If you’re a Twin Cities homeowner, you know our weather isn’t exactly predictable. One minute it’s sunny, the next we’re facing a torrential downpour or a heavy snowstorm rolling in from over Lake Minnetonka. Roof damage can happen fast, whether it’s from hail during a summer storm, ice dams forming along Summit Avenue in St. Paul, or high winds near the Chain of Lakes in Minneapolis. Knowing how to tarp a roof can be your first line of defense against leaks and further damage.
But what happens if you don’t know how to tarp a roof?
Let’s dig into the consequences and what else you can do if tarping isn’t an option for you.
Key Takeaways
- Roof leaks in the Twin Cities lead to water damage, mold, and costly repairs if left untarped.
- Prolonged exposure to rain or snow weakens your home’s structure and raises the risk of expensive collapse.
- Energy bills increase and curb appeal drops when roof damage goes untarped and exposed.
- Allstar Construction provides reliable tarping and roof repairs with transparent pricing and lifetime guarantees.
Water Damage to Your Home’s Interior
In places like Linden Hills or Lowertown, ignoring a leaking roof doesn’t just stop at the attic.
Water can seep into walls, ceilings, and insulation, leading to costly repairs. Without a tarp in place, even a small breach can let in enough moisture to ruin drywall, warp wood flooring, and cause electrical issues.
If you’re not comfortable climbing up to secure a tarp, calling a professional roofing company is your best bet. They’ll not only tarp the roof safely but also assess the full extent of the damage to prevent hidden issues from snowballing into bigger headaches.
Structural Damage from Prolonged Exposure
Twin Cities roofs—whether you’re in a classic Tudor in Mac-Groveland or a contemporary build near Uptown—are built to handle a lot, but they’re not invincible.
When roof damage isn’t covered quickly, moisture from rain or melting snow can compromise the integrity of beams and trusses. Over time, this weakens the overall structure, potentially leading to a sagging roofline or even collapse in extreme cases.
If you can’t tarp the roof yourself, at least cover valuables inside your home and call in a licensed roofer immediately. They can implement emergency measures like board-ups or reinforce the structure to buy you time.
Mold and Mildew Growth Inside Your Home
In humid areas around the Mississippi River or near the Minnehaha Creek watershed, a leaking roof with no tarp is a recipe for mold and mildew.
Moisture trapped in walls or insulation can create the perfect breeding ground for these harmful fungi, which not only damage your home but can also cause health problems for you and your family.
If you can’t learn to tarp, you should at least set up dehumidifiers and fans to reduce moisture levels until a professional can seal the roof properly.
Higher Energy Bills and Reduced Comfort
Whether you live in a cozy Nokomis bungalow or a stately home in Crocus Hill, an uncovered roof allows outside air to infiltrate your home.
- In winter, this means heated air escapes, forcing your furnace to work overtime.
- In summer, cool air leaks out, making your AC unit struggle to keep up with the heat and humidity typical of a Minnesota summer.
If you’re unable to tarp the roof yourself, consider temporarily sealing off the affected rooms and adding extra insulation where possible. This won’t solve the roof issue, but it can help contain temperature fluctuations until a professional arrives.
Compromised Home Value and Curb Appeal
Roof issues left untarped—especially in sought-after neighborhoods like North Loop or Highland Park—can quickly diminish your home’s curb appeal and resale value.
Stains on ceilings, sagging eaves, and visible exterior damage tell potential buyers or appraisers that the home hasn’t been maintained properly.
If you can’t tarp, it’s critical to document the damage and consult with a local roofing company. They can provide not only immediate solutions but also an assessment for your insurance claim to ensure you don’t take a financial hit later.
Expensive Emergency Repairs
Finally, putting off tarping altogether often leads to more severe issues that require emergency roof repairs, usually at a premium. Twin Cities contractors are well aware that demand surges after major storms, especially in neighborhoods like Edina or Roseville, where older homes might already be at risk.
If you’re not confident about DIY tarping, don’t wait until you’re stuck with after-hours emergency fees. Reach out to a trusted, licensed roofing company that can offer proactive solutions to stabilize the situation before it escalates.
Stay One Step Ahead of Roof Damage
Don’t let unpredictable Twin Cities weather catch you off guard. At Allstar Construction, we know how crucial it is to protect your home from leaks, mold, and structural damage.
We offer fast, reliable roof tarping services, along with complete roof repairs and replacements—backed by our transparent pricing, lifetime craftsmanship guarantee, and full licensing and insurance for your peace of mind.
If tarping a roof yourself feels daunting, we’re here to help.
Schedule a roof inspection at (763) 373-1066 or request a free quote today to get your roof—and your home—back in top shape.
