Blue Tarp on Roof: Temporary Roof Repair, Safety, and Insurance Tips

When a roof is damaged, a blue tarp on roof is a common temporary fix used to protect a home from water intrusion until permanent repairs can be completed. This article explains when and how to install a tarp safely, costs and materials, insurance considerations, and alternatives to a tarp to help homeowners make informed, practical decisions after storm or accident damage.

Situation	Recommended Action	Timeframe
Small leak or missing shingles	Temporary blue tarp or patch; schedule roofer	24–72 hours
Major storm damage	Blue tarp plus immediate insurance claim	24 hours
Structural compromise	Contractor assessment; avoid tarp if unsafe	Do not delay

Why Homeowners Use A Blue Tarp On Roof

After wind, hail, fallen trees, or sudden leaks, homeowners often place a blue tarp on roof as a quick way to protect interior spaces and belongings from water damage while waiting for a professional repair. Tarps are widely available, inexpensive, and can be installed quickly, making them a practical short-term solution.

When A Blue Tarp Is Appropriate

A blue tarp on roof is appropriate when damage is limited and the structure is safe to access. Typical situations include missing shingles, small punctures, or exposed underlayment. It is not appropriate when the roof structure is unstable, when there is heavy standing water, or when repairs require immediate professional intervention.

Safety Considerations Before Installing A Tarp

Safety is paramount. If a roof is steep, wet, icy, or structurally compromised, homeowners should not climb on it. Hiring a licensed professional or using a qualified emergency tarp service is safer and often recommended by insurers. Use fall protection, sturdy ladders, and never work alone.

Materials And Tools Needed

To install a blue tarp on roof correctly, gather the right materials: heavy-duty 6-mil or 12-mil blue polyethylene tarp, roofing nails or screws, 2×4 wood strips (batten method), rope or straps, ladder, gloves, and safety harness. Using stronger tarps and proper battens minimizes wind uplift.

Step-By-Step: How To Install A Blue Tarp On Roof

Preparation

Inspect the roof from the ground if safe and document damage with photos for insurance. Clear loose debris and ensure electrical lines are not in the area. Documenting damage before tarp installation helps insurance claims.

Tarp Placement

Place the tarp so it extends at least 2 feet beyond the damaged area horizontally and vertically. Align the tarp with the roof ridge if possible to shed water away from the interior. Proper overlap reduces leak points and helps water run off.

Securing The Tarp Using Battens

Lay 2×4 wood strips over the tarp where it overlaps intact roofing to distribute fastener loads. Nail or screw the battens into the roof deck—not through flashing or into vulnerable areas. Attach the tarp to the battens with roofing nails or screws. The batten method prevents concentrated tears and improves wind resistance.

Tightening And Anchoring

Tension the tarp evenly and anchor edges with ropes tied to secure points or heavy objects. Avoid burying the tarp edges beneath soil or heavy materials that could damage shingles. Even tension prevents ponding and reduces flapping that causes further damage.

Costs And Typical Timeframes

Blue tarps are inexpensive: retail costs range from $15 to $100 depending on size and thickness. Professional emergency tarp services typically charge $150–$800 depending on roof access, height, and complexity. Insurance often covers emergency tarp costs if documented and reasonable.

Insurance Claims And Documentation

Insurance companies expect homeowners to mitigate further damage. Installing a blue tarp on roof and documenting the process is usually considered reasonable mitigation. Homeowners should take dated photos, keep receipts for tarp and labor, and notify the insurer quickly to begin the claims process.

What To Tell The Insurance Adjuster

Report the cause (wind, hail, falling tree), provide photos of pre- and post-tarp conditions, and submit invoices for tarp installation. Keeping a clear, dated record speeds claim processing and avoids disputes.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Climbing Unsafe Roofs: Avoid personal injury by not attempting tarping on unstable structures.
• Using Too-Small Tarps: Small tarps create gaps and require multiple overlaps that can leak.
• Fastening Incorrectly: Driving nails through the tarp into shingles without battens increases tear risk.
• Delaying Permanent Repairs: A tarp is temporary—prolonged use can worsen roof conditions.

Alternatives To A Blue Tarp On Roof

Depending on damage, alternatives include temporary roof patches, roof cement for small punctures, or emergency professional tarping services that use stronger materials and better anchoring. For severe structural damage, temporary bracing and immediate contractor assessment are better than tarping.

Long-Term Solutions And Transition From Tarp To Repair

After the tarp is installed and the home is protected, homeowners should schedule a licensed roofer for assessment. The roofer will determine whether shingle replacement, re-roofing, or structural repairs are needed. Obtain multiple bids and verify licensing and insurance before hiring.

Selecting A Contractor And Avoiding Scams

Storm seasons attract fly-by-night contractors who pressure homeowners to sign expensive contracts. Verify contractor credentials, check references, obtain a written estimate, and confirm that the contractor will communicate with the insurer. Never pay the full amount upfront and insist on a written scope and timeline.

Maintenance Tips After Tarp Removal

After permanent repairs, inspect attic spaces for hidden water damage, mold, and compromised insulation. Replace any wet insulation promptly and address mold concerns with remediation professionals. Follow-up inspections prevent long-term health and structural problems.

When To Call Emergency Services

If a fallen tree has damaged power lines, the structure is unsafe, or there is active water flooding inside the home, call emergency services and the utility company immediately. Safety and evacuation take priority over property protection.

How Climate And Geography Affect Tarping Decisions

In hurricane-prone or high-wind areas, tarps may be lifted easily; use professional services experienced with high-wind anchoring. In freeze-thaw climates, ensure tarps are high-quality and tensioned to avoid ice ponding. Local conditions should guide tarp selection and installation methods.

Quick Checklist For Homeowners

• Document damage with time-stamped photos and video.
• Call insurance company and report the loss.
• Purchase a heavy-duty blue tarp or hire a professional tarp installer.
• Use battens and proper fasteners to secure the tarp.
• Schedule a licensed roofer for permanent repairs within days to weeks.

Resources And Further Reading

Homeowners can consult the National Roof Contractors Association, FEMA guidance on home repairs after disasters, and state insurance department materials for claims tips. These resources provide checklists, safety advice, and contractor verification tools.