A roofing anchor plate secures a waterproof membrane to a surface of a roof structure. The roofing anchor plate includes a circumferential channel and radial channels. Air trapped between the anchor plate and a sealing tape is directed along the channels to vent holes positioned at inner ends of the radial channels. The trapped air passes through the vent holes into a cavity formed under the anchor plate between the plate and the waterproof membrane. The elimination of trapped air improves the strength and effectiveness of the seal.