What is a Pitch Pocket?

What’s the Purpose Of Pitch Pockets

First let’s start with its use. A pitch pocket is used on both sloped and flat roofs to provide a water-tight seal around columns or other roof penetrations. On traditional installations, metal boots or pipe sleeves are used for water-tight protection but often a specialty flashing is required, this is also called a pitch pocket. A pitch pocket is usually made from sheet metal such as aluminum or steel and is fitted around the rooftop penetration to protect the roof from moisture.

Integrity and Water Resistance

Any type of flat roof penetration can compromise the integrity and weather-resistance of an entire roof. These openings can allow moisture to get into the insulation and framing below the roof membrane which can lead to rotting, mold, and other roof problems. Whenever a penetration or installation is made on a flat roof, metal flashing and counter flashings are installed.
A traditional pitch pocket resembles a top hat with an open top and bottom. The flanges at the bottom of the pitch pocket are fastened to the top of the roof structure with vertical sections that are fitted around the unit, pipes or other rooftop equipment installed on the roof. The open seam is aligned using built-in connectors or grooves. Houston Roofing Contractors usually build and install custom pitch pocket models which will require welding or special adhesive to ensure a water-tight seal. Some pitch pockets models can also be hammered together using an interlocking seam.

A Better Process

Coal or tar pitch used to be the material of choice to seal equipment to the roof decking which is where the name “pitch pocket” comes from. Currently, hot asphalt or grout is poured into the top of the pitch pocket to form a tight seal. Filling in the gaps between the base of the pocket and the roof is what prevents water from leaking into the roof so a roofing expert must know the right material to use for each different type of roofing system.

Roof Top Equipment Installation

Roofing Contractors also install rooftop equipment as well as pitch pocket installation afterward. They should understand that a pitch pocket is not designed to prevent shifting or movement of a rooftop object; the rooftop equipment must be installed properly first. If it is deemed necessary due to the rooftop equipment or age of the roof, a storm collar or other type of counter flashing can be installed to ensure there are no roof leaks. A storm collar is fitted tightly around the protruding pipe and extended out the base covering the top of the pitch pocket.

Pitch pocket services:

  • pitch pocket repair
  • pitch pocket installation
  • pitch pocket reinforcement
  • pitch pocket replacement
  • rooftop equipment installation


After The Storm

Storm Damage Contractors

A good storm and water damage restoration contractor understands that in hurricanes, tornadoes and other natural disasters it may not be possible to delay repair until the homeowner reaches their insurance carrier for settlement but still will work with your insurance company to ensure proper processing of your claims. They may be listed as a preferred service provider with your insurance company making the claim payment process even easier. But, there also may be a bit too much loyalty there. When you’re deciding to work with a Storm Damage Restoration Company you should check the contractor’s experience and training and certification from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC).

Storm Damage Restoration

Water and storm damage restoration services most often times are needed in the aftermath of severe weather conditions. Storms may involve severe rain, snow, ice, wind, hail, or lightning, which can cause a variety of types of damage to homes and businesses. Rain, snow, and ice can lead to flooding, water damage, and mold. Wind and severe precipitation can result in structural damage to homes, garages, sheds, and other buildings. Lightning strikes can cause fires resulting in fire or smoke damage even if the fire is quickly extinguished. Prompt attention from storm remediation experts can help homeowners and business owners with clean up and repair the damage before the damage becomes severe enough to create a total loss.

Water Damage


Wind Damage

Wind damage and lightning strikes can lead to a large amount of debris as well as potential structural damage. High winds can cause roof damage, sometimes requiring a new roof. Trees can fall on homes or other buildings, causing great damage. Contractors can help clean up the debris quickly and install tarps, boards, or other temporary measures to prevent further damage. The team can help assess for any structural damage and provide or coordinate necessary repairs. Wind damage and lightning strikes can lead to a large amount of debris as well as potential structural damage. If trees fall on homes or other buildings, causing great damage. Storm damage restoration contractors can help clean up the debris quickly and install tarps, boards, or other temporary measures to prevent further damage. The team can help assess for any structural damage and provide or coordinate necessary repairs.

Lightning Damage
