How to Prepare Your Pittsburgh Roof for Summer Storm Season
Pittsburgh's peak severe storm season runs from June through September, when the region averages 8 to 12 severe thunderstorm events capable of producing hail, damaging winds exceeding 60 mph, and localized flooding. The best protection is a pre-storm inspection in May or June to identify and address vulnerabilities before they become emergency situations. Pittsabana Roofing provides pre-storm assessments with same-day estimates for any identified deficiencies.
Pittsburgh's Summer Storm Profile: What Your Roof Faces
Western Pennsylvania sits at the eastern edge of the Midwest's severe storm corridor. Summer convective storms — triggered by Gulf moisture meeting cold Canadian air over the Alleghenies — can be intense and fast-moving.
- Hail events: Pittsburgh averages 3–5 significant hail events per summer; golf-ball sized hail has been documented in Allegheny County
- Straight-line winds: Derecho events can generate 70–90 mph wind gusts along the I-79 corridor
- Heavy rain intensity: 2–4 inch rainfall events in under 2 hours overwhelm older valley drainage systems
- Lightning: Direct lightning strikes to chimneys and rooftop penetrations cause structural damage
- Large tree damage: Mature trees in Fox Chapel, Sewickley, and other wooded communities create significant storm-related roof damage risk
Pre-Storm Season Checklist (Do This in May or June)
Completing these preparatory actions before storm season can prevent emergency repairs and insurance claims. Most items can be addressed during a single Pittsabana inspection visit.
- Trim tree branches within 10 feet of the roof surface
- Clear all gutters and ensure downspouts direct water at least 6 feet from foundation
- Check and tighten any loose ridge cap shingles — these are the first to blow off in high winds
- Inspect and re-seal any exposed flashing edges at chimneys and valleys
- Verify that your homeowner's insurance is current and covers wind/hail damage
- Locate and save Pittsabana's emergency storm line: (412) 580-6567
- Take date-stamped photos of your current roof condition as pre-storm documentation
What to Do Immediately After a Summer Storm Hits Your Pittsburgh Home
The first 48 hours after storm damage are critical for insurance claim success. Following this sequence protects your claim and prevents secondary water damage.
- Do NOT climb on the roof yourself — contact a licensed contractor
- Document from the ground: photograph any visible damage immediately
- Call Pittsabana for emergency assessment: (412) 580-6567 (24/7 response)
- If active water intrusion, we deploy protective tarping before filing your claim
- Contact your insurance company AFTER you have professional damage documentation
- Do NOT accept immediate payment offers from your insurer before a professional scope is prepared
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Pittsburgh have a lot of roof-damaging storms?
Yes. Pittsburgh averages 35–40 severe thunderstorm events per year, with peak activity from June through September. Western Pennsylvania sees hail, damaging winds, and heavy rain that are among the most damaging weather patterns for residential roofs on the East Coast.
What should I do if hail damages my Pittsburgh roof?
Call Pittsabana immediately at (412) 580-6567 for a professional damage assessment. We document all hail damage with photos and measurements suitable for insurance claim submission, and we coordinate directly with your insurance adjuster to maximize your covered claim.
Need Expert Advice for Your Roof?
Pittsabana's CertainTeed-certified team provides free inspections and honest assessments for Pittsburgh-area homeowners.