Living in the Twin Cities means dealing with weather that keeps you on your toes. One day, you’re brushing off lake-effect snow in Roseville, and the next, you’re cleaning up after a spring thunderstorm in Bloomington.
That’s exactly why more homeowners across Minneapolis and St. Paul are asking about fortified roofs—especially with insurance premiums on the rise and storm damage becoming more common.
So what is a fortified roof, and why does it matter here in the heart of Minnesota? Let’s break it down.
Key Takeaways
- A fortified roof is a stronger roofing system built to protect homes from hail, wind, snow, and heavy rain
- Homes across the Twin Cities stay safer year-round with better protection from storms, ice dams, and wind gusts
- Stronger materials and sealed decks help reduce roof damage in areas like Edina, Minnetonka, and Mendota Heights
- The higher upfront cost often pays off with fewer repairs, lower insurance, and better value in the long run
What Is a Fortified Roof?
A fortified roof is designed to withstand extreme weather better than a traditional roof. It’s part of the FORTIFIED Home™ program, developed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS).
Think of it as a roofing system that’s built to higher standards than local code, focusing on added protection from:
- High winds (like those we get along the Mississippi River Valley)
- Heavy snow and ice (hello, January in Maple Grove)
- Hailstorms (looking at you, Eagan summers)
To qualify as “FORTIFIED,” a roof must meet specific installation and material standards. That includes things like:
- Enhanced roof deck attachment using ring-shank nails
- Sealed roof decks to prevent water intrusion
- Impact-resistant shingles rated for hail protection
- Stronger edges and flashing to resist uplift
In short, it’s not just about slapping on stronger shingles. It’s about improving the entire system to keep your home better protected all year round.
Why Fortified Roofs Make Sense in the Twin Cities
If you’ve lived here for more than a season, you already know—Minnesota weather doesn’t mess around. Here’s how a fortified roof helps tackle the worst of what the Twin Cities throws at us:
1. Winter Protection: Heavy Snow and Ice Dams
From the North Loop to Woodbury, homes deal with serious snow loads.
Fortified roofs are built to handle the extra weight and resist leaks caused by ice dams—a common issue in older homes around Edina and Highland Park.
2. Spring Storms and Hail Resistance
Severe thunderstorms often roll in from the west, hitting areas like Minnetonka and Golden Valley hard.
Fortified roofs use Class 3 or 4 impact-rated shingles, which are much more resistant to hail damage than standard options. That means fewer repairs after every big storm.
3. Wind Resistance for Tornado-Adjacent Weather
While we’re not quite in Tornado Alley, strong wind gusts aren’t rare—especially around open areas like Lake Nokomis or the bluffs near Mendota Heights.
Fortified roofs are tested to stand up to hurricane-force winds, which adds peace of mind even during our wildest weather swings.
4. Year-Round Moisture Defense
With our freeze-thaw cycles and random spring melts, water infiltration is a big concern.
A fortified roof’s sealed deck helps stop leaks before they start—even during those unexpected March warm-ups that send water running down Summit Avenue.
Added Perks Beyond Weather Protection
Fortified roofs don’t just protect your house—they often pay off in other ways, too.
- Lower Insurance Premiums: Some insurers in Minnesota offer discounts for homes with fortified roofs.
- Better Resale Value: Buyers in neighborhoods like Linden Hills or Cathedral Hill are willing to pay more for upgraded, storm-resistant features.
- Peace of Mind: You can’t put a price on knowing your home is secure—whether you’re out ice fishing on Lake Minnetonka or up north at the cabin for the weekend.
Is It Worth the Investment?
In many cases, absolutely. While the upfront cost of a fortified roof is higher than a standard install, Twin Cities homeowners often see long-term savings—especially after avoiding a deductible from hail or wind damage.
And if you’re already considering a roof replacement in areas like Brooklyn Park, Chaska, or Stillwater, upgrading to a fortified system is often just a matter of selecting better materials and hiring a contractor who knows the specs.
Stay Safe in Every Season with a Fortified Roof
Tired of repairing storm damage every spring or dealing with ice dam leaks every winter? A fortified roof is a smart, long-term solution that protects your home from everything our Minnesota seasons throw at it—without constant patch jobs or insurance battles.
At Allstar Construction, we install fortified roofing systems built for our unique Twin Cities climate. We know the neighborhoods, the codes, and the challenges—and we’ll make sure your home is ready for whatever the next season brings.
Contact us today at 763-296-7771 to schedule a roof assessment or request a free estimate. Let’s protect your home the right way.
