Emergency roof tarping is a temporary water-management step—not a “repair.” Done correctly, it reduces interior damage and buys time to plan a permanent fix.
When tarping makes sense
- Storm damage with missing shingles or exposed underlayment
- Fallen branches or punctures
- Active leaks where repairs must wait for drying conditions
What proper tarping looks like
- Tarps extend over the ridge (when possible) so water can’t run underneath
- Edges are secured with battens/strips—not random exposed nails
- Water paths are considered (valleys, slope direction, discharge)
- Interior protection is addressed (catching drips, preventing drywall collapse)
Red flags to avoid
- Tarps stapled directly into shingles with no batten support
- Tarps that don’t extend far enough upslope
- No photos/documentation of the damage and the tarp placement
- Promises that tarping “solves” the issue permanently
What drives tarping cost
Pricing varies based on access and risk:
- Roof height and steepness
- How much area must be covered
- Time of day and urgency
- Whether debris removal is required first
What to do after tarping
- Schedule a permanent repair inspection
- Collect photos and documentation (helpful for insurance if applicable)
- Address the root cause (flashing, valley detail, puncture, etc.)
Next step
If you need urgent help, start with roof repair and request service via contact. If you want to understand leak sources before repairs begin, see how to find a roof leak.