When a severe storm hits and you’re concerned about potential damage to your roof, promptly covering it with a tarp is a crucial step to prevent further harm. You have the option to either hire a professional or tackle the task yourself. For those who are hands-on and prefer the DIY approach, this guide is for you. We’ll provide step-by-step instructions on how to correctly tarp a roof, ensuring your home remains protected until permanent repairs can be made. By following these guidelines, you can safeguard your property effectively and avoid the complications of unchecked damage.
The Importance of Tarping Your Roof After a Severe Storm
A tarp on your roof might not be the most attractive solution, but it effectively shields your home from additional damage and leaks when installed correctly. After a major storm, emergency roof repairs can be delayed due to high demand. Understanding when and how to properly tarp your roof is crucial for safeguarding your property, especially with more severe weather potentially approaching. Taking immediate action by tarping your roof can prevent further deterioration and provide temporary relief until professional repairs can be made, ensuring your home remains protected during challenging weather conditions.
Roof Tarping: 6 Steps
Be prepared and keep tarps on hand, especially if you live in an area prone to tropical storms or hail. If you don’t have any, head to your local hardware store and purchase large blue tarps. These tarps come in various sizes, ranging from 12×12 to 20×40 feet. For larger roofing areas, consider buying multiple tarps to ensure complete coverage in case of extensive damage.
After acquiring your tarps, follow these steps to securely tarp your roof, provided it is safe to do so. Having the right tarps and knowing how to use them can protect your home during severe weather events.
1. Evaluate Roof Damage
It is better to avoid the area if you are unable to evaluate the damage from where you are. If your roof is still unstable or has begun to leak inside, you shouldn’t be up there since you could fall and become wet. In that case, tarping won’t do anything and you’ll need to do far more extensive repairs. Call a professional as soon as possible to do a complete and safe evaluation of the damage to your roof if assessing it yourself would be unsafe. They can also set up a time for your repair and begin working on an estimate.
2. Check the Weather Forecast
When severe weather is on the horizon, climbing onto your roof to lay a tarp is the last thing you should do. Lightning and strong winds can pose a significant danger. Prioritize your safety above all else. Your life is far more valuable than your roof. It’s crucial to exercise caution and avoid taking unnecessary risks. Instead, consider hiring professionals who have the proper equipment and experience to handle roof repairs safely. This approach ensures your well-being while protecting your home effectively. Always remember, safeguarding yourself during a storm is paramount, and professional help is readily available.
3. Make sure it’s safe
Ensure your roof is safe and accessible with no visible structural damage before attempting to lay a tarp. If your roof is severely damaged, further harm could result from any actions taken. In such cases, contact a professional roofer immediately for emergency repairs. Attempting to fix a compromised roof without expertise can worsen the situation, risking personal injury and property damage. Prioritize safety and professional assistance to mitigate risks effectively. Expert roofers have the necessary skills and equipment to handle urgent repairs, ensuring your roof’s stability and your home’s protection. Don’t risk it; seek professional help for severe roof damage.
4. Calculate the Surface Area
When it’s safe, take your tape measure and start by measuring the damaged area needing a roof tarp. This step helps you determine the number of tarps required and the supplies needed to secure them properly. Accurately measuring the area ensures you have enough material and tools for a secure installation. Gather all necessary supplies, such as nails, rope, or adhesive, to fasten the tarps effectively. Proper preparation and measurement are crucial for a successful and durable roof tarp installation, protecting your property from further damage and ensuring the tarp stays in place until permanent repairs can be made.
5. Place and Secure Your Tarp
Take out your tarps and cover the damaged area with them. Make sure they are completely covered, with no sagging or holes (you don’t want to cause further harm). In order to prevent water from seeping through the seams and underneath, you need also ensure that there is a four-foot overlap on both sides. To secure the tarp in place temporarily, you should use wooden boards. Starting at the highest point of the roof, place the anchor board and allow any extra tarp to hang over the edge.
6. Place the tarp securely
To avoid having any apparent holes in your tarp, use nails to secure the tarp in place on both sides of the board. Then, go back to a prior nail that you have already secured. Additionally, you should ensure that the boards are sufficiently secure since, if they are too weak, they may flex in severe gusts and cause damage. When the tarp is completely tucked between the boards and the roof, it will provide a strong enough seal to endure any more rain and keep water from seeping underneath.
When it comes to roofing construction, safety should come first. If it is risky to tarp your roof—for example, because the damage is extensive, the weather is getting worse, or you lack the necessary safety gear to complete the task—you should always refrain from doing so. Instead, if you are unable to safely tarp your roof, always contact a qualified roofing contractor. In the event of significant storm damage, several contractors may even provide emergency tarping in addition to their roof repairs.
Get in Touch With our Team of Storm Damage Experts
Our goal at Shumaker Roofing is to make sure that every person has a sturdy, safe roof to shield their house. We will be ready to assist in the event of a catastrophic storm. In order to get your damaged roof repaired as quickly as possible, we offer comprehensive storm damage repair services that include inspections, damage analysis reviews, and simple scheduling. For a FREE quote, give Shumaker Roofing a call.
Conclusion
Safety is paramount when it comes to roofing. If tarping your roof is risky due to severe damage, worsening weather, or lack of proper safety gear, always contact a professional roofing contractor. Many contractors offer emergency tarping services in addition to repairs. At Shumaker Roofing, we are dedicated to providing sturdy, safe roofs for every home. We offer comprehensive storm damage repair services, including inspections, damage assessments, and straightforward scheduling. Our goal is to get your damaged roof repaired as quickly as possible. For a FREE quote and expert assistance, call Shumaker Roofing today. Protect your home and ensure your safety.
FAQs
When is it necessary to tarp my roof?
Roof tarping is necessary when your roof has been damaged by severe weather, such as storms or hurricanes, and immediate repairs are not possible. Tarping helps prevent further damage and leaks until permanent repairs can be made.
Can I tarp my roof myself, or should I hire a professional?
You can tarp your roof yourself if the damage is minor, the weather is stable, and you have the necessary safety equipment. However, for extensive damage or unsafe conditions, it’s best to hire a professional to ensure proper installation and safety.
What materials do I need to tarp my roof?
To tarp your roof, you’ll need tarps, nails, wooden boards, rope or adhesive, and a tape measure. These materials will help you securely cover the damaged area and prevent water from seeping through.
How do I ensure the tarp stays in place during bad weather?
To ensure the tarp stays in place, overlap the tarp by at least four feet on all sides, use wooden boards to secure the edges, and nail the tarp to the roof. Properly securing the tarp and boards will help it withstand strong winds and heavy rain.
How long can a tarp remain on my roof?
A tarp can remain on your roof for a few weeks to a few months, depending on the material and weather conditions. However, it’s important to schedule permanent repairs as soon as possible to avoid prolonged exposure and potential damage.
