Roof Leak Repair in Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania
Dealing with a roof leak? Big Fish Roofing provides fast, professional roof leak repair for homeowners and businesses across Western Pennsylvania. A leaking roof can cause thousands of dollars in structural damage, mold growth, and ruined insulation if left unaddressed: even a small drip can lead to major problems over time. Our experienced crews locate the source of every leak, repair the damage, and make sure your roof is watertight before we leave. We fix leaks from storm damage, aging materials and failed flashing, from emergency tarping to the permanent repair. Call 724-954-3827 or fill out the form to schedule your free roof leak inspection.
Big Fish Roofing finds and fixes roof leaks for homeowners in Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania, from lifted shingles and cracked pipe boots to failed chimney flashing. Half the repairs we sold from November 2024 to October 2026 cost between $500 and $1,980, and most leak repairs are finished in a single day. Emergency tarping is available.
Last updated October 2026.
How much does roof leak repair cost in Pittsburgh?
Of the repairs we sold from November 2024 to October 2026, the median was about $1,040, and the middle half ran from about $500 to $1,980. A new pipe boot or a few shingles sits at the low end; chimney reflashing, valley work and leaks that have rotted the decking sit at the high end. We inspect first and give you a written price before any work starts.
What should I do if my roof is leaking right now?
Put a bucket under the drip, move furniture and electronics away, and if you can reach the attic safely, set a board across the joists with a bucket on it to catch water before it soaks the ceiling. Do not climb onto a wet roof. Call (724) 954-3827 and we will schedule emergency tarping.
How do you find where a roof is leaking?
Water often enters in one spot and runs along rafters or sheathing before it drips through a ceiling, so the stain is rarely under the hole. We check the attic for wet decking, then inspect the roof around chimneys, vents, skylights and valleys, using a drone where the roof is too steep to walk safely.
Why does my roof leak in winter?
A common cause of winter leaks around Pittsburgh is ice dams. Heat from the house melts snow on the upper roof, the water refreezes at the cold eaves, and the meltwater behind the ice backs up under the shingles. The fix is better attic ventilation and insulation, plus ice and water shield at the eaves when the roof is replaced.
Should I repair the leak or replace the roof?
Repair it when the leak comes from one spot, such as one pipe boot or one section of flashing, and the rest of the roof is sound. Replacement is the better choice when leaks appear in several places, the shingles are curling or bald across the roof, or the decking is soft. We give you an honest recommendation either way.
Does homeowner’s insurance cover a roof leak?
It usually covers leaks caused by a sudden event such as wind, hail or a fallen tree, but not leaks from age, wear or skipped maintenance. You file the claim with your insurer. We document the damage and send supplements to your insurer when the adjuster’s estimate leaves out work the roof needs.
Common leak sources and fixes
| Where it leaks | What you usually see inside | Typical repair |
|---|---|---|
| Pipe boot (plumbing vent) | Stain on a ceiling near a bathroom or kitchen | Replace the boot and reseal the shingles around it |
| Chimney flashing | Stain on the ceiling or wall next to the chimney | Reflash with new step and counter flashing |
| Valley | Stain under where two roof slopes meet | Replace worn valley shingles or metal |
| Skylight | Drips at the skylight frame | Reflash the skylight; clear a clogged weep system |
| Missing or lifted shingles | Stain after wind-driven rain | Replace and reseal the shingles |
| Ice dam | Stain at an outside wall in winter | Repair the area, then improve ventilation and insulation |
Related pages
Signs of a Roof Leak
Catching a roof leak early can save you thousands of dollars and prevent serious structural damage. Many leaks go undetected for months because water travels along rafters and sheathing before showing up inside your living space. Watch for these warning signs: water stains on ceilings or walls that grow after heavy rain; mold or mildew growth in your attic or around window frames; missing, cracked, or curling shingles; sagging roof decking visible as dips or waves in your roofline; dripping or dampness in your attic after storms; and granule buildup in your gutters signaling shingle deterioration. Big Fish Roofing offers free leak inspections across Western Pennsylvania to identify the source of your problem and recommend the right repair. Call 724-954-3827 to schedule yours.
Schedule Your Free Roof Leak Inspection
A roof leak won’t fix itself, and the damage grows the longer it runs. Big Fish Roofing provides free, thorough leak inspections across Western Pennsylvania. We find the source, explain your options, and get your roof sealed fast. Call 724-954-3827 to schedule yours.
Common Causes of Roof Leaks
Most roof leaks in Pennsylvania trace back to a handful of common issues. Storm damage is the leading cause — high winds lift shingles, hail cracks them, and falling branches puncture roofing materials. Aging shingles curl, crack, and lose granules after 15 to 20 years, creating pathways for water to reach the deck. Flashing failure around chimneys, skylights, vents, and valleys is one of the most frequent causes of persistent leaks. Ice dams form when attic heat melts snow that refreezes at the eaves, trapping water that backs up under shingles: a common problem in Pennsylvania’s freeze-thaw winters. Poor attic ventilation and clogged gutters also contribute by trapping moisture and forcing water under your roof’s edge. Big Fish Roofing diagnoses the root cause of every leak, not just the symptom, so you get a repair that lasts.
Roof Leak Repair vs. Roof Replacement
Not every roof leak means you need a full replacement. Repair is typically the right choice when damage is isolated, a section of damaged flashing, a few missing shingles, or a leak around a single penetration. If your roof is under 15 years old and in good overall condition, a localized repair restores its integrity at a fraction of replacement cost. Repairs in Pennsylvania typically range from $300 to $1,500. Replacement becomes the better option when leaks are widespread, repairs have become frequent, or your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan. A full replacement in Pennsylvania typically ranges from $8,000 to $20,000 depending on size, pitch, and material. Insurance may cover part or all of a replacement if the leak was caused by a covered event like a storm. Big Fish Roofing gives you an honest assessment every time, we never push a replacement when a repair will do the job, and we never patch a roof that should be replaced.
Residential Roof Leak Repair
Big Fish Roofing provides roof leak repair for homes of all sizes across Western Pennsylvania. Our process starts with a thorough inspection to locate where water is actually entering your roof, not just where it shows up inside. Our crews handle everything from shingle replacement and flashing repair to vent boot sealing, skylight re-flashing, and valley repair. For emergencies, we offer tarping and temporary weatherproofing until permanent repairs can be completed. If your leak was caused by storm damage, Big Fish Roofing handles the insurance claims process from start to finish: documentation, filing, adjuster meetings, and settlement. Call 724-954-3827 to schedule your free inspection.
Commercial Roof Leak Solutions
Flat and low-slope roofing systems on commercial properties are prone to ponding water, membrane deterioration, and seam failures. Big Fish Roofing provides roof leak repair for commercial buildings — offices, retail centers, warehouses, restaurants, and industrial facilities across Western Pennsylvania. We service TPO, EPDM, modified bitumen, built-up roofing, and metal panel systems. Services include membrane patching, seam re-welding, flashing repair, drain clearing, and full section replacement. For chronic issues, we install tapered insulation to eliminate ponding and apply elastomeric coatings for a smooth waterproof barrier. Our crews work around your business schedule to minimize disruption.
What Homeowners Say About Big Fish Roofing
Our customers trust Big Fish Roofing because we deliver honest assessments, quality materials, and workmanship that stands the test of time. Here’s what a few of our satisfied clients have to say about working with our team.
Big Fish did a new roof and some gutter/downspout work for us. Everything looks great. I highly recommend them.
They started at 7 am and we had a very good looking roof by about 2pm. Very pleased. This entire experience was Great and the team was excellent to work with from start to finish. Price was very competitive and high quality.
My experience with Marc Kania was top notch. He was very professional, and responsive to our needs. I was very pleased with the entire process, and would definitely recommend him!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does roof leak repair cost?
Roof leak repair costs in Pennsylvania typically range from $300 to $1,500 depending on the location and severity of the leak. Simple repairs like replacing a few shingles or sealing a vent boot may cost $300 to $500, while more involved work like chimney flashing replacement or valley repair may run $800 to $1,500. If the leak has caused damage to the roof deck or underlying structure, additional costs may apply. Big Fish Roofing provides free inspections and detailed estimates so you know exactly what to expect before any work begins.
How do I find where my roof is leaking?
Finding the exact source of a roof leak can be difficult because water often enters the roof in one location and travels along rafters or sheathing before dripping into your living space. Start by checking your attic during or after rain for wet spots on the underside of the roof deck. Look around penetrations like vents, chimneys, and skylights: these are the most common leak points. On the exterior, look for missing or damaged shingles, cracked flashing, or deteriorated sealant. If you cannot locate the source, call Big Fish Roofing for a professional leak detection inspection.
Can I temporarily fix a roof leak myself?
For an emergency temporary fix, you can place a bucket under the drip inside your home and use roofing cement or a tarp on the exterior to slow the water intrusion. Roofing cement can be applied to small cracks or gaps as a short-term seal. A tarp secured over the damaged area with weights or boards can protect your home until a professional repair is completed. However, these are temporary measures only, a proper repair by a qualified roofer is necessary to permanently stop the leak and prevent further damage.
Does homeowner's insurance cover roof leak repair?
Homeowner’s insurance typically covers roof leaks caused by sudden, accidental events like storms, hail, fallen trees, or wind damage. Leaks caused by normal wear and tear, deferred maintenance, or aging materials are generally not covered. The specifics depend on your policy and your insurer. Big Fish Roofing works directly with insurance companies and handles the claims process from documentation to settlement, making sure you receive the full coverage you are entitled to.
How quickly can you respond to an emergency roof leak?
Big Fish Roofing understands that a roof leak is an urgent situation. We prioritize emergency leak calls and work to get a crew to your property as quickly as possible. In most cases, we can provide emergency tarping or temporary weatherproofing within 24 to 48 hours to protect your home from further damage while we schedule the permanent repair. Call 724-954-3827 to report an emergency roof leak.
How long does a roof leak repair take?
Most roof leak repairs can be completed in a single day. Simple repairs like shingle replacement or vent boot sealing may take just one to two hours. More complex work like chimney re-flashing, valley repair, or repairs involving damaged decking may take a full day. If your roof has extensive damage that requires multiple areas of repair, the project may span two or three days. Big Fish Roofing provides a clear timeline during your estimate so you know what to expect.
What causes flashing leaks?
Flashing leaks occur when the metal strips that seal joints and transitions on your roof fail. This can happen due to corrosion over time, thermal expansion and contraction that breaks the sealant bond, improper installation during the original roofing job, or physical damage from storms or debris. Flashing around chimneys, skylights, dormers, and roof valleys is especially vulnerable. When flashing fails, water channels directly into your home at these transition points. Flashing repair or replacement is one of the most common and effective roof leak repairs.
Can a leaking skylight be repaired?
Yes. Skylight leaks are one of the most common roof leak complaints and are almost always repairable. The leak is usually caused by deteriorated flashing or sealant around the skylight frame rather than the skylight unit itself. Repair typically involves removing the old flashing, installing new step and counter flashing, and sealing the assembly with high-quality roofing sealant. In some cases, the skylight’s weep system may be clogged and simply needs to be cleared. Big Fish Roofing repairs skylight leaks regularly and can determine the best fix during a free inspection.
Why does my roof leak around the chimney?
Chimney leaks are extremely common because the chimney is one of the largest penetrations through your roof, creating a complex intersection of masonry, flashing, and roofing materials. The most frequent causes are deteriorated chimney flashing, cracked chimney crowns, damaged mortar joints, and missing or worn chimney caps. Over time, the sealant between the flashing and masonry dries out and cracks, allowing water to seep behind the flashing and into your home. A proper chimney leak repair involves replacing the step flashing, counter flashing, and sealant to create a watertight seal.
Can a flat roof leak be repaired?
Yes. Flat roof leaks can almost always be repaired, and the repair method depends on the roofing material. For TPO and EPDM membranes, repairs typically involve cleaning the area and applying a patch with heat welding or adhesive. Modified bitumen and built-up roofing can be patched with compatible membrane material and sealant. For chronic flat roof leak issues, an elastomeric coating can be applied over the entire surface to create a smooth waterproof barrier. Big Fish Roofing services all major flat roofing systems on commercial and residential properties.
How do ice dams cause roof leaks?
Ice dams form when heat escaping from your attic melts snow on the upper portion of your roof. The meltwater flows down to the colder eaves where it refreezes, creating a ridge of ice that blocks further drainage. Water trapped behind the ice dam backs up under your shingles and seeps through the roof deck into your home. Ice dams are a common cause of winter roof leaks in Pennsylvania. Prevention involves improving attic insulation and ventilation to keep the roof surface uniformly cold. If ice dams are already causing leaks, Big Fish Roofing can install ice and water shield membrane in vulnerable areas during your next roof repair or replacement.
Will a roof leak cause mold?
Yes. Mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours of water intrusion. A roof leak that goes undetected or unrepaired creates a persistently damp environment in your attic, walls, and insulation that is ideal for mold growth. Mold can spread quickly through building materials and may cause health issues including respiratory problems, allergic reactions, and worsened asthma symptoms. This is one of the most important reasons to address roof leaks promptly, the cost of mold remediation can far exceed the cost of a timely roof repair.
How can I prevent roof leaks?
Regular roof maintenance is the best way to prevent leaks. Have your roof professionally inspected at least once a year and after any major storm. Keep gutters clean so water drains properly. Trim tree branches that overhang your roof. Check attic ventilation and insulation to prevent ice dams and condensation. Address minor issues like cracked sealant, loose flashing, or damaged shingles immediately before they become active leaks. Big Fish Roofing offers annual roof maintenance inspections to catch small problems before they turn into expensive repairs.
Do you repair roof leaks caused by storm damage?
Yes. Storm damage repair is one of Big Fish Roofing’s core services. We repair roof leaks caused by wind, hail, fallen trees, and heavy rain. Our team handles the entire process, from emergency tarping to permanent repair to insurance claims. We document all damage thoroughly, file the claim on your behalf, meet with your insurance adjuster, and ensure you receive fair compensation. You should not have to navigate the insurance process alone after a storm damages your roof.
What should I do if my roof is leaking right now?
If your roof is actively leaking, take these steps immediately: place buckets or containers under the drip to catch water, move furniture and valuables away from the affected area, and if you can safely access the attic, place a board across the joists and set a bucket on it to catch water before it soaks through the ceiling. Do not attempt to climb onto a wet roof. Call Big Fish Roofing at 724-954-3827 to report the emergency, we will dispatch a crew to tarp and protect your home as quickly as possible.
What areas in Pennsylvania does Big Fish Roofing serve for roof leak repair?
Big Fish Roofing provides roof leak repair services across the greater Pittsburgh area and Western Pennsylvania. If you need an emergency repair or a scheduled inspection, our crews are ready to help. If you are unsure whether we serve your area, call us at 724-954-3827 and we will let you know.
Stop the Leak Before the Damage Spreads
Every day a roof leak goes unrepaired, the damage gets worse and the cost goes up. Big Fish Roofing provides fast, professional roof leak repair across Western Pennsylvania, from emergency tarping to permanent fixes. Call 724-954-3827 for your free inspection.