A pitch pocket is a flanged enclosure around roof penetrations such as pipes and cables. A hollow, cracked, or separated filling can allow water to collect beside the penetration and enter the building.

What to check first

  • Look for separation around each pipe, cable, and pocket wall.
  • Check the pocket flange where it joins the roof membrane.
  • Use a filling and flashing system approved for the existing assembly, not an improvised mix of incompatible sealants.

Follow the connection from top to bottom

  1. Find the upper entry point

    Inspect where flashing ends against a wall, curb, pipe, or other surface. Water entering behind that termination may bypass a patch lower down.

  2. Correct the underlying defect

    Loose metal, rotten wood, failed fasteners, and deteriorated membrane need a suitable repair before waterproofing. A surface bridge needs stable, compatible material on both sides.

  3. Keep the detail functional

    A repair should shed water without blocking outlets, weep paths, or intended movement. Use the specified reinforcement and dimensions for the product and detail.

Watch the field examples

These archive demonstrations show individual projects. Use the current guidance above and Bergstrom’s published instructions if an older video shows a different product or method. Torch work shown in installation videos is professional work.

Watch Pitch Pocket Leaks: What to Inspect Around Pipes and CablesOpens on YouTube ↗

From the project archive

Pitch Pocket has foam insulation around pipe preventing a good seal
Historical project photo · Flat Roof Doctor
This Pitch pocket need to be filled again
Historical project photo · Flat Roof Doctor
Dried tar in a pitch Pocket will cause leaks on a flat roof
Historical project photo · Flat Roof Doctor

Product reference: Bergstrom Industries’ published knowledge catalog. Follow the latest product label and safety information. Historical project examples are educational and are not a specification for every roof.