Top 5 Tips for Using Disaster Relief Tarps

A Quick Guide for Storm Recovery & Roof Protection 

When hurricanes strike the Gulf South, damage to roofs, windows, and structures is often immediate and widespread. Disaster Relief Tarps are one of the most essential tools in the recovery process, helping to prevent further damage while giving homeowners and contractors time to assess and rebuild. 

But not all tarps, or tarp jobs, are created equal. Whether you're covering a home, business, or equipment, here are Eagle’s five key tips for getting the most out of your emergency tarp after a storm: 

1. Use the right tarp for the job

After a storm, it's tempting to grab any plastic cover available. But storm recovery requires tarps that can hold up under pressure. Look for these features: 

• FEMA-grade blue roof tarps 

• 14x14 polyethylene weave (strong yet flexible) 

• UV-treated surfaces on both sides to resist sunlight degradation 

• Aluminum grommets every 18–24 inches for secure fastening 
  

For longer-term protection or high-wind zones, roofing shrink wrap or woven reinforced plastics provide even stronger coverage. 

2. Prioritize safety first

Tarp installation often happens quickly and in unstable environments. Before climbing on a roof or working near storm debris: 

• Wear thick gloves to avoid cuts from grommets or sharp edges 

• Use eye protection if you’re cutting or fastening material 

• Choose non-slip footwear, especially on metal or tile surfaces 

• Never install a tarp during active winds or lightning conditions 

If your roof looks structurally unsound, call a licensed contractor before proceeding. 

3. Anchor the tarp securely

Improper anchoring is one of the most common causes of tarp failure. Here’s how to do it right: 

• Extend the tarp 2–3 feet beyond the damaged area 

• Use screws with washers, cap nails, or sandbags 

• Secure only through grommets, not just through the plastic 

• Create a downward slope so rainwater can run off, not pool 

If you’re covering a flat surface like equipment or flooring, tie the tarp tightly and weigh it down evenly around the edges. 

4. Cover early to minimize damage

Install your tarp as soon as it's safe to go outside, ideally within hours of the storm passing. Why it matters: 

• Limits water intrusion and structural deterioration 

• Reduces the chance of mold and mildew growth 

• Helps support insurance claims (many policies require reasonable protection steps) 

Keep your tarp, gloves, nails, and utility knife in an accessible bin before the storm hits. 

5. Check and replace as needed

Disaster Relief Tarps are temporary by nature. Depending on the weather and exposure, they may need reinforcement or replacement, even after a few weeks. Here’s what to watch for: 

• Torn or flapping sections 

• Pooling water or sagging areas 

• Grommets pulling loose 

• Fading or brittleness from UV exposure 

For coverage longer than 30 days, consider using heavier-duty tarps or shrink wrap systems. 

The bottom line?

Since Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Eagle Industries has provided reliable tarp products to disaster response teams, contractors, and families across New Orleans and the Gulf Coast.

Want to learn more? Visit eagleind.com or reach out to our Sales Team at sales@eagleind.com.