The short answer is yes, but it is rarely the safest or most cost-effective choice for commercial buildings. While installing an emergency roof tarp yourself may seem like a way to save money after storm damage, doing so can expose you to serious safety risks, may not adequately protect the building, and could even complicate insurance claims if the tarp is installed incorrectly.
For commercial properties, emergency roof tarping is best viewed as a temporary measure that minimizes further water intrusion until permanent repairs can be completed. A professionally installed tarp is typically more secure, better able to withstand Florida’s unpredictable weather, and less likely to allow additional damage.
What Is Emergency Roof Tarping?
Emergency roof tarping involves covering damaged sections of a roof with heavy-duty waterproof tarps to temporarily keep rain out after events such as:
- Hurricanes
- Tropical storms
- High winds
- Falling tree limbs
- Fire damage
- Roof membrane punctures
- Structural damage
The goal is not to repair the roof—it is to reduce additional water damage to the building’s interior, insulation, equipment, and inventory until permanent repairs or replacement can begin.
Why DIY Roof Tarping Can Be Dangerous
Many property owners consider installing a tarp themselves to reduce emergency service costs. However, commercial roofs present hazards that most people are not equipped to handle.
These include:
- Slippery roof surfaces after storms
- Hidden structural damage
- Wet insulation beneath roofing materials
- Loose debris and exposed fasteners
- Strong winds that can catch large tarps
- Falls from significant heights
Even experienced maintenance personnel can face dangerous conditions immediately after severe weather.
Safety should always take priority over short-term savings.
Improper Installation Can Lead to More Damage
Installing a tarp incorrectly may create additional problems instead of preventing them.
Common DIY mistakes include:
- Using lightweight consumer-grade tarps
- Failing to secure edges properly
- Leaving gaps where water can enter
- Damaging the roofing membrane with improper fasteners
- Allowing wind to lift or tear the tarp
Once water gets underneath a loose tarp, leaks may continue while remaining hidden from view, potentially increasing mold growth and interior damage.
Insurance Companies Expect You to Mitigate Damage
Most commercial property insurance policies require building owners to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage after a loss.
Emergency tarping is often considered part of this responsibility.
However, insurers generally do not require property owners to place themselves in dangerous situations. If climbing onto a damaged commercial roof creates a safety hazard, hiring a licensed roofing contractor is usually the safer and more appropriate option.
Be sure to document the damage by taking photos and videos before temporary protection is installed whenever it is safe to do so.
Professional Emergency Tarping Offers Several Advantages
Experienced commercial roofing contractors use materials and installation methods designed for severe weather conditions.
Professional emergency tarping typically includes:
- Heavy-duty UV-resistant tarps
- Secure anchoring systems
- Proper water diversion
- Temporary sealing around roof penetrations
- Safe access procedures
- Damage assessment for insurance documentation
Many contractors can also identify hidden structural issues that may not be visible from the ground.
When DIY May Be Reasonable
There are limited situations where a property owner may safely install temporary protection.
For example:
- A small leak on a low-risk structure
- Damage that can be reached without climbing onto a steep roof
- Temporary covering of equipment while waiting for professional assistance
Even then, temporary measures should only be performed if they can be completed safely without risking injury.
Commercial buildings with multiple stories, large roof areas, or storm-related structural damage should almost always be handled by trained roofing professionals.
Focus on Permanent Repairs
Roof tarps are designed to be temporary. They are not intended to serve as long-term roofing solutions.
Extended exposure to Florida’s intense sun, heat, heavy rain, and hurricane-force winds can quickly degrade even high-quality tarps. Delaying permanent repairs increases the risk of additional leaks, mold growth, insulation damage, and higher repair costs.
Once the roof has been stabilized, schedule a professional inspection to determine the full extent of the damage and develop a permanent repair or replacement plan.
The Bottom Line
Although emergency roof tarping may appear to save money, attempting it yourself on a commercial building often creates greater risks than rewards. Falls, improper installation, hidden damage, and insurance complications can end up costing far more than professional emergency service.
For most Florida commercial properties, the safest and most effective approach is to have a qualified commercial roofing contractor install a secure temporary tarp, thoroughly inspect the roof, document the damage, and recommend permanent repairs that restore the roof’s performance and protect your investment.
Shieldline Roofing’s Expert Opinion
We strongly discourage homeowners and business owners from attempting emergency roof tarping unless it can be done safely from the ground or with proper fall protection. At Shieldline Roofing, we prioritize safe, professional temporary protection that reduces the risk of injury and prevents additional roof damage.
Our Key Insights
Falls remain one of the leading causes of serious injuries and fatalities in the construction industry, making damaged roofs especially hazardous after a storm. Professional emergency tarping helps protect both the property and the people involved while ensuring the roof is secured correctly until permanent repairs can be made.
Frequently Asked Question
Can I tarp my commercial roof myself after storm damage?
You can, but it is generally not recommended unless the damaged area is easily accessible and can be reached safely without exposing yourself to fall hazards. Commercial roofs often have hidden structural damage and require specialized materials and installation techniques. Hiring a professional roofing contractor helps protect your building, supports insurance documentation, and reduces the risk of further damage or personal injury. Learn More
Commercial Roof Coatings & Restoration
