limits.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rooftop Supports

Can I use standard Unistrut channel on a rooftop?

Yes — standard pre-galvanized Unistrut channel can be used on rooftops in most climates. For severe coastal or industrial environments, hot-dip galvanized or stainless steel channel is recommended for better long-term corrosion resistance.

How is the Unipier base attached to the roof?

In non-penetrating installations, the Unipier base simply rests on the roof membrane. The base geometry and pad material distribute the load and prevent sliding. For anchored installations, the base is bolted through the roof with appropriate flashing.

What’s the maximum pipe size the Unipier system can support?

The Unipier system supports a wide range of pipe and conduit sizes. Maximum load capacity depends on the specific base model and support spacing. Unistrut’s engineering documentation provides detailed load data, and Steinco’s team can help you verify your configuration.

Get Rooftop Support Systems from Steinco Industrial Solutions

Steinco Industrial Solutions carries the complete Unistrut Unipier and Roofwalk systems for rooftop installations. With over 30 years of experience supplying strut framing components to contractors and facility managers, we can help you configure the right support system for your roof type, load requirements, and local wind and seismic conditions.
Contact Steinco today to request a quote or to get technical guidance on your rooftop support project. You can also browse our full product line at steincoindustrial.com.