When the roof of your house is damaged, covering it with a tarp can be a temporary but crucial step in protecting your home from further damage until you can arrange for a more permanent repair. Whether it’s after a storm, heavy winds, or the wear and tear of old roofing materials, knowing how to cover tarp on the roof of a house properly is essential for preventing water leaks and ensuring your home remains protected.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of how to cover tarp on the roof of a house, from the necessary materials to the best techniques for a secure installation. Read on for expert advice on how to shield your home from further damage effectively.
Why You Should Use a Tarp for Roof Protection
Before diving into the steps of covering your roof with a tarp, let’s first understand why this method is essential. A tarp serves as an immediate, temporary solution to prevent water from entering your home through roof damage. Whether it’s a minor leak or a large hole caused by a fallen tree or a strong storm, a tarp can help protect the interior of your home and prevent the spread of water damage. However, using the tarp effectively requires careful attention to detail to ensure it stays in place and offers maximum protection.
Read too: How Long aDo Standing Seam Metal Roofs Last? A Comprehensive Guide to Durability and Longevity
Materials You’ll Need for Covering Your Roof with a Tarp
To effectively cover your roof with a tarp, gathering the right materials is key. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Heavy-Duty Tarp
The tarp you use should be large enough to cover the damaged area completely and be made of a durable, weather-resistant material such as polyethylene or vinyl. Look for a tarp that is UV-resistant, waterproof, and able to withstand the elements. The size of the tarp will depend on the size of the damaged area but make sure it extends a few feet beyond the damaged area on all sides.
2. Rope or Nylon Rope
You’ll need a sturdy rope or nylon rope to tie the tarp securely to your roof. Ropes should be strong enough to withstand wind and rain. Ideally, use a rope with a thickness of around 1/8 inch or more to ensure it holds tight in place.
3. Ladder
A sturdy ladder is necessary for accessing the roof. Make sure it’s tall enough to safely reach the area of the roof that needs to be covered.
4. Tarpaulin Nails or Roofing Nails
These nails are used to secure the edges of the tarp to the roof structure. Make sure the nails are long enough to go through the tarp and into the roof decking.
5. Rubber Mallet
A rubber mallet can be used to drive in the nails without damaging the roofing material or the tarp.
6. Safety Gear
When working on the roof, safety should always be a top priority. Wear appropriate gear such as gloves, a harness, and non-slip shoes to prevent accidents.
7. Utility Knife
A utility knife will help you cut the tarp to the appropriate size if necessary.
How to Cover Tarp on the Roof of a House: Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have all your materials, it’s time to get to work. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cover tarp on the roof of a house:
Step 1: Ensure Safety
Before you begin, ensure that you are working safely. Set up a sturdy ladder that extends at least 3 feet above the edge of the roof. If possible, have someone assist you during the process. Safety harnesses can also be a good investment if you need to work on a high or steep roof.
Step 2: Inspect the Roof Damage
Take a look at the extent of the damage on your roof. Try to determine the exact area that needs to be covered and how much additional tarp will be needed to fully extend beyond the edges of the damage. The goal is to overlap the edges of the tarp with the undamaged areas of the roof to avoid water seeping under the tarp.
Step 3: Measure and Cut the Tarp
Once you’ve determined the size of the tarp needed, use a utility knife to cut it to the appropriate size. Make sure to leave extra length around the edges to secure the tarp properly. The tarp should be big enough to cover the damaged area and have some overhang on all sides to prevent water from getting underneath.
Step 4: Position the Tarp on the Roof
Carefully carry the tarp up to the roof and position it over the damaged area. If the tarp is large, you may need a second person to help hold it in place. Spread the tarp flat so it covers the area without wrinkles or folds that could cause instability or improper coverage.
Step 5: Secure the Tarp Using Nails or Roof Clips
Once the tarp is positioned correctly, begin securing it using roofing nails or tarpaulin nails. Start at the edges and work your way in, ensuring that the tarp is tight against the roof. Use the mallet to drive the nails in firmly, being careful not to puncture the tarp excessively. Space the nails about 12-18 inches apart to ensure the tarp stays in place under pressure from wind or rain.
Alternatively, you can use roof clips, which may be easier to install and remove if needed. These clips are designed to grip the tarp tightly and are ideal for temporary roof repairs.
Step 6: Tie Down the Tarp
After securing the tarp along the edges, use a rope or nylon cord to tie down the tarp at the four corners. Make sure the rope is tightly secured and tied around a solid structure on the roof, such as a chimney or roof truss. This will prevent the tarp from blowing off during windy weather. Double knot the ropes to ensure they don’t come loose over time.
Step 7: Check for Stability
Before finishing, check the tarp to ensure that it’s secure. Tug on the ropes to verify that they are tight and that the tarp is not flapping in the wind. Walk around the roof to check that the tarp is smooth and firmly attached with no loose corners or edges.
Step 8: Monitor the Tarp
Once the tarp is installed, monitor it over the next few days. If you notice any damage or that the tarp is coming loose, fix it as soon as possible to avoid water entering your home.
How Long Should You Leave a Tarp on Your Roof?
A tarp should only be used as a temporary solution. While it can prevent water from entering your home and causing further damage, it is not a permanent fix. Depending on the severity of the roof damage and weather conditions, a tarp can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Ideally, you should plan to have your roof repaired or replaced as soon as possible to avoid further damage and potential mold growth.
Additional Tips for Tarping a Roof
- Avoid Tarping During High Winds: Try to avoid tarping your roof during windy conditions as the tarp may be difficult to secure or may blow off.
- Cover the Entire Damaged Area: Be sure to cover the entire damaged area and at least 2-3 feet beyond it to ensure no water can seep through.
- Use Multiple Layers: If the damage is extensive, consider using multiple layers of tarp for added protection.
Conclusion
Knowing how to cover tarp on the roof of a house is an essential skill for homeowners facing temporary roofing issues. By following the proper steps and using the right materials, you can effectively protect your home from further water damage until you can get a permanent repair. Remember, safety should always come first, and it’s important to act quickly when you notice a roof leak or other damage. If the damage is extensive, don’t hesitate to call a professional roofer to assess and fix the issue permanently.
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