Central Florida summers are known for heat, humidity, and heavy afternoon storms. But they also mark the beginning of hurricane season, bringing high winds, flying debris, and unpredictable weather patterns that can put your roof—and everything beneath it—at serious risk.
One of the most effective ways to protect your home after sudden roof damage is a process called emergency roof tarping. It’s a temporary solution, but one that can prevent thousands of dollars in additional damage.
If you’re unfamiliar with tarping, or wondering whether it’s something you might need this season, this guide will walk you through everything you should know.
What Is Roof Tarping?
Emergency roof tarping is the process of securely placing heavy-duty, waterproof tarps over damaged sections of your roof to prevent water from entering the home. It’s not a repair, but rather a temporary protective measure used in situations where full repair or replacement isn’t immediately possible.
Situations that commonly require tarping include:
- Missing or blown-off shingles after a storm
- Leaks caused by fallen branches or debris
- Roof punctures, holes, or structural exposure
- Damage identified during a storm or immediately after
Professional roofers use fasteners, battens, and sealing materials to keep tarps in place—even in windy or rainy conditions. Proper tarping is critical—it must be tight enough to resist wind uplift, but gentle enough not to cause more harm.
Why Quick Action Is So Important
Time matters after a storm. If your roof is compromised and water gets in, you could be facing mold, ceiling damage, soaked insulation, and more. Even a brief delay can dramatically increase repair costs—not to mention insurance complications.
That’s why Ibis Contracting offers emergency roof repair and tarping services across Central Florida. Our licensed team responds quickly, securing your home while helping you plan for permanent repair or replacement.
How Long Can a Tarp Stay on My Roof?
In general, a properly installed roof tarp can last anywhere from 30 to 90 days—sometimes longer depending on the quality and weather conditions. However, it should never be considered a long-term solution.
As soon as conditions allow, your contractor should return to assess the full extent of the damage and recommend next steps. In some cases, roof replacement may be necessary, especially if underlying structures were affected.
Need a long-term solution? We also provide full roof replacement services designed to meet Florida’s strict building codes and stand up to future storms.
Does Insurance Cover Emergency Tarping?
In most cases, yes—homeowners insurance typically covers emergency tarping if it’s used to mitigate further damage after a covered event like a storm or fallen tree. In fact, many policies require it as part of your responsibility to protect your property.
Be sure to:
- Take photos of the damage before tarping
- Save your receipts and documentation
- Notify your insurance provider as soon as possible
If you’re unsure how to handle the claim, Ibis Contracting can help. We’ve worked with Florida insurers for years and know how to streamline the process.
What If I Can’t See the Damage?
Not all storm damage is visible from the ground. Leaks, warped decking, and compromised flashing can go unnoticed until water starts dripping inside. That’s why we recommend a seasonal inspection, especially after a major storm or hurricane.
Even if your roof appears intact, a trained eye can spot subtle signs of distress that could become serious later. It’s a fast, affordable way to prevent long-term issues and make sure you’re storm-ready.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
If your home takes on roof damage during a storm, every hour counts. Emergency tarping keeps the elements out and gives you breathing room to make smart repair decisions.
Let Ibis Contracting handle the stress. We offer rapid-response tarping, full repair services, and expert guidance every step of the way.
Book your free roof inspection today and protect your home before the next storm rolls in.