Emergency Roof Tarping: What You Need to Know

When a storm tears through Central Florida and damages your roof, emergency tarping often makes the difference between minor repairs and major reconstruction. A properly installed tarp can protect your home for weeks while you navigate insurance claims and schedule permanent repairs.

At Pro Specialty Services, emergency tarping is one of our most requested services after storms. This guide explains everything homeowners need to know about this critical service.

When Is Emergency Tarping Needed?

Emergency tarping is necessary whenever your roof has lost its ability to keep water out. Common situations include:

Missing roofing materials - When shingles, tiles, or metal panels have blown off, exposing the underlayment or roof deck beneath.

Large debris impacts - When tree branches, fence sections, or other debris have punctured through the roof surface.

Significant wind lift damage - When wind has lifted large sections of roofing material, even if they're still partially attached.

Damaged or missing flashing - When flashing around chimneys, vents, or roof edges has been torn away or significantly damaged.

Active leaks - When water is entering your home during rain, indicating the roof's waterproofing has been compromised.

Visible deck damage - When you can see the plywood or OSB decking from outside, indicating the roof's protective layers are gone.

If you're unsure whether your damage requires tarping, err on the side of caution. Florida's daily rain means that even small vulnerabilities can cause significant water damage quickly.

Types of Emergency Roof Tarps

Not all tarps are created equal. Professional roofers use specific materials designed for roof protection:

Heavy-Duty Poly Tarps

The most common emergency roof covering, professional-grade poly tarps are:

• Minimum 6-mil thickness (often 10-12 mil for better durability)
• UV-resistant to prevent sun degradation
• Reinforced grommets for secure attachment
• Available in sizes large enough to cover significant damage areas

These tarps typically last 2-6 months depending on conditions, giving you time to complete insurance claims and schedule repairs.

Shrink-Wrap Systems

For larger damaged areas or longer-term protection, shrink-wrap systems offer superior performance:

• Custom-fitted to your specific damage area
• Heat-shrunk to create a tight, secure seal
• Better wind resistance than standard tarps
• Can last 6-12 months with proper installation
• More expensive but provides better protection

Board-Up Materials

For holes, broken skylights, or penetrations, plywood or OSB may be used in combination with tarps:

• Provides structural support over holes
• Creates a secure surface for tarp attachment
• Protects against both water and debris entry

How Professional Tarping Works

Understanding the professional tarping process helps you know what to expect when you call for emergency roof repair.

Initial Assessment

When our crew arrives, we first assess:

• The extent and location of damage
• Safety conditions for roof access
• Tarp size and materials needed
• Best approach for secure installation
• Any immediate hazards to address

Preparation

Before tarp installation:

• Debris is cleared from the damage area when safe
• Loose materials are secured or removed
• The area is measured to determine tarp coverage
• Attachment points are identified

Installation Methods

Professional tarping uses several techniques depending on the situation:

Weighted installation uses 2x4 boards or sandbags placed over the tarp edges to hold it in place. This method:

• Avoids creating new penetrations in the roof
• Allows easy removal for permanent repairs
• Works well for flat or low-slope sections

Mechanical attachment uses screws through furring strips into the roof deck. This method:

• Provides the most secure hold in high winds
• Is necessary for steep slopes
• Creates small penetrations that are repaired during permanent work

Wrap-around installation extends the tarp over the ridge and down the opposite slope. This method:

• Prevents wind from lifting the tarp from above
• Provides maximum water protection
• Used for significant damage near roof peaks

Coverage Requirements

Proper tarping extends well beyond the damaged area:

• Minimum 4 feet past damage in all directions
• Upper edge should extend over the ridge when possible
• Side edges should be secured to prevent wind entry
• Lower edge should allow water to shed properly

DIY Tarping vs. Professional Installation

While homeowners sometimes attempt emergency tarping, there are important considerations:

When DIY May Be Appropriate

• Small damage areas you can reach safely from a ladder
• Dry, calm conditions (never attempt in wind or on wet surfaces)
• You have proper equipment and someone to assist
• You're physically capable of working at heights
• It's truly temporary until professionals can arrive

Why Professional Tarping Is Usually Better

Safety - Professional crews have fall protection equipment, proper ladders, and training for roof work. Roof falls cause thousands of serious injuries annually.

Effectiveness - Improperly installed tarps can blow off, pool water, or fail to cover all vulnerable areas. A failed tarp provides false security while damage continues.

Insurance considerations - Tarping costs are typically covered by insurance as part of your claim. DIY attempts that cause additional damage may not be covered.

Speed - Professional crews can tarp most roofs in 1-3 hours. DIY attempts often take much longer and may need to be redone.

Comprehensive assessment - While tarping, professionals identify all damage that needs documentation and repair, not just the obvious problems.

Emergency Tarping Costs

Understanding tarping costs helps you plan and evaluate quotes:

Typical Price Ranges

Emergency tarping costs vary based on several factors:

Small tarps (under 500 sq ft coverage): $300-$600

• Suitable for a few missing shingles or small debris impact
• Standard poly tarp, weighted or light mechanical attachment

Medium tarps (500-1,000 sq ft): $600-$1,200

• Larger damaged areas or multiple damage points
• May require ridge wrap or more extensive attachment

Large tarps (over 1,000 sq ft): $1,200-$2,500+

• Significant storm damage or multiple sections
• Often requires shrink-wrap or multiple tarps

Factors Affecting Cost

• Roof pitch - Steeper roofs are more difficult and dangerous to tarp
• Height - Multi-story homes require more equipment and time
• Damage extent - More damage means more tarp material and installation time
• Access difficulty - Limited access or obstacles increase labor time
• Time of service - Emergency/after-hours service may cost more
• Material quality - Heavy-duty tarps and shrink-wrap cost more but last longer

Insurance Coverage

Emergency tarping is typically covered as part of your storm damage claim under "emergency repairs" or "mitigation" provisions. Most policies cover:

• Reasonable tarping costs to prevent further damage
• Emergency service charges
• Materials used for temporary protection

Keep all receipts and documentation for reimbursement. Even if you pay out of pocket initially, these costs are typically recoverable.

How Long Does a Tarp Last?

Tarp lifespan depends on several factors:

Material quality:

• Light-duty tarps: 2-4 weeks
• Professional poly tarps: 2-6 months
• Shrink-wrap systems: 6-12 months

Weather conditions:

• UV exposure degrades tarps faster in direct sunlight
• High winds stress attachment points
• Repeated rain cycles can cause water pooling and weight stress

Installation quality:

• Properly installed tarps with adequate overlap and secure attachment last longer
• DIY installations often fail sooner due to improper technique

Tarp inspection:

• Regular inspection (especially after storms) extends effective life
• Early repair of small issues prevents total failure

From Tarping to Permanent Repairs

Emergency tarping is just the first step. Here's the typical path to full repair:

Immediately After Tarping

• Document all damage thoroughly (photos, videos, written notes)
• Contact your insurance company to file a claim
• Request a detailed damage assessment from your contractor

During the Claims Process

• Meet with the insurance adjuster (your contractor should attend)
• Get a comprehensive repair estimate
• Negotiate any discrepancies in damage assessment
• Receive claim approval and understand your coverage

Scheduling Permanent Repairs

• Plan repair timeline based on material availability
• Coordinate with insurance if payments are staged
• Remove tarp and begin permanent roof repair
• Complete final inspection and documentation

The entire process from tarping to completed repairs typically takes 2-8 weeks depending on damage extent, insurance processing time, and contractor availability.

Emergency Tarping FAQs

Q: Can I stay in my home with a tarped roof?

A: Usually yes, as long as the tarp is properly installed and there's no structural damage. However, if you have ongoing leaks despite tarping, or if there are safety concerns, temporary relocation may be necessary.

Q: What if it's still raining - can you tarp in the rain?

A: Professional crews can work in light rain if necessary to stop active water intrusion. However, heavy rain, lightning, or high winds make roof work too dangerous. We'll provide guidance on interior protection until conditions allow safe tarping.

Q: Should I get multiple tarp quotes?

A: In a true emergency, speed matters more than price shopping. Choose a reputable local company that can respond quickly. After major storms, prices are fairly standard and delays can cause significant additional damage.

Q: What if the tarp fails?

A: Contact your tarping company immediately. Most reputable companies will return to repair or reinstall at no additional charge if the tarp fails due to installation issues. Damage from storms after installation may require a new service call.

The Pro Specialty Services Difference

When you call Pro Specialty Services for emergency tarping, you get:

• Rapid response - We prioritize emergencies and deploy crews quickly
• Professional installation - Proper materials and techniques that last
• Comprehensive assessment - We document all damage while tarping
• Insurance coordination - We work directly with your insurance company
• Path to permanent repair - Seamless transition from emergency to full restoration

Don't let roof damage turn into a disaster. If your roof needs emergency protection, call us immediately. We'll secure your home and guide you through the entire repair process.