Imagine a sudden storm rips through your neighborhood, leaving a trail of damage. For many homeowners, the first sign of trouble isn’t a broken window, but a gaping hole in their roof. That dreaded moment can send shivers down your spine, and the thought of a leaky ceiling is enough to make anyone panic. In these stressful situations, a roof tarp becomes your immediate best friend, a temporary shield against the elements.
But here’s the tricky part: picking the *right* roof tarp can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many types, sizes, and materials out there. How do you know which one will actually do the job and not make things worse? You want something strong, reliable, and easy to use when you’re already feeling overwhelmed. The wrong choice can lead to more water damage, wasted money, and unnecessary headaches.
That’s where this guide comes in! We’re going to break down everything you need to know about roof tarps. By the end of this post, you’ll feel confident in choosing the perfect tarp for your needs. We’ll cover what makes a tarp a good tarp, and how to install it safely. Get ready to turn that roofing disaster into a manageable situation!
Our Top 5 Roof Tarp Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Winpull Tarp 10x20FT | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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CARTMAN Finished Size 8×10 Feet Waterproof Green Tarp 8 Mil Thick | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
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Dry Top Multi-Purpose Economy Poly Tarp | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
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Gorilla Waterproof Patch & Seal Tape | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
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Amazon Basics Multi Purpose Waterproof Poly Tarp Cover | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Roof Tarp Detailed Reviews
1. Winpull Tarp 10x20FT
Rating: 9.0/10
Protect your gear and outdoor spaces with the Winpull Tarp 10x20FT. This heavy-duty tarp is built tough to keep your belongings safe from rain, sun, and wind. It’s a great choice for camping, covering your pool, or even sheltering your car.
What We Like:
- Super strong: It’s 16 mil thick and made from high-quality polyethylene with a waterproof layer. This means it can handle rough weather.
- Built to last: The edges are reinforced with strong rope and brass grommets are placed every 23.6 inches. This makes it easy to tie down securely and prevents tearing.
- All-weather protection: This tarp is waterproof, UV resistant, and won’t fade or tear easily. You can use it all year long, no matter the weather.
- Versatile use: Use it for camping, covering boats, furniture, or even as a groundsheet. It’s a reliable shelter for many outdoor needs.
What Could Be Improved:
- Size accuracy: While listed as 10×20 feet, the finished size is 10×20 feet. Double-check the exact dimensions if precise measurements are critical.
- Color options: The tarp is brown. If you need a different color, this might not be the best option.
The Winpull Tarp offers excellent protection and durability for various outdoor uses. It’s a solid investment for keeping your items safe and dry.
2. CARTMAN Finished Size 8×10 Feet Waterproof Green Tarp 8 Mil Thick
Rating: 9.3/10
When you need reliable protection from the weather, the CARTMAN Finished Size 8×10 Feet Waterproof Green Tarp is a solid choice. This multipurpose cover is built tough to keep your belongings safe and dry. It’s perfect for camping trips, protecting equipment, or even as a quick rain shelter in an emergency. The green color blends in well with nature, too.
What We Like:
- You get the exact size tarp you order – no surprises!
- It’s completely waterproof and dustproof, so your stuff stays clean and dry.
- The edges are strong with heat-sealed seams and rope inside, so it won’t rip easily.
- Metal grommets are placed every 3 feet, making it super easy to tie down securely.
- Plastic corner reinforcements add extra strength and look good.
- It’s a great value and works for many different outdoor needs.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s a bit heavier than thinner tarps, which might be a small downside for some.
This CARTMAN tarp offers good protection for its price. It’s a dependable option for keeping your gear safe from rain and dirt.
3. Dry Top Multi-Purpose Economy Poly Tarp
Rating: 8.7/10
Need a reliable cover for your projects? The Dry Top Multi-Purpose Economy Poly Tarp, 20×30 Feet, Blue offers a simple and effective solution. This tarp is made from tightly woven polyethylene fabric, making it water-resistant and lighter than canvas. It’s designed for a wide range of uses, from protecting your garden to covering equipment during a camping trip.
What We Like:
- Super versatile – you can use it for almost anything!
- It’s water-resistant, keeping your stuff dry.
- The fabric is tough with a 7×8 weave.
- It has grommets every 36 inches for easy tie-downs.
- It’s lightweight and easy to carry and set up.
- The price is budget-friendly.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s a light-duty tarp, so it’s best for lighter jobs.
- The actual size might be a little smaller than advertised.
- It’s not meant for heavy-duty or long-term outdoor use without extra care.
For everyday tasks and short-term protection, this blue tarp is a solid choice. It provides good value for its price and versatility.
4. Gorilla Waterproof Patch & Seal Tape
Rating: 8.5/10
Tired of leaky roofs, cracked garden hoses, or torn pool liners? The Gorilla Waterproof Patch & Seal Tape is here to save the day! This heavy-duty black tape creates a super strong, permanent seal that instantly stops leaks and keeps water, air, and moisture out. It’s designed to work on almost any surface, indoors or outdoors, no matter the weather. You can even use it underwater!
What We Like:
- Creates a permanent, waterproof seal that stops leaks fast.
- Works on all kinds of surfaces, like roofs, pools, rubber, plastic, and vinyl.
- Can be used anywhere, inside or out, even in tough weather or underwater.
- The tape is weather-resistant, so it won’t break down from moisture or sunlight.
- It’s flexible and sticks well to oddly shaped areas.
What Could Be Improved:
- The tape is quite thick, which can make it a little tricky to apply smoothly on very curved surfaces.
- Once it’s stuck, it’s very difficult to reposition or remove, so you need to be sure of your placement.
This Gorilla tape is a reliable solution for many home repairs. It’s a strong, dependable tape that really lives up to its promise of sealing and protecting.
5. Amazon Basics Multi Purpose Waterproof Poly Tarp Cover
Rating: 9.1/10
Need to protect your gear or cover a project? The Amazon Basics Multi Purpose Waterproof Poly Tarp Cover is a reliable and versatile solution. This large 20×20 foot tarp, with a tough 10MIL thickness, offers excellent protection for a variety of uses. Whether you’re working on a construction site, covering your car, or just need to keep something dry, this tarp is designed to do the job. It’s built tough and ready for whatever you throw at it.
What We Like:
- It’s super waterproof thanks to its double-sided polyethylene coating and sealed seams.
- The 10MIL thickness makes it really durable and strong.
- You get strong metal grommets every 3 feet, making it easy to tie down securely.
- It resists mildew, so it stays fresh and usable for a long time.
- The brown and silver colors give it a classic look.
- It’s great for many jobs, from roofing to protecting vehicles.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, some users might find it a bit stiff in very cold weather.
- The large size, while beneficial for coverage, can be a little bulky to store when not in use.
This tarp is a solid choice for anyone needing dependable, waterproof protection. It’s built to last and makes covering or protecting things much easier.
Your Essential Guide to Choosing the Right Roof Tarp
When a storm hits or your roof needs urgent repairs, a good roof tarp is your best friend. It stops leaks and protects your home from more damage. But not all tarps are created equal. This guide will help you pick the best one.
1. Key Features to Look For
Durability and Strength
A strong tarp can handle wind and rain. Look for thick material. It should not tear easily. This means it will last longer.
Waterproofness
The main job of a tarp is to keep water out. Make sure it’s truly waterproof. Some tarps only resist water, which isn’t enough for a leaky roof.
Size and Coverage
Measure the damaged area of your roof. Then, choose a tarp that is bigger than that. You need extra material to secure it properly. A tarp that’s too small won’t offer enough protection.
Ease of Use
You might need to put the tarp up quickly. Look for tarps with reinforced grommets. Grommets are metal rings that make it easy to tie down the tarp.
UV Resistance
Sunlight can weaken tarps over time. If you expect the tarp to be on your roof for a while, choose one that can fight off UV rays. This helps it last longer.
2. Important Materials
Polyethylene (Poly)
This is a common and affordable material. Poly tarps are usually made of woven polyethylene strips. They are strong and waterproof. Many are also UV treated.
Canvas
Canvas tarps are made from cotton or linen. They are very strong and breathable. However, they can be heavier and might absorb water if not treated. They are good for temporary use.
Vinyl
Vinyl tarps are very tough and waterproof. They are often used for heavy-duty applications. They can be a bit more expensive but offer excellent protection.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Thickness (Mil)
The thickness of a tarp is measured in mils. A higher mil number means a thicker, stronger tarp. For roof protection, aim for a tarp that is at least 10-12 mils thick.
Weave Count (Denier)
For poly tarps, a higher weave count (like 10×10 or 14×14) means more threads per square inch. This makes the tarp stronger and more tear-resistant.
Reinforced Edges and Grommets
Strong, reinforced edges prevent the tarp from ripping. Well-made grommets, spaced closely together, allow for secure fastening. Poorly made ones can pull out easily.
UV and Mildew Treatment
Tarps treated to resist UV rays and mildew will last much longer, especially when exposed to the sun and moisture.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Emergency Roof Repair
This is the most common use. When a shingle blows off or a tree branch punctures your roof, a tarp stops immediate water damage. It buys you time to get a permanent fix.
Temporary Shelter
You can use a roof tarp to cover stored items outdoors or create a temporary shelter for equipment.
Protecting Property During Renovations
If you’re working on your roof, a tarp can protect your home’s interior from dust and debris.
When putting up a tarp, always work safely. Use a sturdy ladder and wear gloves. Secure the tarp tightly with ropes or sandbags. Make sure it covers the damaged area well and has a slight slope to allow water to run off.
Frequently Asked Questions about Roof Tarps
Q: What is the best material for a roof tarp?
A: Polyethylene (poly) tarps are usually the best choice because they are durable, waterproof, and affordable. Vinyl is also very strong but can be more expensive.
Q: How do I know what size tarp I need?
A: Measure the damaged area on your roof and add at least 3-5 feet to each side. You need extra material to tie it down securely.
Q: How do I secure a roof tarp?
A: Use sturdy ropes or bungee cords through the reinforced grommets. Tie the tarp down to strong points on your house or use sandbags if you can’t tie it down directly.
Q: Can I use a tarp on my roof in high winds?
A: Yes, but you must secure it very well. High winds can rip a poorly secured tarp, causing more damage.
Q: How long can a roof tarp last?
A: A good quality tarp, properly installed, can last for several weeks to a few months. Factors like weather and UV exposure affect its lifespan.
Q: Should I use a heavy-duty tarp?
A: Yes, for roof protection, a heavy-duty tarp is recommended. Look for thicker materials and reinforced edges.
Q: What does “mil” mean for tarps?
A: “Mil” is a unit of measurement for thickness. A higher mil number means a thicker and stronger tarp.
Q: Can I reuse a roof tarp?
A: You can reuse a tarp if it’s still in good condition. However, for critical roof repairs, it’s best to use a new, undamaged tarp.
Q: What are grommets?
A: Grommets are metal rings inserted into the edges of a tarp. They provide strong points for tying down the tarp.
Q: How do I store a used roof tarp?
A: Clean the tarp and let it dry completely before storing it. Fold it loosely and store it in a dry place away from direct sunlight.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.