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How Do I Temporarily Fix Wind Damage Before Repairs Start?

Last updated October 31, 2026

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The short answer

Safety First

Before you touch anything, check for hazards. Look for downed power lines, sagging ceilings, or broken glass that could injure you. If you see a gas leak, smell gas, or feel unsteady, leave the home and call for help from a safe spot.

Wear sturdy shoes, gloves, and eye protection when you go outside. Move slowly and watch for nails, sharp metal, or unstable boards. If the wind has damaged the structure so badly that doors or walls shift, do not enter until a professional has checked it.

Cover Broken Windows

A broken window lets in rain, pests, and more wind. Measure the opening and cut a piece of plywood to fit, then screw it into the window frame. If you lack plywood, use heavy plastic sheeting taped securely around the frame as a short-term barrier.

Make sure the cover overlaps the frame by a few inches so water runs off rather than behind it. Check the seal after any heavy rain and re-secure if needed. This keeps the interior drier and reduces the chance of mold growth while you wait for repairs.

  • Use exterior-grade plywood at least 1/2 inch thick
  • Cut the board slightly larger than the window opening
  • Screw into the frame, not just the glass
  • Seal edges with duct tape or caulk if available
  • For plastic sheeting, reinforce with furring strips

Tarp a Damaged Roof

If wind has torn shingles or lifted flashing, cover the damaged area with a tarp. Run a tarp from the roof peak down over the damaged section, extending past the edges. Secure it with 2x4s laid across the tarp and screwed into the roof deck, not just into shingles.

This temporary cover helps keep rain out until a roofer can make permanent repairs. If you cannot safely reach the roof, do not climb up. A local water damage pro can often handle emergency tarping as part of the initial response.

Dry Wet Areas

Wind often drives rain into attics, walls, or floors. Move furniture and rugs away from wet spots, and open windows if the humidity outside is lower than inside. Use fans and a dehumidifier if you have them, and mop up standing water with towels or a wet vacuum.

Drying quickly limits the chance of mold and structural rot. If water has soaked into drywall or insulation, you may need to remove the damaged material to let the framing dry. The pros can assess how much needs to be taken out during the repair process.

Document Everything

Take photos and videos of all wind damage before you make temporary fixes. Capture the broken windows, torn roofing, and any water stains or wet spots. Write down the date and time of the storm, and keep any receipts for materials you buy for temporary repairs.

This documentation helps your insurance company understand what happened and what you spent to protect the property. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Keep a list of the damage and your temporary repairs to share with the pros.

  • Photograph each damaged area from multiple angles
  • Record the storm date and time
  • Save receipts for plywood, tarps, and screws
  • Note any water intrusion and how far it spread
  • Keep a written list of temporary actions you took

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Frequently asked questions

Can I patch a small hole in my roof myself?

You can temporarily seal a small hole with roofing cement or a patch kit, but this only buys time. The repair needs a professional to inspect the surrounding shingles and decking for hidden damage. If the hole is large or you cannot safely reach it, call a roofer.

How long can a tarp stay on my roof?

A tarp is a temporary fix, not a permanent solution. It can last a few days to a couple of weeks if properly secured, but rain and wind will loosen it over time. Check it after storms and re-secure as needed. Plan for permanent repairs as soon as possible.

Should I wait for my insurance adjuster before making temporary repairs?

You can make temporary repairs to prevent further damage, and you should. Take photos first, then cover openings and dry wet areas. Keep all receipts. Your insurance company may reimburse reasonable costs for temporary fixes, but policies vary and the insurer decides what is covered.

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