After severe weather, quick action can prevent small roof issues from becoming costly disasters. This Roof Tarping After Storm Guide explains when temporary tarping makes sense, the materials to gather, crucial safety steps, and how to install and secure a tarp properly. You’ll also learn when to call a professional and how to document damage for insurance claims fast success.
How to Tarp a Roof Temporarily and When to Call a Pro
Temporarily tarp by covering the damaged slope from ridge to eave with a UV-resistant tarp that overlaps edges by at least two feet, then fasten with screws and fender washers into framing. Call a pro if damage spans multiple planes, decking is compromised, or you’re unsure about safety—this Roof Tarping After Storm Guide explains both paths clearly.
Understanding the Importance of Temporary Roof Tarping
Temporary roof tarping shields exposed decking from rain, limits interior leaks, and helps prevent mold and rot. Acting fast can also simplify claims by showing mitigation efforts. Use this Roof Tarping After Storm Guide alongside your Emergency Roof Repair Plan and ongoing Storm Proofing to keep minor issues from becoming structural problems.
Quick Signs You Need Tarping (Post-Storm Checks)
- Missing, cracked, or curled shingles; exposed wood or dark, sagging areas.
- Attic daylight, active drips, or ceiling water stains after rain.
- Granule piles in gutters and debris impact points (branches, hail).
Essential Materials Checklist
- UV-resistant tarp (large enough for 2 ft overlap on all sides)
- Roofing screws or nails with fender washers; hammer or drill; utility knife
- Roofing felt/underlayment, tarp tape/sealing tape, staple gun
- Ladder, gloves, eye protection, non-slip footwear, optional harness
Safety Basics Before You Begin
- Check the forecast; avoid wind, lightning, or slick surfaces.
- Set ladder on firm ground with a spotter; keep your phone accessible.
- Wear PPE and use a harness on steep or high pitches.
Assessing the Damage: Do You Need Tarping?
Start from the ground with binoculars, then inspect the attic for light and leaks. If rain is forecast or you see structural concerns, follow the post-storm steps in this Roof Tarping After Storm Guide and decide between DIY coverage and calling a specialist. When in doubt, Contact 225 Roofers.
How to Tarp a Roof (Step-by-Step)
- Position the tarp: align the top edge near the ridge; unroll down past the damage with 2 ft overlap.
- Secure the top edge first: fasten with screws/washer combos every 24 inches into solid framing.
- Smooth and fasten downward: keep tension even; avoid overstretching that invites tearing.
- Seal edges: apply roofing/tarp tape along perimeters; fold excess back to resist wind uplift.
- Document everything: photos before/after to support insurance and future repairs.
Securing the Tarp Properly: Techniques That Last
Angle fasteners slightly upslope to shed water. Use grommets when available and reinforce stress points with felt beneath the tarp. Recheck tension after 24 hours and after each storm. As emphasized in this Roof Tarping After Storm Guide, a taut, sealed perimeter prevents flutter, leaks, and premature failure.
When to Seek Professional Roof Tarping Services
Call a licensed roofer if slopes are steep, multiple areas are affected, or decking is soft. Pros bring fall protection, heavier tarps, and crew efficiency—and they can coordinate repairs and documentation. Start here: Contact 225 Roofers for rapid assessment and stabilization.
Maintaining and Removing the Tarp
Inspect after every weather event for loose fasteners, tears, and ponding. Clear debris with a broom or blower. When repairs are scheduled, remove fasteners from the bottom up, fold the tarp in sections, and collect stray hardware. This Roof Tarping After Storm Guide recommends keeping the cover only as long as necessary to avoid UV wear.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can a temporary tarp stay on my roof?
Typically a few weeks; inspect frequently. Prolonged exposure degrades material, so schedule permanent repairs quickly, following this Roof Tarping After Storm Guide.
Will tarping affect my insurance claim?
Usually positively—insurers expect mitigation. Keep dated photos, receipts, and notes.
What size tarp should I buy?
Large enough to cover damage plus at least 2 feet of overlap on all sides; bigger is safer.
Can I nail through shingles?
Fasten into framing with washers where possible; minimize shingle penetrations and seal edges.
When is DIY unsafe?
High/steep roofs, structural damage, electrical hazards, or anytime you feel uncertain—then Contact 225 Roofers.
Ensuring Your Home’s Safety After a Storm
Combine this Roof Tarping After Storm Guide with an Emergency Roof Repair Plan and proactive Storm Proofing to minimize damage, control costs, and accelerate recovery.
References
Forbes Home: Your Guide To Dealing With Emergency Roof Repair.
The Washington Post: Why these states are helping people pay for stronger roofs.