Is Your Roof Ready for Summer Storms? 5 Things Every Pennsylvania Homeowner Should Check

As summer hits southeastern Pennsylvania, we start seeing the same pattern: heavy rain, gusty thunderstorms, and the occasional hail burst that shows up out of nowhere. Even if your roof made it through winter, summer storms can exploit weak spots fast—especially around flashing, vents, and gutters.

What we commonly see in Berks County summer storms

Most of the calls we get after a summer storm fall into three buckets:

• Wind damage: lifted or missing shingles (and sometimes ridge caps) that break the seal and let water start working underneath.

• Leaks: usually around roof penetrations like pipe vents, chimneys, and skylights—where flashing or rubber boots have started to fail.

• Gutter overflow: clogged or sagging gutters that can’t move water fast enough, causing overflow at the eaves and water backing up where it doesn’t belong.

Here are five quick checks you can do before the next storm rolls through:

1) Scan for missing, lifted, or creased shingles

After a windy storm, shingles can lift just enough to break the seal—then the next downpour drives water underneath. From the ground, look for:

• shingles that look uneven or “flapping” at the edges

• exposed black underlayment or nail heads

• corners that are curled up

• a patch that looks newer/different than the surrounding shingles

If you notice shingles that look out of place after a storm, it’s worth addressing early—small issues turn into big leaks fast once water gets a path in.

2) Check flashing and seals around roof penetrations

Most leaks we respond to aren’t from the middle of the roof—they’re from the “details.” Pay close attention to:

• plumbing vent boots (rubber can crack and split over time)

• step flashing where the roof meets a wall or chimney

• skylight edges and any sealant lines around them

• rust, gaps, or metal that looks lifted

If wind-driven rain can get under a lifted edge, it will.

3) Clear gutters and confirm downspouts drain away

When gutters clog, water can back up under the first course of shingles and soak the roof deck. It can also overflow and beat up fascia, soffit, and siding. Before storm season, make sure:

• gutters are clear of leaves and debris

• hangers are tight (no sagging sections)

• downspouts are connected and pushing water away from the foundation

• you don’t have water spilling over the gutter edge during heavy rain

If you’ve ever noticed overflow in a downpour, that’s your sign to fix it before the next one.

4) Do a quick attic check after a heavy rain

You don’t need to climb on your roof to find warning signs. In the attic (or the top-floor ceiling area), look for:

• dark water stains on decking or rafters

• damp insulation

• musty smell or visible discoloration near vents/chimneys

• nails that look rusty or “sweating”

Catching these early can prevent a small roof issue from becoming an interior repair.

5) Get a professional inspection if anything looks questionable

Some damage isn’t visible from the ground—and walking a roof can be dangerous. A professional inspection can help identify:

• loose or failing flashing

• early shingle damage you can’t see from the yard

• soft spots, ventilation issues, or hidden leak paths

If your roof is older, has had prior repairs, or you’re seeing any symptoms inside, it’s worth getting it checked before peak storm season.

Need a roof inspection in southeastern PA?

We’re a veteran-owned roofing contractor serving southeastern Pennsylvania with licensed and insured workmanship. If you’re not sure your roof is summer-ready, schedule a free inspection and we’ll give you a straightforward assessment—no pressure.

📞 Call (610) 587-2709💻 redpatchroofing.com