How Pittsburgh’s Weather Impacts Your Roof Year-Round

Protecting Your Home from the Elements with Gerken Roofing

Living in Pittsburgh means dealing with a little bit of everything when it comes to weather—snow, ice, rain, wind, humidity, and even the occasional heat wave. While these conditions make the Steel City unique, they also put your roof to the test year-round. At Gerken Roofing, we understand the local climate and how it affects your home, which is why we’re here to break it down season by season—and offer tips to help your roof last as long as possible.

Winter: Ice Dams, Snow Load & Freeze-Thaw Cycles

Pittsburgh winters are cold, snowy, and often brutal on roofing systems. As snow accumulates and melts, ice dams can form at the edges of your roof, forcing water underneath your shingles and into your attic or walls. Freeze-thaw cycles—where snow melts during the day and refreezes at night—can also cause shingles to crack and lose their seal.

What You Can Do:

• Ensure your attic is properly insulated and ventilated

• Keep gutters clean so melting snow can drain properly

• Consider installing ice and water shields in vulnerable areas

Spring: Rain, Rain, and More Rain

April showers may bring May flowers, but they also bring roof leaks. Pittsburgh’s spring is often damp and unpredictable. If your roof already has damage or worn-out shingles, heavy rainfall can quickly lead to leaks, mold, and rot in the roof deck or attic.

What You Can Do:

• Schedule a spring roof inspection to check for winter damage

• Repair missing or damaged shingles before they become leaks

• Make sure flashing around chimneys and vents is secure

Summer: Heat, Humidity, and UV Damage

While summers in Pittsburgh aren’t as extreme as in the South, we still get our fair share of hot, humid days. Over time, UV rays can weaken roofing materials, dry out sealants, and cause shingles to curl or blister. High humidity can also lead to mold and mildew growth, especially if your attic isn’t ventilated well.

What You Can Do:

• Install proper attic ventilation to reduce heat buildup

• Choose high-quality, UV-resistant shingles if you’re replacing your roof

• Have your roof inspected for signs of sun damage each summer

Fall: Falling Leaves and Hidden Hazards

Autumn in Pittsburgh is beautiful—but those falling leaves can be a big problem for your roof. When gutters become clogged with leaves, rainwater can back up and damage the fascia, soffits, and even your foundation. Fall is also the perfect time to prep your roof for winter.

What You Can Do:

• Clean out your gutters or install gutter guards

• Check for roof damage before winter hits

• Trim back overhanging tree branches to reduce debris

Why Choose Gerken Roofing?

At Gerken Roofing, we’re proud to serve homeowners throughout the Pittsburgh area with roofing solutions built to stand up to our challenging climate. Whether you need a roof inspection, repairs, or a full replacement, our experienced team is here to help you protect your home in every season.

Schedule Your Free Roof Evaluation

Don’t wait until a leak surprises you—get ahead of the damage with a professional evaluation from Gerken Roofing. Contact us today to schedule your inspection and keep your home safe year-round.

Call us or Visit gerkenroofs.com to get started.