Blue Tarps for Temporary Roof Repair in Florida.
When hurricanes or tropical storms hit Florida, it’s not unusual to see entire neighborhoods dotted with blue tarps. They act as a temporary shield against further damage while homeowners wait for insurance adjusters or roofing crews. In this article, I’ll explain how to install a tarp on your roof, what tools and materials you’ll need, the advantages and drawbacks of using one, and why some homeowners in Pensacola, Tallahassee, and Panama City decide to sell their homes for cash rather than face months of uncertainty.
How To Install Blue Tarps On Your Roof?
Professional vs. DIY Tarping
DIY Tarping.
Materials You Will Need for Installing the Tarp Yourself
Hammer
Ladder
Tape Measure
Boxes of 1lb plastic cap nails 1- 1/1/4 inch, use as many as necessary and make sure the nails pierce shingles and decking.
Blue tarps of course as many as needed. Size may vary per home.
“1×2” strips of wood 6-8 ft in length or more spaced about 3-4 ft apart on the tarp, the amount may vary per home.
Penny nails used to nail down the “1×2” strips
- Step-by-step installation:
Start at the ridge of your roof. Place the first tarp at the highest point and secure it with plastic cap nails.
Overlap the next tarp beneath the first, continuing downward until you’ve covered the leaking area.
Nail down 1×2 wood strips every 3–4 ft to keep the tarp tight and prevent wind from lifting it.
Some people use sandbags instead of nails, but this is less secure during strong Gulf Coast winds.
Professional Tarping.
Shrink-wrapping your roof is another method, but it almost always requires a professional and costs $1–$4 per square foot. For that reason, it’s rarely recommended for homeowners attempting DIY repairs.
Some companies — and even federal programs like FEMA’s Operation Blue Roof — may install tarps for free after a declared disaster. You can also check DisasterAssistance.gov or the American Red Cross for recovery resources.
Roof damage is one of the most difficult and frustrating issues to face after a storm, especially with slow-moving insurance claims. For some homeowners, the stress drives them to consider selling altogether.
We buy houses for cash even if a tarp is still on the roof.
Places to Purchase Blue Tarps After a Storm.
Home Depot
Lowes
Ace Hardware
Blue tarps for temporary roof repair are very economically friendly, which is why it’s used wisely by both contractors and homeowners until a new roof can be installed.
Pros and Cons of Using Blue Tarps.
Pros :
Affordable and easy to find locally
Quick to install after a storm
Protects against immediate leaks
Cons :
Only temporary — not a long-term fix
Must be inspected frequently
Vulnerable to wind and falling debris
Not safe for everyone to install (avoid if you have health issues or fear of heights)
The Hidden Costs of Waiting.
Even with tarps in place, water can seep into ceilings, drywall, wiring, and insulation. Over time, this leads to mold, electrical hazards, and structural issues. The American Red Cross warns that mold exposure after water damage can cause respiratory problems and other health risks.
Roof replacement in Florida typically costs $9,000–$25,000. When insurance payouts drag on, the added costs can overwhelm families already dealing with storm recovery.
When Selling May Be the Better Option.
For some Florida homeowners, especially those in Pensacola, Tallahassee, and Panama City, living under a tarped roof becomes too stressful. Between repair delays, mounting costs, and health concerns, selling may be the fastest solution.
If your home in Pensacola still has a blue tarp and the stress of waiting for insurance or repairs feels overwhelming, selling as-is might be the cleanest option. Visit our page on selling your Pensacola house for cash to see how simple the process can be.
Final Thoughts.
Blue tarps are useful for short-term protection, but they’re never a permanent fix. Whether you choose a DIY install, professional help, or decide to sell and move on, the key is acting quickly to avoid long-term damage.