Roof damage is something no homeowner wants to deal with, but it’s a reality—especially if you live in Oklahoma, a region prone to storms and tornadoes. When storms hit, roofs can take the brunt of the impact, leading to anything from minor leaks to major structural issues. That’s where roof tarps come in.
In many cases, putting a tarp over your roof is one of the first lines of defense to protect your home from further damage. Roof tarps act as temporary, but effective, shields, keeping out the rain and hail, stopping leaks, and holding down the fort until the roofers can make the necessary roof repairs.
Whether it’s after a storm, during repairs, or while waiting for an insurance claim, tarps provide immediate protection for your roof. In this post, we’ll break down why roof tarps matter, when to use them, and the best practices for keeping your roof safe with a tarp.
What is a Roof Tarp?
A roof tarp is a durable, weatherproof cover that’s typically made from heavy-duty plastic or woven polyethylene. These materials are tough, flexible, and waterproof, making them ideal for temporary roofing needs. Roof tarps are designed to be placed over damaged sections of the roof to create a barrier against rain, wind, and even small debris.
Most roof tarps come with grommets (metal-reinforced holes) along the edges, which allow them to be secured to the roof with nails, screws, or ropes. A well-installed tarp can help prevent leaks and keep your home dry, even in heavy rain, making it a lifesaver for those in areas with unpredictable weather.
Why Should You Use a Roof Tarp?
Roof tarps serve as a valuable, temporary solution for roof protection. Here are a few reasons why they’re so effective:
Protection from Weather
Roof tarps act as a barrier, shielding the inside of your home from rain, wind, and even pests. When roofing materials are compromised—whether from a storm, fallen tree, or normal wear and tear—your home’s interior becomes vulnerable. A tarp blocks out water and debris, protecting your furniture, walls, and belongings from moisture and mold damage. In situations where rain and wind are a regular threat, tarps can also help stabilize the temperature inside your home, making them a valuable preventative solution.
Temporary Fix After a Storm
After a storm, it can be tough to get immediate repairs, especially when roofing companies are busy. Placing a tarp on your roof right after damage occurs provides a temporary fix that can buy you the time needed to secure a professional repair. The roofing tarp keeps further damage at bay, preventing leaks from worsening and stopping minor issues from turning into major (and expensive) repairs.
Even when a contractor arrives, the first thing that he will likely do is to install a tarp so that no additional damage occurs during roofing repairs.
Cost-Effective Damage Control
Leaving roof damage exposed can lead to serious issues down the road. Using a roof tarp can help contain the damage to a manageable level, potentially saving you from extensive repairs or even a premature roof replacement. While a tarp won’t solve the underlying problem, it can protect your roof and home from escalating damage that could break the bank.
Situations Where Roof Tarps are Essential
There are some specific situations where using a roof tarp is especially important:
Storm Damage
Heavy storms, hurricanes, hail, and high winds are tough on roofs, no matter how sturdy they are. Roof tarps offer a quick solution that can be put in place immediately after a storm to protect against further weather-related damage. This temporary cover can keep the weather out and give you the chance to assess the damage and make a plan for repairs.
During Repairs or Replacements
Sometimes, roofing projects don’t go as planned—maybe it’s unexpected rain during a repair or an issue with materials. Tarps are often used to cover the roof while work is underway or if there’s a delay in the repair or replacement process. This keeps the structure protected and helps prevent moisture from seeping into exposed areas.
Also Read: Storm Damage In Oklahoma Last Night? What To Do Next
How Long Can You Leave a Tarp on a Roof?
Roof tarps are designed to be temporary, so you shouldn’t rely on them for long-term protection. Generally, a well-installed tarp can last for about 90 days on average. So, a tarp on your roof gives you some time to plan for your upcoming roof replacement/repair.
Some high-quality, waterproof roof tarps can also stay on your roof for up to 120 days. However, it’s generally recommended not to leave a tarp on for that long and instead get permanent repairs as soon as possible. Prolonging the use of a tarp, especially in states like Oklahoma, can lead to new problems such as water pooling on the tarp, damage to the underlying structure, or the tarp itself beginning to degrade.
Keep in mind that leaving a tarp on for too long could also impact your insurance coverage, as some policies may require timely repairs. It’s worth consulting with your insurance provider about this to ensure you’re not voiding coverage by delaying repairs.
What Are The Risks of Improper Tarping?
Tarping may seem straightforward, but poor installation can lead to more problems than solutions. An improperly installed tarp can leak, blow off in high winds, or trap moisture against the roof. If water gets under the tarp, it could accelerate damage to the roof deck, causing mold growth and weakening the roof structure.
In addition, DIY tarping without proper safety gear and technique can be dangerous. For anyone without experience working at heights or on roofs, it’s best to leave the job to professionals who have the right equipment and expertise.
Get Expert Tarping Service From Your Storm Damage Roof Repair Experts
If a storm hits your area and damages your roof, call our experts at A. Fricker Roofing and Waterproofing at (918) 402-7167.
We offer 24/7 emergency roofing services in Tulsa, and the surrounding areas of Oklahoma. Whether you need emergency repairs or a complete roof replacement due to significant storm damage caused by winds or hail, our experienced team is here to help protect your home.
Here is what some of the customers say about us:
“First let me state that I highly recommend Andrew and A. Fricker Roofing. During the tornado that hit Claremore, A. Fricker Roofing tarped our house for free.”
“They went above and beyond to help mitigate and fix water damage that we were unaware of. Communication with Jermey was open, honest, and straight to the point.”
