Tarping a roof leak is a common emergency repair homeowners use to protect property until a permanent fix is completed. This article explains when to tarp, necessary materials, safety precautions, step-by-step techniques, and follow-up actions to minimize water damage and keep occupants safe.
| Item | Typical Cost | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Tarp (6×8 to 12×20) | $15–$100 | Temporary waterproof barrier |
| Plywood or 2x4s | $10–$40 | Provides anchor points and flattens surface |
| Roofing nails / screws | $5–$20 | Secures tarp at edges |
| Rope / bungee cords | $5–$30 | Fastens tarp to roof features |
When To Tarp A Roof Leak
Tarping is appropriate when a roof leak poses immediate risk to interiors and a permanent repair cannot be completed promptly. Examples include storm damage, missing shingles, or flashing failure during heavy rain. Tarping should be a temporary measure while arranging a qualified roofer for lasting repairs.
Tools And Materials Needed
Having the right materials before accessing the roof reduces time spent exposed to hazards. Essential items include: a heavy-duty polyethylene tarp (6-mil or thicker), roofing nails or screws with washers, hammer or drill, roof-safe adhesive tape, rope or ratchet straps, utility knife, and ladders with stabilizers.
Safety Precautions Before Climbing
Safety must be the top priority: always assess conditions and never climb on a wet or icy roof. Check wind speeds, wear non-slip shoes and a harness if available, use a stable ladder with someone to hold it, and avoid overreaching. If the roof pitch is steep or roofing conditions look unstable, call a professional instead of attempting a DIY tarp.
How To Prepare The Roof Surface
Preparation ensures the tarp lays flat and stays secured, improving performance during rain and wind. Remove loose debris, trim overhanging branches, and clear gutters where possible. Place plywood or a smooth board over jagged areas to prevent tarp tears. If water is actively pooling, consider short-term channels or buckets inside until the tarp is positioned.
Step-By-Step Tarping Method For Different Roof Types
Asphalt Shingle Roofs
The recommended approach for asphalt shingle roofs is to lay the tarp with the top edge under a row of shingles to use the roof’s natural overlap.Lift shingles gently with a flat bar, slide the tarp edge beneath, and fasten the tarp along the top with roofing nails placed into the roof deck through washered holes in the tarp. Avoid lifting more shingles than necessary to prevent further damage.
Metal Roofs
For metal roofs, avoid placing nails through panels; use straps or screws into structural purlins where feasible.Position the tarp over the leak and secure edges with rope tied to roof anchors, chimney, or heavy objects. Use rubber washers under fasteners to maintain waterproofing where screws are used.
Flat Roofs (Built-Up, EPDM)
Flat roofs require full coverage with the tarp sealed to prevent wind slippage and water ingress under edges.Lay the tarp so water runs to a gutter or drain, secure edges with weighted sandbags or 2x4s screwed through plywood pads, and use roof-safe tape to bond seams if needed.
Securing The Tarp Correctly
Proper fastening prevents wind uplift and reduces the chance the tarp will fail during storms.Use a combination of methods: nail/washer points at the top, ropes or ratchet straps along ridges, and weighted boards at valleys and eaves. Keep nails away from electrical lines and avoid penetrating flashings that are critical to roof integrity.
Interior Temporary Repairs While Waiting For Roof Work
Minimizing interior damage complements exterior tarping efforts and protects belongings.Place buckets under drips, move valuables from the affected area, set up tarps or plastic sheeting inside ceilings or attics to channel water to containers, and use wet/dry vacuums and dehumidifiers to limit mold growth.
When To Call A Professional Roofer
Call a licensed roofer for extensive damage, complex roof shapes, steep pitches, or when tarping is unsafe or impractical.Professionals provide permanent solutions, insurance documentation, and roof inspections that can identify underlying structural issues that a tarp cannot fix.
Insurance And Documentation Tips
Document all damage and emergency repairs for an insurer: photos before and after tarping, receipts for materials, and notes about when the tarp was installed.Most homeowners insurance policies require reasonable steps to mitigate additional damage, and proper documentation speeds claims processing and approval for permanent repairs.
Common Tarping Mistakes To Avoid
- Using undersized or thin tarps — thin tarps tear quickly and fail in high winds.
- Securing only at eaves — this allows wind to catch the tarp and pry it loose.
- Puncturing critical roof components — driving nails through valley flashings or around chimneys can worsen leaks.
- Waiting until after heavy rain — tarping during a storm is dangerous and less effective.
Maintaining A Tarped Roof Until Permanent Repair
Regular inspections of the tarp are essential to ensure it remains watertight and secure.Check fasteners after high winds, remove accumulated water that pools on the tarp, and replace torn sections promptly. Keep an eye on interior moisture and call the roofer immediately if the tarp shows signs of failure.
Cost, Timeframe, And When Tarping Is Not Worth It
Tarping costs vary but are generally modest compared with emergency repairs and interior damage—however, it is temporary and not a substitute for proper roofing work.Small tarps and DIY labor can be done in under two hours for minor leaks; large-scale tarping over complex roofs can take several hours and may require professional rigging. If damage affects structural elements or if repeated tarping is needed, proceed directly to permanent repair or replacement.
Checklist For A Successful Tarp Job
- Assess safety and weather conditions before climbing.
- Gather a heavy-duty tarp, fasteners, rope, and board pads.
- Prepare the roof surface and clear debris.
- Position the tarp with proper overlap and drainage direction.
- Secure top edge under shingles or use anchor points.
- Weight and fasten all edges; inspect after storms.
- Document repairs and schedule a permanent fix with a roofer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tarping Roof Leaks
How Long Can A Tarp Remain On A Roof?
Tarps are temporary and should be replaced or removed within weeks to a few months; long-term exposure degrades material and can void warranties.Plan for permanent repair as soon as practical to avoid further damage.
Will A Tarp Damage Shingles?
If installed and removed carefully, a tarp should not cause major shingle damage, but improper nailing, extended friction, or trapping moisture can harm roofing materials.Use washers and minimal lifting of shingles when possible.
Can Wind Blow A Tarp Off During A Storm?
Yes—improperly secured tarps are vulnerable to wind uplift; use multiple fastening methods and weighted boards to reduce risk.In extreme winds, professional rigging or immediate permanent repairs are safer.
Additional Resources And Next Steps
Consult local building codes, manufacturer guidelines, and licensed roofers for permanent solutions and warranty considerations.Homeowners should also review their insurance policy for storm coverage and preferred contractor procedures before scheduling major work.
Using a tarp correctly can limit damage and buy time for a proper repair, but it is not a substitute for a permanent fix by a qualified roofer.