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Emergency Tarping Guide: After a Storm in Seattle
When a severe storm hits Seattle, your commercial roof is often the first line of defense against heavy rain, high winds, and falling debris. Unfortunately, storm damage can leave your property vulnerable to leaks and costly interior damage. That’s where emergency tarping comes in—a temporary but effective solution to protect your building until permanent repairs can be made.
At Axiom D7, we specialize in commercial emergency roof repair services in Seattle, available 24/7 to help businesses recover quickly after a storm. If your roof has been compromised, here’s a step-by-step guide for emergency tarping until our expert team arrives.
Step-by-Step: How to Tarp Your Roof After a Storm
Safety First: Never attempt roof work during active storms, lightning, or extreme winds. If conditions are unsafe, call Axiom D7 Emergency Services at (206) 475-2150 immediately.
1. Assess the Damage from the Ground
Walk around your building and look for visible signs of roof damage: missing membrane sections, torn flashing, ponding water, or debris impact. Take photos for insurance purposes.
2. Gather Materials
You’ll need:
- Heavy-duty waterproof tarp
- Utility knife
- 2x4 lumber or weighted sandbags
- Roofing nails or screws (if safe to use)
- Ladder (only if conditions allow safe access)
3. Secure the Perimeter
Carefully place the tarp over the damaged area, ensuring it extends at least 3–4 feet beyond the leak on all sides.
4. Anchor the Tarp
- Option 1 (Preferred): Nail or screw 2x4s over the edges of the tarp to keep it tight against the roof.
- Option 2 (Non-penetrating): Use sandbags or weighted materials if roof puncturing isn’t advisable.
5. Double-Check for Water Flow
Make sure water can still drain toward the roof’s gutters or drains. A poorly placed tarp can trap water, making damage worse.
Temporary Fixes While Waiting for Repairs
Tarping is only a short-term solution. While waiting for professional commercial roof repair, here are a few additional measures to minimize damage:
- Clear clogged drains to prevent ponding water.
- Place buckets indoors under active leaks.
- Relocate valuable equipment or stock away from leaking areas.
- Contact your insurance provider with documented photos and details.
Why Call Axiom D7 for Emergency Roofing in Seattle?
Storms in Seattle can bring heavy rain, windstorms, and falling tree branches, all of which can compromise your commercial roofing system. At Axiom D7, we provide:
- 24/7 emergency tarping & leak response
- Rapid repair for commercial roofs (flat, low-slope, TPO, EPDM, and more)
- Waterproofing solutions to prevent future leaks
- Long-term maintenance plans to extend roof life
Our trained professionals arrive quickly, secure your property, and perform the necessary emergency measures to protect your building from further damage.
Protect Your Business, Even in the Worst Storms
When disaster strikes, every minute counts. With proper emergency tarping and the help of Seattle commercial roofing experts at Axiom D7, you can safeguard your property until permanent repairs are made.
