How to tarp a roof temporarily

A temporary tarp can buy time, but it is not a permanent fix and it is not always safe to install without help.

• Only consider it if access is safe and weather conditions allow it.
• The tarp must extend beyond the damaged area, not just cover the visible hole.
• If the roof is steep, icy, storm-damaged, or unknown, do not try to force a DIY solution.

For many Vermont owners, the smarter move is to document the damage and get a response path set up quickly rather than making a dangerous climb.