Dangers of Using Blue Tarps on Roofs

December 12, 2023

Learn about their inability to protect and risks of mold and pests.

Blue tarp covering rooftop damage on a tile roof, with exposed wooden beams underneath.

After a storm, it's common to see blue tarps covering damaged roofs. While this may seem like a quick and easy fix, it's important to understand that blue tarps are not a long-term solution. They can actually do more harm than good.

Here are some of the reasons why you should not put blue tarps on your roof:


  • Blue tarps do not provide adequate protection from the elements. They are not waterproof, and they can easily tear or blow away in high winds. This means that your roof is still vulnerable to water damage, even if it is covered with a tarp.
  • Nailing the tarp to shingles causes more damage and using sandbags for tile and metal roofing doesn’t prevent the wind from uplifting and causing rain damage.
  • Blue tarps can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew. The tarps trap moisture, which can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. This can damage your roof and your home's interior.
  • Blue tarps can also attract pests, such as rodents and insects. This is because they provide a dark, secluded place for these pests to live. If you have a pest problem, blue tarps can make it worse.


At Crowther Roofing & Cooling, we use products compatible with the existing roofing system. Any roof repairs that don’t use a roofing product could be detrimental to your roofing system. Click here to learn more about our Property Owners

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