The Life of a Roof in Berks County: How Our Weather Really Impacts Your Shingles

sam86878
Jun 15
2 min read

You might think your roof is just up there, doing its thing. But around here in Berks County, your shingles take more of a beating than you’d guess.

Between cold winters, hot summers, wind storms, and the occasional surprise hail, Pennsylvania weather gives roofs a full workout.

So if you’re wondering: “How long will my roof really last?” — here’s a breakdown of what our local weather is doing up there… and when to call a pro.

☀️ 1. Summer Sun & UV Damage

It’s not just the beach that gives sunburns. UV rays bake your shingles all summer long.

In Berks County, high UV days + humidity cause:

Shingle drying & cracking
Granule loss (the gritty layer that protects shingles)
Warped or curling edges

Pro tip: A drone inspection can catch this damage early — before leaks start.

Bright sunburst with orange and yellow bokeh circles, creating a warm, glowing effect. Mood is vibrant and energetic.

❄️ 2. Freezing Winters & Ice Dams

Come January, it’s a different story. Freeze-thaw cycles wreak havoc:

Water seeps under shingles
It freezes and expands → loosening nails & lifting shingles
Ice dams at eaves → water backs up under your roof

Red Patch Roofing installs proper ice & water shield to help defend your home. But if your current roof lacks it? We should talk.

House with icicles hanging from roof, snow-covered, beige siding, and clear blue sky. Cold winter setting with crisp, bright atmosphere.

🌧️ 3. Heavy Rain

Pennsylvania averages over 40 inches of rain per year — plenty of opportunity for leaks.

If your flashing is weak or your underlayment is compromised, driving rain can force water into your attic faster than you’d think.

Pro tip: If you see ceiling stains after a storm — don’t wait. It rarely gets better on its own.

Rainwater overflows from a metal gutter on a house during a storm. Background shows a blurred tree and more rooftops. Wet and gray mood.

🌬️ 4. High Winds

In recent years, Berks County has seen an uptick in wind storms with gusts 50+ mph.

That can mean:

Shingles blown off
Ridge caps lifted
Nails pulled loose

Architectural shingles, which we recommend, hold up better — but even they can suffer in extreme cases. We can inspect after every major storm to keep your roof protected.

Fallen tree on house in suburban area with yellow "Caution" tape in foreground. Overcast sky, autumn colors, and a feeling of damage.

🌩️ 5. Occasional Hail

We don’t see hail every month — but when we do, it’s nasty.

Hail impacts:

Granule loss → exposes shingle mat to UV
Bruising → weakens waterproof barrier
Small fractures → lead to long-term leaks

Good news? Insurance usually covers hail damage. We help homeowners navigate claims and get their roofs replaced properly.

A damaged shingle on a brown, textured roof marked with white chalk in a half-circle, highlighting the defect. No text visible.

So… How Long Does a Roof Last Here?

Average in Berks County:

3-tab shingles: 12-18 years (if you’re lucky)
Architectural shingles: 20-30+ years with proper care
Metal roofs: 40-50+ years

But here’s the kicker: maintenance matters. Small problems → big costs if ignored.

Final Word From Red Patch Roofing

Your roof is your home’s unsung hero — battling sun, snow, wind, and rain year-round.

As a veteran-owned local contractor, we treat every roof like it protects our own family. If you’re wondering about your roof’s condition — or how to make it last longer — give us a call.

We’ll bring out the drones, the expertise, and the honesty — no “roof replacement roulette” here. Just clear answers.