When unexpected storms hit Los Angeles, roof damage can happen fast — a fallen branch, flying debris, or heavy rain can suddenly leave your home vulnerable. In moments like these, many homeowners look for a quick fix to stop water from entering their property. That’s where roof tarps come in.
A roof tarp can be a temporary yet effective solution to shield your home from further damage until proper repairs or replacements can be made. But while tarping might sound simple, it’s not always the safest or most reliable option for long-term protection.
At The Best West Roofing, we believe in doing things the right way — with professional inspection, repair, and replacement services that actually protect your home for years to come.
Here’s everything you need to know about roof tarps, when to use them, and why professional roof repair is the better long-term solution.
What Is a Roof Tarp?
A roof tarp is a heavy-duty, waterproof plastic or polyethylene sheet designed to cover damaged portions of a roof. It’s commonly used after storms, wind damage, or fallen tree limbs to prevent water from leaking into your home.
When installed correctly, tarps can:
✅ Protect against rain and debris
✅ Prevent additional structural damage
✅ Give homeowners time to arrange for roof repair or replacement
However, it’s important to remember that tarps are temporary measures, not solutions. They’re meant to buy you time — not fix the underlying issue.
When Should You Use a Roof Tarp?
There are several situations where a roof tarp might be appropriate:
1. Storm or Wind Damage
If high winds lift shingles or break tiles, tarping can temporarily block rain from entering your attic or ceilings.
2. Fallen Tree or Debris Damage
After severe weather, fallen branches can puncture roofs. A tarp helps prevent immediate leaks until a professional team can inspect the damage.
3. Roof Leaks Before Repair Scheduling
If you’ve already contacted a roofing company but are waiting for repairs, a tarp can help prevent worsening water intrusion in the meantime.
The Risks of DIY Roof Tarp Installation
Many homeowners attempt to install roof tarps themselves — and while it may seem simple, it can be dangerous and costly if done incorrectly.
Some of the most common risks include:
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Personal Injury: Climbing on a damaged or wet roof can be hazardous.
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Incorrect Sealing: Gaps or loose sections can still let water seep in.
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Structural Damage: Using nails or screws can worsen roof leaks or void warranties.
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Wind Uplift: Poorly installed tarps can blow away, causing more damage.
If you must use a tarp, it’s safest to have it professionally installed by a roofing company or emergency contractor. However, even with proper installation, it should only stay in place for a few weeks — not months.
Why Tarps Are Not a Long-Term Solution
A tarp can reduce short-term water damage, but it cannot restore roof integrity. Over time, tarps wear down due to sunlight, wind, and moisture.
Here’s what can go wrong if you leave a tarp up for too long:
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Moisture Build-Up: Water can get trapped underneath, causing mold or rot.
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UV Damage: Constant sun exposure weakens tarp material quickly.
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Hidden Damage: Underlying roof issues remain unresolved and may worsen.
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Insurance Complications: Some insurers require timely permanent repairs to maintain coverage.
That’s why, after placing a tarp, you should always schedule a roof inspection with a licensed contractor to determine the true extent of damage.
The Right Way to Handle Roof Damage
At The Best West Roofing, we believe in providing reliable roofing solutions — not just temporary fixes. While we don’t directly offer roof tarp installation, our team can help homeowners take the right next steps:
1. Comprehensive Roof Inspection
We’ll assess your roof’s condition after storm damage, identify leaks, and recommend the safest course of action.
2. Professional Roof Repair
Our experienced technicians handle all types of roof repairs, including:
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Tile, shingle, or flat roof leaks
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Damaged flashing and underlayment
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Storm or wind-damaged roof sections
3. Roof Replacement (When Needed)
If your roof is beyond repair, we’ll recommend a cost-effective replacement that improves your home’s efficiency, value, and protection.
4. Preventive Roof Maintenance
We also offer regular maintenance programs designed to extend your roof’s lifespan and reduce the likelihood of emergency tarping situations.
Why Roof Repair or Replacement Is a Better Investment
While tarping might seem cheaper at first, permanent repairs or replacement often save money in the long run.
Here’s why:
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Energy Efficiency: A properly sealed, insulated roof keeps your home cooler in LA’s heat.
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Durability: Repairs or replacements eliminate weak spots that tarps can’t fix.
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Peace of Mind: You won’t have to worry about the next storm.
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Insurance Support: Professional repairs ensure you stay compliant with most homeowner insurance policies.
In short — a tarp keeps rain out; a repaired or replaced roof keeps your home safe.
What to Do If You’ve Used a Roof Tarp
If your home currently has a tarp installed, here’s what you should do next:
1️⃣ Inspect for Leaks: Check ceilings and attics for signs of moisture or water spots.
2️⃣ Schedule a Roof Inspection: Contact a roofing professional for a full evaluation.
3️⃣ Document Damage: Take pictures for your insurance claim before removing the tarp.
4️⃣ Plan Permanent Repairs: Don’t wait too long; even a “temporary” solution can lead to long-term problems.
At The Best West Roofing, we provide homeowners with honest assessments and expert repair recommendations. Whether it’s replacing damaged sections or upgrading your roof entirely, our focus is on long-term reliability, not short-term patches.
The Reliable Roofing Approach
Our philosophy is simple — roofing should be done the right way, not the quick way.
So while tarps can help during emergencies, the real protection comes from expert repair, replacement, and preventive care. Our licensed and insured team ensures every project is handled safely, professionally, and with full transparency.
If you’ve recently had roof damage or used a tarp, it’s time to restore your home properly.
📞 Call The Best West Roofing at 323-304-3580 to schedule a free inspection today.
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