Storm damage doesn’t wait for a convenient time—and neither should your response. When a major weather event hits Raleigh, NC, the first step after ensuring everyone’s safety is to protect the vulnerable parts of your building. Temporary roof protection is essential for minimizing damage before full repairs can be scheduled. Knowing what to do in the critical hours after a storm can save you thousands in repairs and safeguard your property from further exposure.
Whether you’re dealing with missing shingles, punctures from debris, or entire sections torn off, delaying protective measures is risky. Leaks can expand, structural components can weaken, and the interior of your building may suffer costly water damage. That’s why temporary roofing protection isn’t just a stopgap—it’s a crucial step in your storm response plan.
Why Temporary Protection Is a Must
Once a roof is compromised, every minute counts. Rain can continue to infiltrate damaged areas, leading to mold, rot, and electrical hazards. Unfortunately, it often takes days—or even weeks—for roofing contractors to begin full repairs, especially during high-demand seasons.
Temporary solutions help stabilize the situation and prevent further deterioration. These stopgap measures buy you time while preserving your building’s integrity until permanent repairs can be executed.
Common Temporary Protection Methods
Tarping
Tarping is one of the most effective and widely used temporary protection methods. Heavy-duty tarps are secured over the damaged area to create a waterproof seal. Professional roofing companies typically use weighted sandbags or wooden boards to hold the tarp in place without causing additional damage to the structure.
Sealing and Patching
For smaller penetrations or cracks, emergency roofing cement or sealant tape may be used. These materials provide a watertight bond over small leaks until the area can be properly replaced or reinforced.
Temporary Flashing
In cases where flashing has been torn away—such as around vents, chimneys, or skylights—roofers can install temporary flashing or use metal patching material to direct water away from vulnerable openings.
Why You Should Leave It to the Pros
While it might be tempting to climb up and apply a tarp yourself, this is a dangerous decision. Wet, storm-damaged roofs are hazardous, and without the proper safety equipment or training, you could seriously injure yourself.
Instead, contact a trusted local professional like Rhino Roofing. Serving Raleigh, NC, Rhino Roofing offers emergency response services with trained crews who can quickly assess your roof and implement safe, effective temporary solutions. Their team understands how to mitigate further damage without compromising the structure.
Materials That Make the Difference
When implementing temporary repairs, using high-quality materials can make all the difference. Rhino Roofing uses products backed by leading manufacturers such as CertainTeed, which ensures that even short-term protection is durable, reliable, and weather-resistant.
These professional-grade materials stand up to wind and rain far better than generic alternatives you might find at a hardware store. And that’s critical—because even a “temporary” fix might need to last days or weeks.
Documentation for Insurance Claims
Another important reason to have a professional handle your temporary protection is documentation. Most insurance companies require proof that the property owner took “reasonable steps” to prevent further damage. When a licensed roofer provides and documents those efforts, it strengthens your claim and increases your chances of reimbursement.
Roofing professionals can take detailed photos of the damage, provide a written report, and keep records of the materials used—all of which streamline your claim process.
Be Prepared Before the Next Storm
Temporary roof protection isn’t something you want to plan on the fly. Building a relationship with a reliable contractor in advance ensures that when a storm hits, you have someone to call who understands your roof and can act fast.
Rhino Roofing is not just a repair crew—they’re your long-term partner in storm readiness, offering pre- and post-storm services to keep your commercial property protected.
Read also our blog: Understanding Wind Uplift and Its Impact on Commercial Roofs.
