The short answer
Assess the Damage First
Before you climb a ladder, walk around the house and look at the roof from the ground. Check for loose shingles, lifted flashing, or visible holes. Use binoculars if you need a closer look. If you see sagging or cracked rafters, stay off the roof entirely, as it could collapse.
Also check inside your home for water stains, dripping, or damp insulation. That tells you where the leak is entering. Take photos of the damage for your records. If water is actively coming in, place buckets and move furniture before you start tarping. This keeps the situation manageable while you work.
Gather the Right Supplies
You will need a heavy-duty tarp, preferably one that is UV-resistant and large enough to cover the damaged area plus at least two feet on each side. You also need roofing nails or screws, a hammer or drill, a utility knife, and a sturdy ladder. A helper is useful for handling the tarp in wind.
Choose a tarp with grommets, which make it easier to fasten. If you use screws, they should be long enough to bite into the roof decking. Avoid using staples, as they pull out easily in high winds. Have a second tarp on hand in case the first tears.
- Heavy-duty polyethylene tarp, 6 mil or thicker
- Roofing nails or screws at least 1.5 inches long
- Hammer or cordless drill
- Utility knife for cutting the tarp
- Sturdy ladder with a spotter
- Work gloves and safety glasses
Tarp the Roof Safely
Set up the ladder on firm ground and have someone hold the base. Never climb onto a wet or steep roof. Instead, work from the ladder or from the edge of the roof if it is low and flat. Lay the tarp over the damaged area, making sure it extends past the damage on all sides.
Start fastening the tarp at the highest point, then work downward. Place nails or screws every 12 to 18 inches along the edges and every 6 to 8 inches near the center. Overlap seams if you use multiple tarps, with the upper tarp on top of the lower one so water sheds off.
- Work from a ladder, never walk on the roof
- Fasten the tarp at the highest point first
- Space fasteners 12 to 18 inches apart
- Overlap tarps at least 12 inches
- Angle nails downward to shed water
- Add extra fasteners along wind-prone edges
Secure Edges Against Wind
A loose tarp can flap in the wind and cause more damage. Use a continuous line of fasteners along the top and sides, not just at corners. For extra hold, run a rope or bungee cord through the grommets and tie it to a sturdy anchor, like a chimney or a vent pipe.
Check the tarp after a few hours and after any wind event. Re-tighten or replace fasteners as needed. If the tarp lifts, water can get underneath and spread the damage. A well-secured tarp should stay in place until a permanent roof repair can be made.
Know When to Call the Pros
If you cannot safely reach the damaged area, or if the roof is steep, multi-story, or has structural damage, do not attempt a DIY tarp. A fall from a roof can be serious. Also, if water has already soaked into the attic or walls, you may need professional drying and mold prevention.
Local water damage pros can handle emergency tarping and also assess the underlying damage. They have the right ladders, safety equipment, and experience to work on steep or unstable roofs. They can also help with debris removal and roof leak repair. If you live in Rogers, keep a list of emergency contacts handy for storm season.
Need help right now?
Call (479) 370-1500 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (479) 370-1500Frequently asked questions
How long can a tarp stay on my roof?
A tarp is a temporary fix, usually lasting a few weeks to a few months depending on weather. Check it regularly for tears or loose fasteners. The sooner you arrange a permanent roof repair, the less risk of further water damage.
Can I tarp a roof in the rain?
Tarping in the rain is risky because the roof surface is slippery and the tarp is hard to handle. Wait for a dry moment if possible. If water is actively leaking, focus on containing it indoors and call the pros for emergency tarping.
Will my insurance cover the tarp?
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Some policies cover emergency repairs like tarping as part of a claim. Take photos and keep receipts for materials. Check your policy and talk to your insurance company about what is reimbursable.