Emergency Roof Protection

Anybody who lives where hurricanes or tornados are a regular threat needs to know a little about emergency repairs. But that same know-how can be helpful in other parts of the country, too. It doesn't take much for a heavy tree limb to snap and take out part of a roof, for instance.

Basically, what you want to do is cover the damage with a woven plastic tarp that is held in place with 1x3 wood strips. Here's how I do it. First I roll one end at least twice around a long 1x3, then screw it to the undamaged side of the roof. The 1x3 "roll"should be against the roof so it won't collect water and debris. The rest of the tarp goes over the ridge and down the other side of the roof several feet beyond the damage. Then I roll the opposite end of the tarp around another 1x3 and screw it to the roof sheathing, roll side down. Now it's just a matter of using more 1x3s and screws to hold down the tarp's sides. They don't have to be rolled in the tarp. A "blue roof"isn't pretty, I'll admit, but it will keep the weather out until someone can repair the damage.

Having said that, this type of emergency repair is best left to someone who has the equipment and skill to do it safely. Roofs are treacherous, particularly when wet, and tarps are slippery even when dry. You don't want to be wrestling with one in high winds, either. Better to submit a claim for property insurance than to have your family submit a claim for life insurance.

Scource: This Old House

More information of how to tarp a roof for emergency situations, such as Hurricanes, can be found on our website at the following link

canopiesandtarps.com/learn-how-to-tarp-a-roof

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Using A Tarps Around The House.

Tarps can be used for a multitude of purposes and can be found in just about every industry. Aside from the commercial benefits, tarps can be very useful around the house as well. Although tarps are widely used among both residents and businesses there is still a large portion of the population that does not know exactly what a tarp is. It is usually after an explanation that people realize that they have either seen a tarp at one time or have actually used one. This is probably due to the fact that the tarp has many names amongst its users. Some of the most common references are covers, sheeting, canopy top, ground cover and so on.

The word tarp is derived from its full name, the tarpaulin and is defined by most dictionaries as a material used to cover and protect objects from moisture such as waterproof canvas. This definition can be a little misleading because not all tarps are made of canvas materials. Aside from canvas there are several other fabrics that comprise the tarpaulin including vinyl, nylon and polyester. However, the most common and most popular fabric used in tarp manufacturing today is polyethylene. Polyethylene tarps are also referred to as poly tarps and are the most widely used cover for outdoor protection today.

Poly tarps can be found on just about every outdoor canopy structure sold in retail stores and is ideal for several reasons. During the manufacturing process, thousands of threads are cross weaved before the lamination and grommet process. These poly fibers are naturally resistant to rot, mildew and mold. Stacked in three layers, the poly tarp is then laminated with a waterproof and UV resistant laminate, which produces an end product that is not only lightweight but also durable and cost effective. The grommets are set every eighteen inches and reinforced with rope edges that are hemmed.


This lightweight, durable tarp product is great for all types of uses at home and is a key essential for travel and road trips. Some of the most common uses for poly tarps in a residential setting include roof protection, gardening, patio shade, car protection, ground cover and can even be used as a drop cloth for painting and other household repairs. The poly tarp is also the perfect travel companion and works great as ground bedding for camping tents. With so many available sizes and colors, there is a poly tarp for any and all applications whether it be for residential or commercial use.

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Relief Tarps

Tarps play a significant role in the recovery efforts after major natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, oil spoils, earthquakes and tropical storms. Used for many different applications, tarps provide both temporary shelter and refuge from heat and foul weather as the recovery efforts take place. In addition, tarp covers can also be used to prevent further damage to buildings and houses when used on rooftops. The temporary coverage provided by the tarpaulin is essential in the recovery process for both the victims and emergency personnel. The tarpaulin is made using woven polyethylene and is then laminated for a finished product that is both durable and waterproof. It is the natural characteristics of polyethylene, which makes the poly tarp so effective in these situations. Polyethylene is not only naturally resistant to mold, mildew and rot but is also designed to be both waterproof and UV resistant. The use of the relief tarp can be categorized into four main categories and include temporary roof coverage, ground cover, triage and shelter.


During Hurricane Katrina the tarp was used and widely distributed by FEMA during Operation Blue Roof. Both volunteer and contracted workers installed thousands of tarps to rooftops where damage was evident. The tarp was both a cost effective and dependable solution for temporary coverage and prevented structures from further damage until permanent repairs could take place. The simple act of using a waterproof cover in these relief situations allowed residents to remain in their homes while the recovery efforts continued. The roof tarp is easily installed using strips of 2 x 4 wooden studs and nails.


The tarp can be used as a ground cover for victims as emergency workers provide medical attention as well as an area where essential supplies can be stored. As a ground cover, tarps act as a waterproof membrane and allow vital operations to continue without the disruption of moisture. In addition, the tarp can be used on hillsides and slopes as a way to control erosion after heavy rains. Using a tarpaulin as a ground cover for tents is an ideal way not only prevent moisture from entering the living space but also acts as a protective barrier from hard debris such as rocks and sticks.


In triage situations it is vital to operations that all victims be separated based on the severity of injury. Colored tarps such as Red, Yellow and Green allow emergency personnel to properly and efficiently separate those based on need. Generally, the green tarps are used for the walking wounded or those with non-life threatening injuries. The yellow tarps are used for those with moderate injuries and the red tarps for those that need immediate assistance. The ability to use colored tarps that are both weather resistant and portable is a huge advantage for first responders.


The tarpaulin can be used by itself or in conjunction with a framed structure to provide shelter in the form of a canopy tent. When used with a structure, the tarp provides an instant shelter where rescue operations can take place as well as, a place for those without homes to find refuge. Both the framed structure and the tarp can be made with lightweight materials for easy transport and quick assembly.


The tarpaulin is a vital tool in relief and recovery efforts both before during and after a natural disaster occurs. Whether the tarp is being used for temporary roof repair, as ground cover, triage or as an instant shelter, the benefits are both advantageous and invaluable. Poly tarps are manufactured and available in a wide variety of colors and sizes. The strong yet lightweight material makes the tarp cover a key element in any disaster situation.

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Preparing For The 2010 Hurricane Season

This year’s hurricane season is predicted to be the most active since the record breaking 2005 season. Every agency from Weather Services International to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are predicting that six to nine major hurricanes will make landfall. This is in part due to warmer water temperatures. Although the predictions are still premature, there is a much higher probability of above average activity if there is an immediate transition from El Nino to La Nina. An article from, ( Daily Finance ) discusses the potential financial devastation that this hurricane season could bring.

Despite the yearly predictions, it is always best to prepare for the hurricane season before any storms occur with essential hurricane supplies. Some of the necessary essentials include materials such as wood shutters, plywood, water, tarps and plenty of food. In addition to supplies, having a dependable evacuation plan is extremely important. In the event that a hurricane is forecasted for your area, pay close attention to broadcasts and obey all requests and warnings issued by your local government.

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Useful Tips When Installing A Roof Tarp.

As the 2010 hurricane season approaches it is important to start preparing the necessary supplies that will help you weather the storms. Aside from the extra food, water and medical supplies that are needed, a solid waterproof tarp should be included in every household survival kit. Tarps can be used for a number of different applications but are the ideal choice for emergency roof repairs after a storm. However, there are some important aspects to installing a roof tarp that should be considered. Installing a roof tarp can be dangerous and should never be attempted if your safety is in question or if there is a professional available to do the job.

Identifying the damaged areas after a storm is your first objective. You want to look for indicators that damage has occurred by doing a quick walk through of the interior and exterior of the house. You want to look for disturbed shingles, dipping or indentations to the roof, broken roof tiles, missing sheet metal panels and last but not least water damage to the inside of the house caused by leaking. Once the damaged areas have been assessed you may begin the application process. In addition to a tarp cover, you will also need a ladder, some 2 x 4 wooden studs and 3-1/4” screws or nails.

Start by laying out the tarp cover over the desired space. Multiple roof tarps may be required to completely cover an area. If two or more pieces are need then it is best to simply adjoin the two pieces by overlapping them. To overlap the tarp, use a long single piece of wood that is longer than the width of the tarp. Place the wood strip on the edge of the tarp cover that is overlapping the bottom one. Begin folding the wood strip back on itself for three full rotations. This will create enough of a seal to keep the two covers watertight. Next, Cut the 2 x 4 strips into 2 to 3 foot sections along the perimeter of the roof just at the edge of the tarp cover. Try to space the strips of wood about 1 foot apart from one another. Spacing the 2 x 4 strips apart from one another will allow water and debris to safely run off the rooftop without disturbing the cover. Finally, use the screws to secure each 2 x 4 wooden strip of wood to the rooftop.

Installing a roof tarp should only be done in emergency situations when a professional is unavailable. The tarp covers should never be installed in dangerous conditions or while the storm is active. If you have any doubts about the safety of the situation then stop working immediately and wait for a roofing contractor to finish the job.

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Using A Roof Tarp In Emergency Situations.

Following any major storm the next crucial step is damage assessment. As part of the assessment process it is important to note the areas most critically affected by the storm and make temporary repairs to stabilize your home until a professional contractor is available. One of the most common types of damage after major storms is roof damage. Using a tarp to cover the damaged areas is crucial until more permanent repairs can be made. Immediate action in emergency situations can prevent further deterioration to the exposed areas of a roof and can greatly reduce future repair costs. However, tarping a roof should only be done if there is an immediate threat of further damage and a professional is not available to complete the task. When making tarp repairs to a roof it is always best to use the buddy system and have a friend or neighbor assist you with the project. Avoid standing on steeply pitched rooftops and never stand directly on the tarp when applying it to the roof, especially if it is wet.

Identifying the damaged areas caused by hurricanes, tropical storms and other natural elements can be difficult at first sight but there are some key indicators that damage has occurred. Some of those key indicators include but are not limited to disturbed shingles caused by high winds, dipping or indentations to the roof, broken roof tiles, missing sheet metal panels and of course water damage to the inside of the house due to leaking or dripping. Water will travel the path of least resistance so the area the leak appears to be in may not actually be the origin. If possible, try to track the water leak to its origin. In order to accomplish this you may have to crawl in the attic or even cut a square out of the ceiling drywall to find the source.

Once all damaged areas have been assessed, the tarp process can be initiated. There are a couple of different options available for roof covers but a polyethylene tarp is the preferred fabric due to its tear resistant qualities. It is safer and more manageable to use several smaller covers than one large cover. In addition to a tarp cover, some other items are essential for the process and include a ladder, a pair of heavy-duty gloves, a hammer, safety glasses, a cutting instrument, several 2 x 4 wooden studs and 3-1/4” screws or framing nails. Start by laying out the tarpaulin over the damaged area. If you need to use multiple tarps to completely cover an area then connect the two pieces by overlapping them. Use a 2 x 4 strip of wood that is longer than the width of the tarp and place it on top of the tarps edge that is overlapping the bottom cover. Fold the wood strip back on itself with both the bottom and top tarp at the same time. Complete three full rotations before securing the 2 x 4 strip to the roof with nails or screws. The folding of the tarps with the wood strip will create a seal and prevent water from seeping through the two separate covers. Place an additional strip of wood, of equal length, on top of the first and secure it with nails or screws. The sandwich effect will further reduce water seepage as well as, strengthen the hold on the roof. The final step in the process will require placing 2 x 4 strips of wood cut into 3 or 4-foot sections along the perimeter of the tarp cover. Try to space the strips of wood about 1 foot apart from one another. The space between strips will allow the movement of water, dirt and debris and prevent it from collecting on top of the tarp and damaged area.

Safety is of the utmost importance and using a tarp cover, as a temporary solution should only be done in an emergency situation. Never attempt to repair a roof during a storm and always stop working if the weather starts to worsen. Roof repairs are best left to the professionals, so if there is any professional assistance available please use it. Furthermore, always remember to use the buddy system when on a roof or using ladders. Roofs can be extremely dangerous and under no circumstances should these steps be attempted in foul weather or unsafe conditions. These instructions are just a suggestion and the author holds no liability or responsibility for accidents that may occur during the repair nor holds any responsibility for faulty repairs. Furthermore, it is recommended that you consult with a professional if there is any doubt whatsoever about safety or procedure.

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