Step 1: Damage Assessment and Safety Preparations

Before the tarp goes on, our restoration professionals follow a strict safety and evaluation protocol:

1. Initial Damage Evaluation

We begin by assessing the visible damage from the ground and, if safe, from a ladder. This includes looking for:

Missing or broken shingles
Holes or punctures
Warped or sagging areas
Soft spots that indicate water saturation

2. Clearing Roof Debris

The next step is to remove any loose debris to prevent further damage and ensure the tarp lays flat. This can include:

Tree limbs and branches
Leaves and moss
Shingles or tile fragments
Windblown debris like garbage or construction material

Clearing the roof not only protects your tarp but prevents sharp or heavy debris from puncturing it or making the roof surface unstable.

Step 2: Leak Containment and Temporary Patching

If a leak is actively dripping water inside your home, we may use plywood or other underlayment materials to contain it. This serves as an additional barrier beneath the tarp and protects your ceiling and interior from immediate water damage.

We’ll also ensure that any exposed areas are completely dry before installing the tarp to reduce the risk of mold growth underneath.

Step 3: Measuring and Sizing the Tarp

A proper tarp installation begins with accurate measurements. A roof tarp should:

Fully cover the damaged section of the roof
Extend at least 4 feet past the damage in all directions
Overlap the roof ridge to prevent water from running under it
Hang past the eaves to direct water off the structure

Choosing a tarp that’s too small will result in leaks, while one that’s too large may be difficult to secure in windy conditions.

Step 4: Safety Considerations (Especially for Homeowners)

Important: We do not recommend climbing onto a damaged or wet roof without professional training and proper safety gear. Slippery surfaces, hidden structural weaknesses, and loose debris can turn a roof into a dangerous environment.

If you must inspect your roof:

Use a stable extension ladder with someone spotting you
Wear non-slip work boots
Use thick gloves and long-sleeved protective clothing
Wear safety goggles
Never walk on a roof if it is visibly sagging, cracked, or saturated

Step 5: The Roof Tarp Installation Process

Once the roof is prepped, dry, and measured, the installation begins:

1. Securing Anchor Boards

Pressure-treated lumber is screwed around the damaged area, anchoring the tarp in place. These boards serve two purposes:

Keeping the tarp tight and wrinkle-free
Preventing wind from lifting or shifting the tarp

2. Tarp Application

The tarp is wrapped around the anchor boards and stretched across the roof surface, pulled as tight as possible. A second layer of lumber may be added on top of the tarp edges for extra wind resistance.

3. Fastening the Tarp

We use deck screws, preferably into the roof rafters, to avoid compromising the roof deck. In high-risk areas, we also use rubber washers to create a watertight seal around screws. This protects the roof structure from further leaks.

What Type of Tarp Is Used?

We use heavy-duty polyethylene tarps, typically:

Waterproof and UV-resistant
Reinforced with grommets and double-layered edges
Available in various sizes (usually 20×20, 30×40, or larger)
Designed to withstand wind and rain for weeks or months

How Long Does a Roof Tarp Last?

A properly installed tarp can last up to 90 days, depending on weather conditions. However, tarps are not a permanent solution—they are designed to give you time to:

Schedule a roofing contractor
File an insurance claim
Avoid further structural damage
Protect your interior while permanent repairs are made

Insurance and Roof Tarping

Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover emergency tarping services, especially if the damage was caused by a covered peril (e.g., storm, fire, tree fall). You should:

Document the damage with photos
Keep receipts from any tarp-related work
Contact your insurance company promptly

We work directly with many insurance companies and can help streamline the claim process for you.

Why You Should Choose Total Care Restoration

At Total Care Restoration, we bring years of experience in emergency response, structural drying, and storm damage mitigation. Here’s why we’re trusted across Miami and South Florida:

✅ Fast 24/7 Emergency Response
✅ Licensed and Insured Professionals
✅ High-Grade Materials and Equipment
✅ Insurance Claim Assistance
✅ Full-Service Restoration—from Tarping to Repair

Contact Us Today for Emergency Roof Tarping in Miami

Don’t let roof damage turn into a major disaster. Whether you’re dealing with hurricane aftermath, fallen trees, or a sudden roof leak, Total Care Restoration is here to help.

📞 Call us now for 24/7 emergency service
📝 Request a free estimate online
🔧 Ask about our full suite of water, fire, and mold restoration services

Total Care Restoration — Protecting your home. Restoring your peace of mind.

Roof Tarping Completely Explained