When storms hit North Georgia, they often leave more than just fallen branches. They leave damage, stress, and the question of what to do next, especially if your roof took a hit.
Whether you’re in Roswell, Buford, Alpharetta, or anywhere nearby, knowing how to respond quickly can make all the difference. One of the most important first steps is to secure a temporary roof tarp. It might seem simple, but this one action can protect your home from further damage, preserve your insurance claim, and give you space to plan for full repairs.
Here’s what you need to know.
What Emergency Roof Tarping Is and Why It’s Important
Emergency roof tarping isn’t just about throwing a plastic sheet over your roof. When installed correctly, a tarp acts as a seal over damaged areas, protecting your home from water intrusion and further structural issues.
In the local area, storms often bring heavy rain, and even a small breach in your roof can lead to serious damage inside. A tarp protects your attic, drywall, and insulation long enough for a contractor to inspect the damage and recommend next steps.
It also plays an important role in your insurance claim. Most policies expect homeowners to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage. Tarping is often viewed as part of that responsibility.
How to Know If Your Roof Needs a Tarp
After a storm, signs of roof damage aren’t always obvious. If you notice missing shingles, water spots on your ceiling, or tree limbs on your roof, those are strong indicators that something is wrong. Inside, sagging ceilings, musty smells, or attic leaks also suggest that water is getting through.
Even if everything looks fine from the ground, there could be hidden vulnerabilities. A licensed roofing professional can inspect your roof safely and confirm whether a tarp is necessary.
What to Do Immediately After Storm Damage
If you suspect your roof was damaged during a storm, follow these steps to protect your home while waiting for help.
Please note: This guide is informational only. Never climb onto your roof. Roofs may be unstable after a storm, and inspection or repair should always be handled by a licensed professional.
1. Stay Safe
Do not walk on the roof or enter rooms that appear unstable. If large limbs are resting on the roof or you notice structural sagging, wait for professional guidance before re-entering those areas.
2. Document Visible Damage
Use your phone to take clear photos of shingles on the ground, tree debris, and any water stains inside your home. Snap pictures of the roof from different angles, and note the date and time for reference.
3. Protect the Interior
If there’s water leaking indoors, place buckets or towels under the drip to limit further damage. Move electronics and valuables away from the affected area. If you notice a bubble in the ceiling, you can relieve pressure by gently poking a hole to let the water drain, only if it’s safe to do so.
4. Call a Licensed Roofer
Contact a professional roofing company that offers emergency services. Tarping should be done by trained crews who know how to secure it properly to undamaged parts of the roof. They’ll also handle documentation and help with your insurance claim if needed.
A quality tarp job involves sealing overlaps and ensuring proper drainage so that water doesn’t pool and create more problems. Attempting to tarp your roof yourself can be dangerous and may void coverage under some insurance policies.
How Emergency Roof Tarping Affects Insurance Claims
When filing a claim for storm damage, time and documentation matter. Insurance companies typically require policyholders to prevent additional damage where possible. If you don’t act promptly, your insurer could deny part of your claim, especially for water damage that occurred after the storm.
Professional tarping shows that you took the right steps to protect your home. Be sure to keep all receipts, photos, and notes related to the damage and tarp installation. Before-and-after photos are especially helpful during the adjuster’s inspection.
Why Working With a Local Roofing Contractor Makes a Difference
In the days after a major storm, contractors often flood the area, offering quick repairs. While some are reputable, many are not. Out-of-state storm chasers sometimes take deposits, do poor-quality work, and then disappear.
Instead, look for a local company with a strong reputation and proven experience. A trustworthy roofer will be licensed, insured, and willing to provide real references or reviews. They’ll walk you through the inspection, give you a clear idea of what needs to happen next, and won’t pressure you to sign a contract on the spot.
The right partner will be responsive, respectful, and focused on doing the job right, not just doing it fast.
Need Emergency Roof Tarping in North Georgia? We’re Here to Help
If your home was damaged in a recent storm and you’re not sure where to turn, Clark Brothers is ready to step in and help.
We offer emergency roof tarping and full storm repair services across North Georgia, including Roswell, Alpharetta, Buford, Cumming, and Marietta. Our licensed crews are experienced, fast to respond, and committed to quality from the first tarp to the final nail.
As a veteran-owned, family-run company, we take pride in doing things right the first time. We’ve earned over 500 five-star reviews from local homeowners because we treat every project with care, honesty, and precision.
If you’re dealing with roof damage, we’ll guide you through the next steps, from inspection and tarping to helping you with your insurance claim. You won’t find high-pressure sales tactics here. Just real support when you need it most.
Call (678) 929-7072 or schedule your complimentary inspection to get started.
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