Back to Blog Emergency Emergency Roof Tarping in San Antonio: What to Do When a Storm Hits Tonight
Mark WhiteMay 15, 20255 min read It's 2 AM. A storm just ripped shingles off your roof, or worse, a tree limb punched through it. Water is coming in. You're panicking. I've been on the other end of this phone call hundreds of times, and here's what I tell every homeowner.
Step 1: Protect the Inside (Right Now)
Move furniture and valuables away from the leak area. Put buckets, trash cans, or storage bins under active drips. Lay down plastic sheeting or tarps over flooring and items you can't move. Take photos and video of everything, the damage, the water, the source. This documentation is critical for your records.
Step 2: Do NOT Get on the Roof
I cannot stress this enough: do not climb on your roof during or after a storm, especially at night. Wet roofs are extremely slippery. storm damage decking may not support your weight. Downed power lines may be on or near the roof. Every year, homeowners are seriously injured trying to tarp their own roofs in the dark. The ceiling damage from one night of leaking is fixable. A fall from your roof may not be.
Schedule a Free Roof Inspection
Not sure about the condition of your roof? We will send a certified inspector to your home at no cost. Same day or next business day availability.
Book Your Free Inspection →Step 3: Call for Emergency Tarping
Professional emergency tarping costs $300-$800 depending on the size of the damaged area and accessibility. That covers a heavy-duty tarp mechanically secured to protect against further water intrusion until permanent repairs can be made.
A proper emergency tarp job uses 2x4 furring strips screwed through the tarp into the deck, not sandbags, not bungee cords, not hope. It should withstand subsequent storms for weeks if needed.
Legacy Home Improvements provides emergency tarping across San Antonio. Call (210) 272-7272, we'll get your home protected.
Got a roofing question? Something keeping you up at night? (Besides that mysterious dripping sound?) Email me personally at mwhite@legacytx.com. I read and answer every single one.
MW Mark White
Owner, Legacy Home Improvements · San Antonio since 1999
Mark has been in the roofing business for over 25 years. He personally inspects homes, works with insurance adjusters, and answers every email at mwhite@legacytx.com.
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