Cost to Tarp a Roof

On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Home Services

Roof tarping is often a temporary solution to protect your home from leaks, storm damage, or during renovations. Here's a comprehensive look at what it costs to tarp a roof and related considerations.

1. Average Cost to Tarp a Roof

Cost per square foot: $0.70–$2.80 (including labor and materials)
Typical range for tarping a 1,500 sq. ft. roof:
Standard professional tarping: $1,050–$3,000
Emergency services: $1,500–$4,200
Small DIY tarping: $150–$450

2. Key Cost Factors

Roof Size

| Tarp Size (sq. ft.) | Cost Range |
|--------------------------|------------------------|
| 35 | $25–$100 |
| 192 | $135–$540 |
| 1,200 | $840–$3,360 |
| 3,000 | $2,100–$8,400 |

Tarp Thickness

Measured in mils (1/1,000 inch); thicker tarps cost more.
Thicker tarps (10–25 mils) are durable for weather protection.

Roof Design

Steeper or more complex roofs (e.g., dormers, chimneys) cost more due to increased labor and material trimming.

Labor Costs

$45–$75/hour or $0.60–$2.20/sq. ft.
Professionals ensure proper installation, reducing long-term costs.

Materials

Tarp costs: $0.10–$0.30/sq. ft.
Additional materials like nails, battens, or waterproof tape add to the price, especially in high-wind or rainy areas.

Scenario

Emergency services after storms or sudden damage are more expensive: $1.00–$2.80/sq. ft.

3. Add-On Costs for Related Repairs

| Service | Cost Range |
|--------------------------|-----------------------|
| Tree removal | $200–$2,000 |
| Roof inspection | $240 (average) |
| Roof repairs | $400–$1,900 |
| Full roof replacement| $5,800–$13,000 |

4. DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

DIY Tarping

Pros: Lower costs (small jobs: $150–$450).
Cons: Risk of improper installation and safety hazards.

Hiring a Professional

Pros: Expertise, safety, and proper protection.
Cons: Higher costs, but avoids potential water damage costs.

5. How to Save Money on Roof Tarping

Prepare materials: Buy your tarp and hardware before hiring a pro.
Regular inspections: Spot issues early to avoid emergency tarping.
Off-season repairs: Schedule tarping in winter for lower rates.
Compare quotes: Get estimates from at least three roofing contractors.

Summing it up

Tarping a roof can range from a minor DIY fix at $150 to a large professional job costing $4,200+ for emergencies. Acting proactively and hiring experienced roofers can protect your home and minimize costs.