How to Tarp a Roof: Emergency Guide
Protect your home from further water damage after a storm. Step-by-step instructions for safe emergency roof tarping.
SAFETY FIRST: Read Before Climbing
Roof work is dangerous. Falls from ladders and roofs are a leading cause of home injury deaths. If your roof is steep, damaged, wet, or you're uncomfortable with heights, call a professional immediately. Your safety is more important than any property damage.
When Do You Need to Tarp a Roof?
Common Causes of Roof Damage
- Hurricane or tropical storm damage
- Hail damage to shingles
- Fallen tree limbs or debris impact
- Wind-blown shingles or missing sections
- Active leaks with more rain expected
- Waiting for insurance adjuster or repairs
Do NOT Tarp If...
- The storm is still active with high winds
- Your roof is sagging or shows structural damage
- There are downed power lines near the roof
- The roof surface is wet, icy, or covered in debris
- You have no helper to spot the ladder
- You're uncomfortable with heights or roof work
In Myrtle Beach? Weather Shield Roofing provides 24/7 emergency tarping service. We arrive quickly with proper equipment and insurance coverage. Call (843) 877-5539
Materials Needed for Roof Tarping
Gather all materials before climbing. Multiple trips increase fall risk.
Heavy-duty tarp (minimum 6 mil thickness)
Blue or silver polyethylene tarp, sized to cover damage plus 4 feet on all sides
2x4 lumber boards
For creating anchor weights and securing tarp edges
Roofing screws or cap nails
Corrosion-resistant fasteners for securing boards to roof
Rope or bungee cords
For additional securing if screws cannot be used
Extension ladder (rated for your weight plus materials)
Ensure ladder extends 3 feet above roof edge for safe access
Non-slip shoes or roof boots
Essential for safety on potentially wet or sloped surfaces
Work gloves and safety glasses
Protection from splinters, nails, and debris
Utility knife
For cutting tarp to size if needed
Pro Tip: Most hardware stores carry roof tarping kits with tarp, boards, and fasteners included. After a major storm, these supplies sell out quickly. Consider keeping emergency materials on hand during hurricane season.
How to Tarp a Roof: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these 8 steps carefully for safe, effective emergency roof protection
Assess the Damage Safely from the Ground
Before climbing onto your roof, thoroughly assess the damage from ground level using binoculars if possible. Identify the extent of damage, check for structural concerns, and plan your approach.
Key Actions:
- Walk around the entire house looking for visible damage
- Check for sagging areas that may indicate structural problems
- Note the location and approximate size of damaged areas
- Look for fallen debris that may have caused additional damage
- Check if power lines are near the roof
- Assess weather conditions - never tarp in high winds or active storms
Safety Note
If you see significant structural damage, sagging, or if the roof appears unstable, do NOT attempt to tarp it yourself. Call a professional immediately.
Gather All Materials Before Climbing
Collect all necessary materials and have them ready at the base of your ladder. Making multiple trips up and down increases fall risk.
Key Actions:
- Select a tarp large enough to extend 4 feet past the damaged area on all sides
- Pre-cut 2x4 boards to appropriate lengths for anchor weights
- Gather screws, hammer, utility knife, and measuring tape
- Ensure your ladder is in good condition with no broken rungs
- Have a helper available to stabilize the ladder and hand up materials
- Check that all tools are secure and won't fall from your pockets
Safety Note
Always wear appropriate footwear with non-slip soles. Never work on a wet roof.
Measure the Damaged Area
Carefully measure the damaged section of your roof to ensure your tarp will provide adequate coverage with proper overlap.
Key Actions:
- Measure the length and width of the damaged area
- Add at least 4 feet to each measurement for proper overlap
- The tarp should extend past the ridge if possible for best water shedding
- Account for any slopes, valleys, or obstacles
- Mark where the tarp edges will sit with chalk if needed
- Plan your fastening points away from the damaged area
Safety Note
Move slowly and deliberately. Maintain three points of contact at all times.
Unroll and Position the Tarp
Carefully unroll the tarp over the damaged area, ensuring it extends well beyond the damage on all sides. Position it to shed water away from the damage.
Key Actions:
- Start at the high point (ridge) if covering that area
- Unroll the tarp carefully to avoid catching wind
- Ensure the tarp extends at least 4 feet past the damage in all directions
- The high edge should tuck under or extend over the ridge cap
- Smooth out wrinkles that could collect water
- Position the tarp to direct water to gutters if possible
Safety Note
Tarps can act like sails in wind. If gusts pick up, stop immediately and seek shelter.
Secure the Top Edge First
The top edge of the tarp is the most critical. Secure it using 2x4 boards screwed through the tarp into the roof decking, or wrap it over the ridge.
Key Actions:
- Place a 2x4 board along the top edge of the tarp
- Drive screws through the board and tarp into solid roof decking
- Space screws every 12-16 inches for secure hold
- If going over the ridge, secure to both sides with boards
- Avoid screwing into damaged or rotted areas
- Pull the tarp taut before securing to prevent pooling
Safety Note
Screw into solid wood only. Test for rot before driving screws. Weak spots may not hold.
Secure the Side and Bottom Edges
Work your way down and around, securing all edges of the tarp. The goal is to create a watertight barrier that won't lift in wind.
Key Actions:
- Attach 2x4 boards along each side edge
- Work systematically from top to bottom on each side
- Secure the bottom edge last, pulling tarp taut
- Ensure all edges are weighted or fastened down
- Wrap tarp around boards for extra grip if needed
- Consider additional center anchors on large tarps
Safety Note
Never walk backward on a roof. Always face your direction of travel.
Add Additional Anchoring for High Winds
In coastal areas like Myrtle Beach, extra anchoring is essential. Add rope ties, additional boards, or sandbags for hurricane-force protection.
Key Actions:
- Tie ropes from tarp grommets to secure anchor points
- Add intermediate boards across the tarp surface
- Place sandbags along edges if screwing isn't possible
- Consider using cap nails for additional edge security
- Create a perimeter seal with roofing cement if available
- Ensure no edges can lift or flap in wind
Safety Note
Hurricane conditions require professional tarping. A loose tarp in high winds becomes a dangerous projectile.
Inspect and Document Your Work
Before leaving the roof, inspect all secured areas. Take photos for insurance documentation and schedule a professional inspection.
Key Actions:
- Walk around and check all fastening points
- Look for gaps or loose areas that could leak
- Ensure water will shed properly off the tarp
- Take dated photos from multiple angles
- Document all visible damage for insurance claims
- Schedule professional repair as soon as possible
Safety Note
Tarps are temporary. They typically last 90 days maximum and should be replaced with permanent repairs quickly.
How Long Does a Roof Tarp Last?
90
Days maximum under optimal conditions
30-60
Days typical in coastal SC climate
7-14
Days if poorly installed or cheap tarp
A properly installed heavy-duty tarp provides temporary protection only. Several factors affect how long your tarp will last:
- UV exposure: Direct sunlight degrades most tarps within weeks
- Tarp quality: Heavy-duty 6+ mil tarps last longer than cheap alternatives
- Wind conditions: Coastal areas see faster wear from constant wind
- Installation quality: Loose tarps flap and tear; tight installation lasts longer
- Salt air: In Myrtle Beach, salt accelerates degradation of tarp and fasteners
Important: Insurance companies and building codes recognize tarps as emergency measures only. Most policies expect permanent repairs within a reasonable timeframe (typically 30-90 days). Delaying permanent repairs can jeopardize your insurance claim.
Common Roof Tarping Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from these frequent errors that lead to failed tarps or injuries
Using a tarp that's too small
Risk: Water infiltrates around edges causing continued damage
Solution: Always use a tarp that extends at least 4 feet beyond the damaged area
Not securing the tarp properly
Risk: Wind lifts tarp, causing more damage and creating a safety hazard
Solution: Use 2x4 boards with screws, not just weights or ropes alone
Tarping during active storms
Risk: Extreme fall risk and tarp may become unmanageable in wind
Solution: Wait for calm conditions - even a few hours can make it safer
Ignoring structural damage
Risk: Roof collapse, serious injury, or death
Solution: If roof is sagging or unstable, evacuate and call professionals
Working alone
Risk: No one to call for help if you fall or get injured
Solution: Always have a helper to stabilize ladder and call emergency services if needed
Using thin or old tarps
Risk: Tarp tears in wind or degrades quickly in sun
Solution: Use heavy-duty (6+ mil) tarps rated for outdoor use
When to Call a Professional
Professional emergency tarping is the safer, smarter choice in many situations
Call a Pro If...
- Your roof pitch is 6:12 or steeper
- The damaged area is large or multiple areas need covering
- Your roof is two or more stories high
- There's any structural damage or sagging
- You don't have proper safety equipment
- You're not comfortable with ladder or roof work
Professional Advantages
- Proper safety harnesses and equipment
- Commercial-grade tarps that last longer
- Experience with all roof types and conditions
- Liability insurance protects you
- Documentation for insurance claims
- Can assess and repair damage permanently
Weather Shield Roofing - 24/7 Emergency Service
Myrtle Beach's highest-rated roofing contractor. We respond quickly to protect your home from further damage.
(843) 877-5539Frequently Asked Questions About Roof Tarping
Common questions answered by roofing professionals
How long does a roof tarp last?
A properly installed roof tarp typically lasts 90 days under normal conditions. However, exposure to sun, wind, and weather can reduce lifespan. In coastal South Carolina, salt air and frequent storms may require tarp replacement every 30-60 days. UV rays degrade most tarps quickly, so schedule permanent repairs as soon as possible.
Can I tarp my roof myself or should I hire a professional?
For small, accessible areas with minor damage, experienced homeowners can tarp a roof. However, professional tarping is recommended if: the roof is steep (over 6:12 pitch), you're not comfortable on ladders, there's structural damage, or if you're in hurricane conditions. Professional crews have safety equipment, experience, and insurance that protects you.
What size tarp do I need for my roof?
Measure the damaged area and add at least 4 feet on each side for overlap. For example, if the damage is 6x8 feet, you need at least a 14x16 foot tarp. It's always better to use a tarp that's too large than too small. Common sizes for roof tarping are 20x20, 20x30, or 30x40 feet for larger areas.
Will insurance cover roof tarping after storm damage?
Yes, most homeowner's insurance policies cover emergency tarping as part of your obligation to mitigate further damage. This is typically included in your claim for storm damage repairs. Keep all receipts and document the tarping process with photos. Contact your insurance company immediately after the storm to report damage.
Can I walk on my roof after storm damage?
Extreme caution is required. Storm damage can weaken roof structure invisibly. If you notice any sagging, soft spots, or unusual movement, do not walk on the roof. Always test your footing carefully, stay near rafters and trusses (usually visible as nail lines), and never walk on wet or moss-covered surfaces.
What should I do if I can't safely tarp my roof?
Call a professional emergency roofing service immediately. Weather Shield Roofing offers 24/7 emergency tarping services in Myrtle Beach and surrounding areas. We can respond quickly to protect your home from further damage while you wait for permanent repairs.
How much does professional roof tarping cost?
Professional emergency roof tarping varies based on roof size, accessibility, and damage extent. Rather than listing specific prices that may not apply to your situation, we recommend calling for a free assessment. Emergency tarping costs are typically covered by homeowner's insurance as part of storm damage claims.
Can a tarp cause more damage to my roof?
If installed incorrectly, yes. Improperly secured tarps can tear shingles when they flap, trap moisture leading to mold, or create water pooling that stresses the roof structure. Correct installation with proper fastening prevents these issues. This is another reason professional installation is often worth the investment.
Need Emergency Roof Repair in Myrtle Beach?
Don't risk injury or further property damage. Weather Shield Roofing provides professional emergency tarping and storm damage repair 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.