Learning How to Tarp a Roof & Why It’s Needed:
Pattering rain against your window is more than a cozy moment, it’s a reminder that your roof maybe isn’t fully rainproof. It’s not just a quick fix, but an important, emergency protection for your home — covering leaks with a tarp. Read this also wortham brothers roofing
The Prevalence of Roof Leaks: Why Tarps Are Needed
About 15 percent of households suffer roof leaks, usually from heavy rain, snow, or strong winds. Leaks are more than an inconvenience; they can compromise your home’s structure and be very expensive to repair. Roof tarps are a quick fix to keep interiors dry and to prevent further damage, including mold. Tarping is a good solution for short-term use but it’s important to address severe roof problems with a professional, because otherwise, you’ll be paying for the long run.
Roof Repairs vs. Roof Tarping:
When your roof leaks, you’re faced with a choice that is repair now or use a tarp. Depending on the damage and materials, full repairs cost between $300 and $4,000.
Temporarily, tarps are cheaper than repairs that will prevent further damage. A quality tarp costs $50 to $500, plus $10 to $50 for wood strips to anchor it, for less than $200.
Tarps buy you time to save for repairs and prevent expensive, long-term damage and mold. Early action with a tarp will save you money and save your home structure.
Selecting the proper Tarp Material
Not all tarps are created equal when protecting your roof. Knowing which tarp material to choose can be the most important part of using a tarp.
● Polyethylene Roof Tarps
Affordable and performing, polyethylene tarps are what everyone is after.
- Durability: Strong winds and heavy rain don’t bother them.
- Water Resistance: Waterproof, it prevents water damage.
- Affordability: It offers solid protection without breaking the bank.
However, remember that sun exposure will weaken them with time.
● Roof Tarping Heavy-Duty Plastic Sheets
To make preparations for tougher situations, heavy-duty plastic sheets are more suitable.
- Suitability: Perfect for flat roofs or areas with water pooling.
- Versatility: Severe like hail or tornadoes.
- Durability: Tear-resistant materials are thicker and are resistant to punctures and tears better than standard tarps.
Step-by-Step Guide: How To Tarp A Roof
You have a roof you can’t fix and bad weather coming in? Without having to nail the tarp, here’s how to tarp your roof.
Tarping a Roof Without Nails
Step 1: Get the gear: I got a heavy-duty polyethylene tarp big enough to cover any damaged area plus 4 feet on each side.
Step 2: Safety second: Use safety glasses and a harness, because wet roofs can be slippery.
Step 3: The wooden board’s anchor moves: The idea is to use wooden boards—apply the tarp to the roof and use them to anchor it along the perimeter of the tarp.
Step 4: Wipe the boards, tarp edges around the boards and secure them this time with cap nails or screws through both layers, into another set of boards below.
Tarping A Roof While Addressing Holes
Holes invite water seepage. Clean the hole, then put a sturdy polyethylene or plastic sheet over the hole, with ample overlap.
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