TarpBags™: Non-Destructive Roof Tarping
A purpose-built anchoring system designed to protect roofs during emergency tarping operations.
A Better Alternative to Sandbags
TarpBags™ are a purpose-built, non-invasive roof anchoring system used by Tarpers® during emergency roof tarping operations. Designed specifically for roof applications, TarpBags™ replace traditional sandbags to help secure tarps without penetrating the roof surface or introducing unnecessary abrasion and weight.
This method supports safer installations, improved roof protection, and more consistent results across a wide range of roofing systems.
Why Tarpers® Uses TarpBags™
Non-destructive anchoring without roof penetration
Reduced risk of secondary damage compared to sandbags
Controlled weight distribution designed for roofing applications
Suitable for shingle, metal, and tile roofing systems
Cleaner, more professional installation appearance
About TarpBags™
Uses onsite water instead of transporting and staging sandbags
Faster deployment: remains in the vehicle until needed, eliminating warehouse trips
More stable: approximately 25% heavier than standard sandbags when filled and secured to furring strips
Safer handling: carried empty and filled at the roof, reducing lifting strain and job-site risk
Eco-friendly: reusable, durable, and designed for repeated deployments
Patent pending (U.S. Patent Application No. 19077578).
Innovative design, exclusive to Tarpers®.
Technical Specifications
TarpBag™ Weight
40–50 lbs
When filled with water and secured to furring strips
Tarp Thickness
10+ mil
Heavy-duty polyethylene for maximum durability
Coverage Area
Up to 30×30 ft
Per tarp, with overlapping for larger areas
Wind Resistance
50+ mph
When properly installed with adequate TarpBags
Installation Guidelines
Furring Strips: 1×4 or 2×4 lumber positioned around tarp perimeter at 4 to 6 foot intervals.
TarpBag Spacing: One TarpBag every 4 to 6 feet along perimeter, with additional bags at corners and high-wind areas.
Recommended Quantity: Small areas (10×10 ft): 6–12 bags. Medium areas (10×20 ft): 12–24 bags. Large areas: 30+ bags.
Water Fill Time: Approximately 2 to 3 minutes per TarpBag using standard garden hose.
Operational Reliability During Catastrophe Events
During major storm and hurricane events, traditional sandbags are frequently diverted for flood control and municipal use, making them difficult or impossible to source for emergency roof tarping. Even when available, sandbags require significant logistical effort, including bulk transportation, staging, and repeated handling.
TarpBags™ eliminate these constraints by using onsite water and a reusable anchoring system that can be deployed immediately upon arrival. This allows Tarpers® to operate independently of regional sand availability, supporting faster response times and more consistent mitigation operations during high-demand catastrophe conditions.
Built for Insurance and Claims Environments
TarpBags™ align with insurance industry best practices by helping reduce supplemental claims caused by secondary damage. By minimizing roof penetration and surface abrasion, this approach supports faster claim resolution and protects the integrity of the insured property during temporary mitigation.
Tarpers® deploys TarpBags™ as part of a standardized, repeatable tarping process trusted by insurance professionals and property stakeholders alike.
Part of the Tarpers® Non-Destructive Method
TarpBags™ are one component of Tarpers' broader commitment to non-destructive roof tarping. Every installation is performed with a focus on structural protection, job-site safety, and long-term property outcomes, not just temporary coverage.
See How TarpBags™ Compare
When shipping, handling, storage, lifespan, and post-event disposal are considered, traditional sandbags typically cost $15–$30 per bag for professional use, with significant logistical overhead. TarpBags™ are competitively priced, reusable, and filled onsite, making them cost-equivalent or less expensive on a per-deployment basis while eliminating many operational constraints.
| Category | TarpBags™ | Traditional Sandbags |
|---|---|---|
| Typical unit cost | $12–$17 per unit (kit-based) | $12–$30+ per bag delivered |
| Fill material | Onsite water | Pre-filled sand |
| Shipping weight | Empty during transport | Heavy, freight-dependent |
| Availability after hurricanes | Always available | Often diverted for flood control |
| Handling and labor | Filled at roof | Multiple handling steps |
| Reusability | Reusable | Single-use |
| Disposal required | No | Yes |
| Roof abrasion risk | Minimal | Moderate to high |
Pricing ranges reflect commonly available retail and pallet pricing for pre-filled sandbags delivered into Florida markets and typical professional use conditions. This page does not reference or endorse any third-party vendor.
TarpBags™ are priced to be competitive with professional-grade sandbags while offering reusable performance, faster deployment, and reduced logistical complexity. For contractors, insurers, and response teams, this results in lower effective cost per deployment over time.
Looking to partner with Tarpers®? Contact us to learn more about our non-destructive tarping methods.
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