Hurricane season can bring destructive winds, torrential rain, flying debris, roof damage, flooding, and prolonged exposure to severe weather. When a storm damages a roof, breaks a window, exposes construction materials, or leaves equipment vulnerable to the elements, a dependable tarp can provide an important temporary layer of protection.
At Tarp Supply Inc.®, we understand that hurricane preparation is not simply about purchasing any available tarp. The material, thickness, size, waterproofing, reinforcement, tie-down method, and intended application all affect how effectively a tarp performs during severe weather.
This hurricane season tarp guide explains how we can select the right tarp for storm preparedness, protect buildings and equipment, secure tarps properly, and keep emergency supplies ready before a hurricane threatens our area.
Why Tarps Are Essential for Hurricane Season Preparation
Tarps are among the most versatile items we can include in a hurricane preparedness plan. Unlike permanent construction materials, tarps can be stored compactly and deployed quickly when emergency protection is needed.
A well-selected hurricane tarp can help us:
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Temporarily cover damaged roofing.
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Protect exposed building materials from rain.
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Shield equipment, machinery, and tools.
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Cover broken windows or damaged exterior openings.
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Protect outdoor furniture and stored property.
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Create temporary weather barriers.
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Keep emergency supplies dry.
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Cover debris after a storm.
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Protect vehicles, trailers, boats, and other assets when appropriate.
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Provide temporary ground protection in wet conditions.
Tarps should generally be viewed as temporary protective coverings, not replacements for permanent roofing, structural repairs, hurricane shutters, or professionally engineered storm protection. However, when used correctly, they can become extremely valuable before and after severe weather.
Choosing the Best Tarp for Hurricane Season
Not every tarp offers the same level of performance. The best tarp depends on what we need to protect and the environmental conditions it may encounter.
Waterproof Poly Tarps for General Hurricane Preparedness
Polyethylene tarps, commonly called poly tarps, are popular for emergency preparedness because they are lightweight, versatile, water-resistant or waterproof depending on construction, and relatively easy to handle.
They are useful for applications such as:
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Temporary roof coverage.
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Construction material protection.
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Equipment covers.
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Emergency outdoor storage.
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Debris protection.
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Ground covers.
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Temporary walls and barriers.
When preparing for hurricane season, we should look beyond tarp color and consider factors such as material weight, thickness, reinforcement, grommet spacing, edge construction, and overall durability.
A lightweight tarp may be appropriate for short-term or low-demand applications, while heavier-duty tarps are generally better suited to applications requiring greater resistance to tearing and repeated handling.
Heavy-Duty Tarps for Severe Weather Protection
A heavy-duty tarp can be a better choice when we expect demanding outdoor conditions.
Heavy-duty tarps are generally constructed with stronger materials and reinforcement than basic utility tarps. Depending on the specific product, they may include:
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Reinforced hems.
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Closely spaced grommets.
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Stronger polyethylene weave.
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Increased fabric weight.
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Greater thickness.
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Corner reinforcement.
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UV-resistant treatments.
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Waterproof coatings.
During hurricane preparation, heavier tarps can be particularly useful for covering large equipment, building materials, damaged structures, and property that may remain exposed outdoors for an extended period.
However, heavier does not automatically mean hurricane-proof. Powerful tropical systems can generate forces capable of tearing coverings, pulling out fasteners, or turning poorly secured materials into dangerous debris. Proper installation remains critical.
What Tarp Thickness Is Best for Hurricane Season?
Tarp thickness is commonly measured in mils, with one mil equal to one-thousandth of an inch.
Higher mil ratings generally indicate a thicker tarp, although thickness alone does not determine overall strength. Material quality, weave density, coating, reinforcement, and construction also matter.
For hurricane preparedness, we can think of tarp thickness in practical categories.
Light-Duty Tarps
Light-duty tarps can work for temporary covering, indoor protection, ground sheets, or less demanding emergency tasks.
They are convenient because they are easy to fold, transport, and deploy, but they may not provide the durability required for prolonged exposure to wind and severe weather.
Medium-Duty Tarps
Medium-duty options offer a balance between portability and durability. They can work well for general property protection, equipment covering, construction supplies, and short-term outdoor use.
Heavy-Duty and Super Heavy-Duty Tarps
For more demanding hurricane preparation, heavy-duty tarps may provide better resistance to abrasion, tearing, weather exposure, and repeated use.
When a tarp may need to remain outdoors during storm recovery, heavier construction can be especially valuable.
Best Tarps for Emergency Roof Repair After a Hurricane
Roof damage is one of the most common reasons property owners need emergency tarps following severe storms.
Missing shingles, punctures, fallen tree limbs, damaged flashing, and sections of exposed decking can allow rainwater into a home or building. A properly installed roof tarp can reduce additional water intrusion until permanent repairs are completed.
For temporary roof covering, we generally want a tarp that is:
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Waterproof.
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Large enough to extend well beyond the damaged section.
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Strong enough for outdoor exposure.
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Reinforced around the edges.
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Equipped with durable grommets where appropriate.
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Capable of being securely anchored.
The tarp should extend beyond the damaged area so runoff moves away from exposed roofing rather than underneath the covering.
Roof work can be extremely dangerous, particularly after hurricanes when surfaces may be wet, unstable, electrically hazardous, or structurally compromised. Professional installation should be considered whenever conditions are unsafe.
How Large Should a Hurricane Roof Tarp Be?
Selecting the proper tarp size is essential.
A tarp that barely covers the visible damage may allow wind-driven rain to enter around the edges. We should choose a tarp considerably larger than the damaged area so there is enough material for overlap and secure attachment.
For example, if a damaged roof section measures approximately 10 feet by 12 feet, a tarp measuring exactly 10 by 12 feet would generally provide insufficient overlap.
Instead, we should allow additional coverage on every relevant side.
We should also remember that finished tarp dimensions can differ from nominal cut sizes depending on how the tarp is manufactured. Checking actual finished dimensions before purchase can help prevent coverage problems during an emergency.
Why Grommet Spacing Matters During Hurricane Preparation
Grommets provide attachment points for ropes, cords, tie-downs, and other securing methods.
During severe weather preparation, closely spaced attachment points can help distribute tension around the perimeter of a tarp.
If the tarp is secured at only a few locations, concentrated stress can increase the risk of:
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Grommet pullout.
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Torn corners.
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Flapping.
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Edge damage.
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Tarp displacement.
We should secure the tarp using as many appropriate attachment points as practical while avoiding excessive tension that could damage the tarp itself.
How to Secure a Tarp Before a Hurricane
Improperly secured tarps can become ineffective or dangerous in strong winds.
A tarp should never simply be thrown over an object and expected to remain in place during a storm.
For outdoor applications, we should focus on reducing loose material and minimizing wind exposure.
Key practices include:
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Choose the correct tarp size. Excessively oversized tarps create loose surfaces that can catch wind.
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Keep the tarp tight and smooth. Large pockets of loose fabric can billow and generate additional stress.
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Use multiple secure attachment points. Spreading tension can reduce strain on individual grommets.
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Protect sharp edges. Corners, metal edges, branches, and protruding hardware can puncture or abrade tarp material.
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Avoid creating water pockets. Standing water adds significant weight and may stretch or tear the tarp.
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Inspect the attachment structure. A tarp is only as secure as the object to which it is anchored.
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Remove unnecessary loose outdoor items. Anything capable of becoming airborne should be stored or secured before winds increase.
Once tropical-storm-force winds approach, outdoor tarp installation should not be attempted.
Do Not Depend on Tarps as Hurricane Shutters
Although tarps are extremely useful during storm preparation and recovery, they are not substitutes for rated hurricane shutters, impact-resistant windows, or approved structural protection systems.
A flexible tarp stretched across a window opening cannot provide the same impact protection as a properly engineered hurricane shutter.
Tarps are better suited for temporary weather protection after damage occurs, covering property before weather arrives, and protecting materials that cannot be moved indoors.
Using Tarps to Protect Outdoor Equipment
Businesses, contractors, farms, warehouses, homeowners, and industrial facilities often have outdoor equipment that cannot easily be moved indoors.
Tarps can help protect:
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Generators.
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Construction machinery.
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Landscaping equipment.
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Building supplies.
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Lumber.
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Pallets.
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Tools.
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Agricultural supplies.
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Outdoor furniture.
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Commercial equipment.
Whenever possible, equipment should first be moved to a secure location. If covering is necessary, the tarp should be fitted closely and securely.
We should also avoid operating combustion-powered equipment such as generators underneath enclosed tarps. Generators require proper outdoor placement, ventilation, and clearance to reduce fire and carbon monoxide hazards.
Protecting Lumber and Construction Materials During Hurricane Season
Construction sites can be particularly vulnerable before major storms.
Lumber, insulation, roofing supplies, drywall, hardware, and other materials can suffer extensive damage from water exposure.
Before severe weather arrives, we should:
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Move lightweight materials indoors when possible.
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Secure materials that could become airborne.
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Stack supplies on stable ground.
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Elevate moisture-sensitive materials where flooding is possible.
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Cover appropriate materials with waterproof tarps.
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Secure tarp edges thoroughly.
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Eliminate areas where water can accumulate.
A properly covered material stack should shed water rather than trap it.
Using Tarps for Post-Hurricane Cleanup
The value of tarps continues after the hurricane passes.
Storm cleanup may involve wet building materials, fallen branches, damaged roofing, broken siding, and other debris. Tarps can help organize materials and temporarily protect salvageable property.
They can be used as:
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Debris covers.
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Temporary ground sheets.
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Sorting surfaces.
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Weather barriers.
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Emergency equipment covers.
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Temporary storage protection.
Heavy-duty tarps can be particularly useful during longer recovery projects where coverings may be handled repeatedly.
Canvas Tarps vs. Poly Tarps for Storm Preparation
Different materials serve different applications.
Poly Tarps
Poly tarps are frequently selected when water protection is the primary requirement.
Advantages can include:
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Lightweight construction.
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Waterproof performance depending on product.
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Easy handling.
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Broad size availability.
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Cost-effective temporary protection.
Canvas Tarps
Canvas tarps are valued for durability, breathability, abrasion resistance, and certain industrial or equipment-covering applications.
However, many canvas products should not be treated as completely waterproof unless specifically designed and treated for that purpose.
For applications involving direct rain exposure, we should verify the tarp's water-resistance specifications before relying on it for hurricane protection.
Vinyl Tarps for Heavy-Duty Storm Applications
Vinyl tarps can be appropriate for demanding commercial, industrial, trucking, equipment, and outdoor applications.
Depending on construction, vinyl tarps may offer:
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High tear resistance.
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Strong waterproof performance.
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Abrasion resistance.
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Long-term outdoor durability.
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Resistance to oils or other environmental exposure in certain applications.
They are usually heavier than basic poly tarps, which may make installation more demanding but can be beneficial for certain heavy-duty applications.
Mesh Tarps and Hurricane Season
Mesh tarps allow some air to pass through the material, which makes them useful for applications such as shade, privacy, landscaping, hauling, or debris containment depending on product design.
However, because mesh is not a solid waterproof barrier, it is generally not the first choice when our primary objective is keeping rainwater away from roofing, equipment, or moisture-sensitive materials.
For waterproof storm protection, we should select an appropriate solid waterproof tarp instead.
How Many Tarps Should We Keep for Hurricane Season?
There is no universal number because properties vary substantially.
A homeowner with a small residence may require only several emergency tarps, while a contractor, warehouse, farm, or commercial operation may need dozens of different sizes.
A practical hurricane tarp inventory can include:
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Several small tarps for windows, equipment, and localized damage.
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Medium-size tarps for outdoor property and supplies.
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At least one or more large tarps for roof or structural emergencies.
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Heavy-duty options for demanding applications.
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Rope, appropriate tie-down materials, and compatible fasteners.
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Work gloves and protective equipment.
Commercial operations should inventory vulnerable assets before hurricane season and determine which tarp sizes are needed for each application.
When Should We Buy Hurricane Tarps?
The best time to purchase hurricane supplies is before a storm is approaching.
Demand for tarps, plywood, generators, batteries, water, fuel containers, and other emergency supplies often increases dramatically when a tropical system threatens populated areas.
Preparing early gives us more time to:
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Compare tarp materials.
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Select appropriate sizes.
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Inspect existing tarps.
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Replace damaged coverings.
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Organize tie-down equipment.
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Plan installation procedures.
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Assign storm-preparation responsibilities.
Waiting until immediately before landfall can significantly reduce available options.
How to Store Emergency Tarps
Proper storage helps keep hurricane tarps ready for use.
Tarps should generally be cleaned and completely dried before long-term storage. Folding a wet tarp can promote odors, staining, mildew, and material deterioration depending on the product.
We should store tarps in a clean, dry location away from unnecessary heat, chemicals, sharp objects, and pests.
Labeling folded tarps by size can also save valuable time during an emergency.
For example:
12' × 16' – Equipment
20' × 30' – Roof Emergency
30' × 40' – Materials
This simple organization method allows us to identify the correct tarp quickly without unfolding every cover.
Hurricane Tarp Preparation Checklist
Before hurricane season reaches its most active period, we can use the following checklist:
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Inspect existing tarps for holes and tears.
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Check grommets and reinforced corners.
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Confirm actual tarp dimensions.
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Purchase replacement tarps where necessary.
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Keep multiple tarp sizes available.
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Stock ropes and suitable tie-down materials.
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Identify equipment that may require covering.
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Plan where outdoor items will be stored.
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Move loose objects to secure locations.
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Protect sharp surfaces that could puncture tarps.
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Keep tools and protective equipment accessible.
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Store emergency tarps where they can be reached quickly.
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Review safe installation procedures before severe weather arrives.
Preparation becomes much easier when these decisions are made before a storm warning is issued.
Prepare for Hurricane Season With Tarp Supply Inc.®
Do not wait until a hurricane warning is issued to determine whether the tarps in storage are large enough, strong enough, or ready for use.
Tarp Supply Inc.® offers tarps for residential, commercial, construction, industrial, agricultural, transportation, and emergency-protection applications. Whether we need versatile poly tarps, heavy-duty coverings, canvas tarps, vinyl tarps, mesh tarps, or large protective covers, preparing the correct combination of sizes and materials can make storm response significantly easier.
Prepare before severe weather arrives. Explore tarp options from Tarp Supply Inc.® and build a hurricane-season supply of dependable coverings for roofing emergencies, equipment, building materials, outdoor storage, cleanup, and property protection.
Conclusion: Build a Hurricane Tarp Plan Before the Storm
Hurricane preparation is most effective when it begins long before forecasts show a storm approaching.
Tarps are simple tools, but choosing and using them correctly requires planning. We should evaluate the property we need to protect, select appropriate tarp materials and sizes, inspect reinforcement and attachment points, maintain a range of emergency coverings, and store everything in an accessible location.
For temporary roof protection, outdoor equipment, construction materials, commercial property, or post-storm cleanup, the right hurricane tarp can provide valuable protection against additional weather exposure.
Most importantly, we should never sacrifice personal safety to install or adjust a tarp during dangerous storm conditions. Structural repairs and elevated roof work should be handled by qualified professionals when conditions require specialized expertise.
By preparing our hurricane season tarps and emergency supplies in advance, we can respond faster, protect vulnerable property more effectively, and reduce avoidable damage after severe weather strikes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hurricane Tarps
What is the best tarp for hurricane season?
The best tarp depends on the intended application. For general storm preparedness and temporary roof protection, we typically want a waterproof, reinforced tarp with sufficient thickness and durable attachment points. Heavy-duty poly or vinyl tarps may be suitable for demanding outdoor applications.
Are blue tarps waterproof?
Many traditional blue poly tarps are designed to resist or block water, but performance varies by manufacturer and product grade. We should always check the specifications of the individual tarp instead of assuming water resistance based solely on color.
Can a tarp protect a roof during a hurricane?
A tarp can provide temporary protection for certain roof applications, but it should not be considered permanent hurricane protection. Tarps are especially useful for covering roof damage after a storm until professional repairs can be completed. Installing tarps during dangerous wind conditions should never be attempted.
How thick should a roof tarp be?
There is no single required thickness for every roof application. We should consider material strength, expected exposure, tarp construction, tear resistance, reinforcement, and duration of use in addition to mil thickness.
Should we tarp a roof before a hurricane?
An undamaged roof should generally rely on proper roofing systems and storm-preparation measures rather than temporary tarp coverage. Tarps are most commonly useful for known damage, unfinished construction, temporary structures, or emergency post-storm protection.
How do we keep a tarp from blowing away?
The tarp must be appropriately sized, tightened, supported, and anchored using suitable attachment methods. Loose tarp material should be minimized because flapping increases stress and can cause tearing or failure.
Can we use a tarp over broken windows?
A tarp may help reduce rain entry through an already damaged opening after conditions are safe, but it should not be treated as a substitute for hurricane shutters or impact-rated window protection.
Are heavy-duty tarps better for hurricanes?
Heavy-duty tarps usually offer advantages when greater tear resistance, abrasion resistance, or longer outdoor exposure is needed. However, even very strong tarps must be installed correctly and cannot be considered resistant to every hurricane condition.
Can we cover a generator with a tarp during a storm?
A generator can be protected while it is stored and not operating, provided the manufacturer's requirements are followed. We should never operate a generator inside a home, garage, enclosed structure, or improperly ventilated tarp enclosure. Operating generators requires appropriate outdoor ventilation and weather protection designed for safe generator operation.
Are vinyl tarps better than poly tarps?
Neither material is automatically better for every use. Poly tarps are lightweight, versatile, and convenient for many temporary applications. Vinyl tarps are often selected for heavier-duty industrial applications requiring additional durability and abrasion resistance.
Can tarps be reused after hurricane season?
Yes, many tarps can be reused if they remain structurally sound. After use, we should inspect the tarp for punctures, worn areas, damaged seams, missing grommets, and other deterioration before storing it for future emergencies.
What tarp sizes should we keep for hurricane emergencies?
Keeping several sizes is usually more practical than relying on one oversized tarp. Small tarps can protect equipment and localized damage, medium tarps can cover supplies or outdoor property, and large tarps can address roof or structural emergencies.
