Roof tarping is an essential emergency procedure that acts as a temporary shield against rain and debris. When done correctly, a tarp can shield a home for up to 90 days, preventing costly issues like mold, wood rot, and interior water damage.
This guide provides a clear, step-by-step approach to securing your home until a professional team like Saratoga Roofing can perform a permanent repair.
Prioritizing Safety Before You Climb
Roof work is inherently dangerous, especially when conditions are already compromised. Before hauling a heavy tarp up a ladder, you must prioritize safety.
Never attempt to tarp a roof during a storm, lightning, or when the surface is wet and slippery.
Before climbing, inspect the roof from the ground using binoculars to identify missing shingles or sagging areas.
NOTE: If you notice signs of structural deterioration or dry rot, the area must be evaluated by a competent professional to prevent a collapse.
Always wear non-slip shoes, gloves, goggles, and a safety harness. Once on the roof, remove branches, leaves, and sharp debris with a broom.
This allows the tarp to lay flat and prevents sharp objects from puncturing the material.
Choosing the Right Materials and Tools
Choosing a tarp based on your specific situation is critical, as the wrong material can fail and cause more damage.
Opt for heavy-duty polyethylene (PE) or UV-treated vinyl. You should avoid canvas, as it absorbs water, which creates more problems for a leaking roof.
Select the right thickness based on how long you need the repair to last. Use 10 to 16 mil for short-term emergency use (1–3 weeks).
If you are waiting for a comprehensive roof replacement, use 20 mil or higher for long-term exposure.
Regarding size, measure the damaged area and add at least 3 to 4 feet of overhang on all sides to ensure a proper buffer.
NOTE: Silver or white tarps are excellent for hot climates as they reflect heat, while blue tarps should be UV-treated to resist sun degradation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installation
Installing a tarp correctly ensures water flows off your roof rather than under the covering.
1. Position Over the Peak
Always pull the tarp over the roof ridge (the peak), even if the damage is only on one side. This acts like a hood, preventing rainwater from running underneath the top edge of the tarp.
2. Tension the Material
Ensure the tarp is snug but not overstretched like a drum, which could cause it to tear. Avoid wrinkles or folds where water can trap or pool.
3. Manage Drainage
The tarp must be installed at an angle to allow water to drain naturally. If the roof is flat, you may need to use wooden blocks under the tarp to create an artificial slope.
4. Secure Without Nails
Using fasteners like nails directly into shingles can void warranties and create new leak points. Instead, use the weighted method by placing sandbags or water tubes along the edges. Alternatively, utilize the sandwich board method: roll the tarp edges around 2×4 boards, then screw the boards to each other to hold the material down.
NOTE: Securing with weights provides the protection you need without causing additional injury to the structure.
Maintenance and Insurance Documentation
A tarp is a temporary measure, not a permanent cure. Check the tarp after every rain or wind event for pooling water or shifting.
A flapping tarp wears out five times faster than a tight one.
For your financial protection, take photographs of the damage and the tarp installation for insurance purposes.
Save all receipts for materials purchased, as insurance companies often reimburse these costs.
While you are inspecting the roof, it is also wise to check your siding for any related storm damage.
Secure Your Home for the Long Term
Properly tarping your roof prevents minor leaks from turning into major structural failures.
However, remember that tarps are a stopgap, not a permanent fix. Do not make extensive permanent repairs until an insurance adjuster has assessed the damage.
Once the storm passes and your home is dry, contact a trusted expert for a professional roof installation to restore your home’s safety and value.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can a tarp stay on a roof?
A heavy-duty tarp (20 mil or thicker) can protect a roof for up to 90 days. However, lighter tarps (10-16 mil) are generally intended for 1 to 3 weeks of use.
Can I nail a tarp to my roof?
It is not recommended to nail a tarp directly into shingles as it creates new holes and can void warranties. Using sandbags or wrapping the tarp around boards is a safer method.
What is the best color tarp for a roof?
Silver or white tarps are best for hot climates because they reflect heat. Blue tarps are standard but ensure they are UV-treated so they do not degrade in the sun.
Can I tarp a wet roof?
No. You should never walk on a wet roof as it is extremely slippery and dangerous. Wait until the rain stops and the roof dries before attempting installation.
How much overhang should the tarp have?
You should measure the damaged area and add at least 3 to 4 feet of overhang on all sides to ensure water does not blow underneath the covering.
What if my roof is flat?
If you have a flat roof, you need to create an artificial slope. Place wooden blocks or props under the center of the tarp so water can drain off rather than pooling.
Does insurance cover roof tarping?
Yes, most insurance policies require homeowners to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage. They often reimburse the cost of materials and labor for emergency tarping.
Why do I need to go over the roof peak?
Going over the peak prevents water from slipping under the top edge of the tarp. It acts like the hood of a raincoat, directing water down and away from the damage.
Can I use a canvas tarp?
Avoid canvas tarps for roofing emergencies. Canvas absorbs water, which can become heavy and allow moisture to seep through to the roof deck.
Do I need professional help to tarp a roof?
If the roof is steep, the damage is extensive, or you are uncomfortable with heights, you should hire a professional. Safety is the most important factor.