Lehigh Valley homeowners facing storm damage, aging shingles, or drafty attics need reliable roofing crews that understand local weather, permits, and historic homes. This guide points to proven roofers, explains material choices for Bethlehem, Allentown, and Easton properties, and outlines inspection, insurance, and permitting steps to get a durable, code‑compliant roof fast.
Top 5 Roofing Companies in Lehigh Valley, PA
From center‑city rowhouses near the PPL Center to colonial farms along the Lehigh River, these five companies serve the Valley with storm repairs, full replacements, and code‑aware installations.
Lehigh Valley Roofing Specialists
Lehigh Valley Roofing Specialists focuses on asphalt shingle and architectural roofing systems popular across Allentown neighborhoods. The company emphasizes quick storm‑response crews after nor’easters and proactive inspections during freeze‑thaw cycles that cause shingle curling and granule loss.
They handle permit submittals with local municipalities, coordinate tear‑offs, and offer lifetime‑limited shingle warranties plus workmanship guarantees. Here’s why they’re often selected: thorough roof reports, neighborhood references, and experience filing insurance claims for hail and wind.
Allentown Roofing Company
Allentown Roofing Company serves both commercial and residential customers near Center City and surrounding suburbs. Their services include flat roofing systems for townhomes, metal roof installs for barns and detached garages, and energy‑efficient underlayment choices suited to Lehigh Valley’s seasonal swings.
Pro tip: they partner with insulation contractors to reduce ice dams by improving attic ventilation and adding proper ridge and soffit vents, which is critical for older homes in Southside and Cedar Crest neighborhoods.
Bethlehem Roof Pros
Bethlehem Roof Pros specializes in historic restorations and slate shingle replacements for the city’s older rowhouses and Victorian properties. They understand preservation guidelines around Fountain Hill and West Bethlehem, and they can match slate patterns and flashing details to meet local code reviews.
The team also offers storm damage assessments and works with homeowners on mitigation upgrades like hurricane straps and reinforced decking, beneficial for reducing future insurance premiums and meeting municipal building inspections.
Easton Roof & Exteriors
Easton Roof & Exteriors focuses on full exterior remodeling—roofing, gutters, siding, and trim—making them a one‑stop shop for homeowners near the Delaware River and College Hill. They often recommend upgraded starter rows, ice‑and‑water shield in eave zones, and sealed ridge vents for Lehigh Valley winters.
They’re known for transparent estimates that break out material, labor, and permit fees, and for coordinating with historic district offices when projects require special approvals.
Slate & Shingle of Lehigh Valley
Slate & Shingle of Lehigh Valley installs asphalt, architectural shingles, standing seam metal, and natural slate. They emphasize long‑term roof lifespans: architectural shingles for 30+ years, metal for 40–70 years, and properly installed slate for over a century when paired with correct underlayment and flashing.
The crew runs detailed pre‑job assessments, including attic inspections to assess ventilation and insulation gaps—key factors in preventing ice dams and premature shingle failure in this climate.
How to Choose the Right Roofer in Lehigh Valley
Choosing a roofer requires balancing price, local experience, and code knowledge. Look for contractors familiar with Lehigh County permit workflows, Bethlehem and Allentown zoning quirks, and storm‑hardening best practices.
Licensing, Insurance, and Local Permits
Confirm the contractor carries general liability and workers’ compensation insurance and pulls permits required by the municipality—Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton each have different submittal processes. A permit ensures inspections for deck fastening, flashing, and eave protection are completed to code.
Warranty and Workmanship Guarantees
Here’s why warranties matter: material manufacturers cover defects, but workmanship coverage protects against installation errors. Seek a written workmanship warranty (2–10 years typical) and verify manufacturer transferability for long‑term resale value.
Insurance Claims and Storm Repairs
For storm damage, choose a roofer experienced in documenting loss for insurance adjusters—comprehensive photos, measured roof reports, and storm‑event timelines reduce disputes. Pro tip: get at least two written estimates and store them with your claim paperwork.
Roofing Materials Recommended for Lehigh Valley Homes
Lehigh Valley’s mix of historic homes and newer subdivisions requires varied material strategies. Consider local snowfall, freeze‑thaw cycles, and occasional hailstorms when selecting materials.
| Material | Typical Lifespan | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural Asphalt Shingles | 25–40 years | Cost‑effective, many colors, good wind/snow performance | Moderate hail susceptibility, requires good attic ventilation |
| Standing Seam Metal | 40–70 years | Excellent snow shedding, durable, low maintenance | Higher upfront cost, noise during heavy rain if not insulated |
| Natural Slate | 75–100+ years | Historic appeal, long lifespan, fireproof | High cost, needs skilled installers and reinforced decking |
| Rubber/EPDM (for flats) | 20–30 years | Good for low‑slope roofs, cost‑effective | Seam maintenance required, not ideal for heavy foot traffic |
Common Local Roofing Problems and Fixes
Lehigh Valley homes commonly show specific roofing issues tied to climate and construction age. Addressing the root cause prevents repeat repairs.
Ice Dams and Attic Ventilation
Ice dams form when heat escapes into the attic, melts snow on the roof, and refreezes at the eaves. Solution: add insulation, balance soffit and ridge vents, and install ice‑and‑water shield two to six feet into the eave zone depending on roof pitch and history of ice.
Wind and Hail Damage
Spring and summer storms can lift shingles or remove granules. Recommended fixes include upgraded wind‑rated shingles, tapered or taped ridge details, and in hail‑prone areas, impact‑rated shingles or metal panels to reduce future claim frequency.
Flashing Failures on Chimneys and Dormers
Old lead or step flashing can corrode, allowing leaks at chimneys and valleys. Pro tip: replace flashing with code‑approved metal, add counter‑flashing where required, and ensure proper kick‑out flashing at wall intersections to redirect water into gutters.
Getting an Accurate Estimate
An accurate estimate includes roof measurements, tear‑off count (1–3 layers), decking condition notes, ventilation plan, materials list, permit fees, and projected timeline. Ask for a line‑item estimate and a start-to‑finish schedule tied to weather windows common to Lehigh Valley.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
- Can the company show local references from the same neighborhood or street?
- Who will pull permits and schedule inspections with the municipality?
- What is the proposed ventilation and insulation plan to prevent ice dams?
- Do they provide a written workmanship warranty and transferability of manufacturer warranty?
- How do they document storm damage for insurance claims?
FAQ
How long does a typical asphalt shingle roof last in Lehigh Valley?
Architectural asphalt shingles typically last 25–40 years depending on ventilation, attic insulation, and exposure to sun and wind. Proper attic ventilation and timely repairs extend lifespan.
Are permits required for roof replacement in Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton?
Yes—most roof replacements require permits and inspections in these municipalities. Permit requirements vary: some towns require signed contractor affidavits and roof deck inspections, while historic districts may need additional approvals.
Will new roofing affect my homeowner’s insurance?
Installing impact‑ or wind‑rated materials and securing decking and fasteners can lower risk and sometimes reduce premiums. Contractors experienced with insurance claims can document upgrades to help when negotiating rates.
When is the best time to replace a roof in Lehigh Valley?
Late spring through early fall offers the most reliable weather for installations. Avoid peak winter freeze‑thaw cycles that complicate flashing and shingle adhesion; however, emergency repairs are available year‑round after storms.
Next Steps for Lehigh Valley Homeowners
Start with a professional roof inspection from a local contractor who knows Lehigh County codes and neighborhood nuances. Gather two to three written estimates, confirm insurance and permits, and prioritize ventilation and ice‑and‑water protection to protect your investment for decades.