A storm just punched a hole in your roof or ripped off a section of shingles. Water is your enemy right now — every hour of exposure damages your roof deck, attic insulation, and ceiling drywall. Emergency tarping is your first line of defense.
What Emergency Tarping Is
Emergency tarping is a temporary protective cover installed over damaged areas until permanent repairs can be completed. A professionally installed tarp:
- Covers the damaged area plus a 2-3 foot buffer zone on each side
- Is secured at the ridge with lumber to prevent wind lift
- Extends over the eaves to direct water away from fascia
- Uses heavy-duty poly tarp rated for UV and wind exposure
A tarp thrown loosely over a damaged area is not emergency tarping — it’s how people create additional damage claims.
When You Need It
- Any visible hole or opening in the roof surface
- Missing shingles over 2-3 square feet
- Tree impact that displaced roofing material
- Ridge or hip damage exposing the deck
- Anywhere you can see daylight from the attic
If there is active water coming inside right now — call immediately.
What It Costs in Atlanta
Most emergency tarping jobs run $300 to $800 depending on:
- Size of the damaged area
- Roof pitch and accessibility
- Time of day (after-hours service costs more)
- Whether lumber framework is required
Does Insurance Cover Tarping?
Yes — in almost all cases. Emergency tarping is a protective measure to prevent further loss, and most homeowners policies cover it under the same claim as storm damage. Keep all receipts.
Important: Document Before Tarping
Photograph the damage extensively before the tarp goes on. Once it’s covered, your documentation window closes. A good contractor photographs everything before installation as part of their process.
Active storm damage? Atlanta Roofing Experts provides emergency tarping across metro Atlanta and outlying areas, including same-night response. (404) 500-6638“>Call (404) 500-6638 →