How to Emergency Tarp a Damaged Roof
A tree just went through your roof. Storm ripped off shingles. Whatever happened, you've got a hole and rain's coming. Here's how to get emergency protection up fast.
What You Need
- Tarp: Heavy duty (at least 8 mil), big enough to cover the damaged area plus 4 feet on all sides
- 2x4 lumber: For weight and securing edges
- Screws: 2-3 inch deck screws
- Drill
- Rope or bungee cords: For extra security
- Ladder: Tall enough to safely access the roof
Most hardware stores carry emergency tarps. In a pinch after a storm, they might be sold out – having one in storage before storm season is smart.
The Proper Method
Step 1: Assess Safely
Before climbing up, look at the damage from the ground. Is the roof structure compromised? Are there live wires nearby? If anything looks structurally dangerous, don't go up.
Step 2: Clear Major Debris
Remove any large debris from the damaged area that would keep the tarp from lying flat. Don't worry about small stuff – the tarp will cover it.
Step 3: Position the Tarp
Unroll the tarp over the damaged area. Key points:
- The top edge should extend over the ridge (peak) of the roof if possible
- Tarp should extend at least 4 feet past the damage in all directions
- Pull it tight – loose tarps catch wind and fail
Step 4: Secure the Top
The top edge is most important. Two methods:
Over the ridge: If you can extend the tarp over the peak, wrap the edge around a 2x4 and screw the 2x4 to the roof deck on the other side. This anchors it best.
Below the ridge: If you can't reach over, sandwich the tarp edge between two 2x4s screwed together through the tarp and into the roof.
Step 5: Secure the Sides and Bottom
Use 2x4s along the sides, screwed through the tarp into the roof deck. The bottom edge can also be weighted with 2x4s if you can't screw it down.
Step 6: Check for Gaps
Make sure the tarp is pulled tight everywhere. Loose spots catch wind. Check that water can't pool anywhere – it should be able to run off.
What NOT to Do
- Don't use nails through the tarp: They tear out too easily. Use screws with boards.
- Don't just use sandbags or rocks: Wind will blow the tarp right off.
- Don't tarp when it's wet or windy: Wait for conditions to improve if at all possible.
- Don't anchor to gutters: They're not strong enough and will pull away.
- Don't create a water trap: The tarp must allow water to run off, not pool.
If You Can't Get on the Roof
Alternative approaches:
Interior protection: Put tarps or plastic sheeting inside, under the leak. Not ideal but contains the water damage.
Call professionals: Many roofing companies offer emergency tarping. Costs $200-500 typically, but they have the equipment and experience to do it safely.
Board up access: If there's a hole you can reach from inside (like a skylight area), you can sometimes secure plastic from inside the attic.
How Long Can a Tarp Stay?
A well-installed tarp can protect your home for weeks, sometimes months if necessary. But it's temporary – tarps degrade with UV exposure, and wind eventually works them loose.
Get permanent repairs scheduled as soon as possible. After major storms, contractors are swamped, so book early even if the actual work is weeks out.
Check your tarp regularly – after each storm, inspect for tears, loose areas, or water intrusion.
Insurance Documentation
Before you tarp:
- Take photos of the damage from multiple angles
- Document the date and what caused the damage
- Keep receipts for tarps and materials
Insurance typically covers emergency mitigation costs. But you need documentation to get reimbursed. For the full process, check out our complete guide to filing a roof insurance claim.
Need Emergency Roof Service?
Connect with Knoxville roofers who respond quickly to emergencies.
Get Emergency Help