Emergency roofers in Pittsburgh, PA
Need an emergency roofer in Pittsburgh? A limb through the roof, shingles torn off in a storm or water running down a wall means urgent work, and that can't wait for a quote next week. Call us first. We will talk you through what to do and get a tarp or temporary repair on as soon as it is safe.
Rough guide: Tarping usually $300 to $1,200
What to do right now
- Stay off the roof, especially in wind, rain, ice or the dark.
- If water is near light fixtures or outlets, turn that circuit off at the panel.
- Move furniture and electronics, and put down buckets and towels.
- If a ceiling is bulging, stay clear of it and make a small drain hole with a screwdriver.
- Take photos and video before anything is moved, for your insurance company.
- Call us at the number above and tell us what you are seeing.
Temporary now, permanent after
An emergency visit has one goal: stop more water coming in. In wet weather that usually means a heavy tarp fastened over the ridge and battened down, not a roll of plastic held by a few bricks. A temporary repair isn't meant to last, so we come back when it is dry to make the proper repair or give you a price for it.
Tell us if a tree is involved. A limb that has gone through the deck needs a tree crew first, and we can work alongside them.
Storm damage and your insurance
Pittsburgh gets its share of severe summer storms, and straight-line winds can lift shingles over a whole neighborhood. Call your insurance company soon after the storm, keep receipts for any emergency work and hold on to any damaged materials. We photograph the damage and give you a written scope you can send to your adjuster. Read more in our guide to what homeowners insurance covers on a roof.
Be careful with storm chasers who knock on doors after a big wind. Don't sign anything on the spot, and be wary of anyone offering to cover your deductible.
How the work goes
- Call us
A phone call is the fastest way to reach us about active water.
- Make it safe
We tarp or temporarily seal the roof once it is safe to get up there.
- Document it
We take photos and write up the damage for your records and your insurer.
- Permanent repair
We come back in dry weather and fix it properly at an agreed price.
Common questions
How much do roofers charge to tarp a roof?
Usually $300 to $1,200, depending on the size of the opening, the height and the pitch. We give you the price before we put the tarp on.
Can you fix a leaking roof in winter?
Yes. In snow or ice we may start with a temporary repair, then finish the permanent one on the next dry and safe day.
Can a roof be installed in the rain?
No. We can tarp in the rain, but shingles should not go down over a wet deck. Temporary work now and permanent work when it dries is the right order.
Does homeowners insurance cover roof damage from storm?
Wind, hail and fallen tree damage are commonly covered, subject to your deductible and policy. Call your insurer early and keep your photos and receipts.
Do roofers work in the winter?
Yes. Emergency tarps and temporary seals happen in most weather when it is safe. The permanent repair is a separate visit and price, once the roof is dry.
Is roof replacement covered by insurance?
It can be, when a covered event caused the damage. If water is coming in, stop it first, since most policies expect you to prevent further damage. Then call your insurer and keep the receipt.