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How Do You Safely Tarp a Roof After a Storm?

Last updated October 23, 2026

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The short answer

Assess Safety Before Starting

Before you think about getting on the roof, take a thorough look from the ground with binoculars. Look for obvious hazards like downed power lines, large debris, or significant structural sagging. If the damage is extensive or you see any electrical hazards, do not attempt to tarp the roof yourself. Climbing onto a compromised structure is extremely risky and could cause further injury or damage.

If the damage appears minor and localized, you might proceed with caution. Ensure you have a safe, sturdy ladder and a spotter. The roof itself may be slippery from rain or have hidden soft spots. Remember, your safety is the top priority, and in many cases, this is a job for a roofer or the pros who have the proper equipment and experience.

Gather the Right Materials

You need a heavy-duty, waterproof tarp, often called a roofing or contractor-grade tarp. A standard blue poly tarp is usually not sufficient for a lasting temporary patch. Choose a tarp large enough to cover the damaged area and extend at least three to four feet over the roof's peak. This overage helps ensure water runs off the tarp and not underneath it.

You also need the proper fastening materials. Use long, straight wooden lath strips or two-by-fours to secure the tarp. Do not nail or staple the tarp directly to the roof, as this can create new holes. Use long roofing nails or screws with fender washers to secure the wood strips over the tarp's edges. Have a hammer, a cordless drill, and safety gear like gloves and sturdy shoes.

Secure the Tarp Properly

Start by carefully unfolding the tarp on the ground. Use your ladder to pull the tarp up onto the roof, ensuring it covers the damaged area completely. The tarp should be centered over the leak or hole. Position it so that the top edge goes over the roof's ridge, the highest point. This is crucial for preventing water from pooling behind the tarp and seeping in.

Avoid Common Mistakes

A frequent error is using too few fasteners or weak materials. Wind can easily get under a loosely secured tarp and tear it off, causing more damage. Ensure your wooden strips are placed every one to two feet along all edges of the tarp. Do not rely on sandbags, bricks, or ropes alone, as these are ineffective against strong wind and rain.

Another mistake is improper placement. Never tarp just the hole; always extend the coverage well beyond the damaged spot. The tarp should direct all water down the roof slope and into the gutters. If you tarp a section without going over the peak, water will simply run behind it and into your attic. A proper temporary seal is key to preventing interior water damage.

  • Never work on a wet, icy, or windy roof.
  • Do not nail directly through the tarp into the roof deck.
  • Avoid using thin plastic tarps that tear easily.
  • Ensure the tarp extends over the roof ridge.
  • Secure all edges with wood strips, not just the top.
  • Check the tarp's security after any high winds.

When to Call a Professional

Tarping is a temporary emergency measure, not a permanent fix. A professional assessment is needed to determine the full extent of the storm damage to your roof structure and the interior of your home. Water can travel far from the original leak, damaging insulation, drywall, and electrical systems. In a humid subtropical climate with hot rainy summers and an Atlantic hurricane season, hidden moisture can lead to mold quickly.

Local water damage pros can perform a detailed inspection to find all affected areas. They have industrial drying equipment to properly dry out your attic, ceilings, and walls. This helps prevent secondary damage and costly repairs later. For a safe, permanent roof repair, you will need to contact a roofer. The temporary tarp simply buys time for the experts to do their work.

Water damage does not wait

Every hour counts once water gets into floors and walls. One call starts the response.

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Frequently asked questions

How long can a tarp stay on my roof?

A properly installed tarp is a short-term solution, typically meant to last a few weeks. Sun, wind, and weather will degrade the material over time. Schedule a permanent roof repair as soon as possible to prevent the tarp from failing and causing new water intrusion.

Will my insurance cover the cost of tarping?

Many homeowners insurance policies cover the cost of emergency measures like roof tarping to prevent further damage after a covered peril like a storm. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Keep all receipts for materials or services related to the temporary repair.

What if water is still getting in after I tarp?

This usually means the tarp is not sealed properly or water is entering from another location. Check that the tarp is over the peak and all edges are tightly secured. If leaks persist, there may be more extensive damage requiring a professional water damage inspection to locate the source.

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