In the aftermath of bad weather, some homeowners in Phoenix, Arizona, face the challenge of a damaged roof. Some prefer to tarp their roofs independently as a temporary solution to prevent additional damage. This decision often stems from the need to protect their home while awaiting professional repairs.
If you’re considering this roof repair approach, you must stay informed and prepared. This guide can help you in the process of roof tarping, providing step-by-step instructions and essential tips to ensure your efforts protect your home from the elements. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or simply looking for a pragmatic temporary fix, this resource will help you complete the task properly.
Can I Put a Tarp on My Roof to Stop Leaks?
Yes, you can put a roof tarp to stop a leaky roof. Installing a tarp over a damaged roof section provides a temporary barrier against water intrusion to prevent further interior damage to your home. But apart from stopping roof leaks, you can use a tarp for other reasons, such as:
- Protection from Debris. Tarps can shield your roof from falling branches, leaves, and other debris, particularly in storm-prone areas.
- Insulation Improvement. A tarp can temporarily improve insulation by covering exposed roof areas and maintaining indoor temperatures by reducing heat loss.
- Preventing Pest Infestations. A well-secured tarp can prevent pests, such as birds or insects, from entering through holes or damaged areas in the roof.
- Minimizing Structural Deterioration. By keeping water and critters out, tarps limit further structural deterioration that could increase repair costs over time.
- Temporary Shelter. In emergencies, a tarp can provide temporary shelter and protection for outdoor areas like patios, ensuring continued use until permanent solutions are available.
How to Put a Tarp On a Roof: A Step-By-Step Process
1. Gather Necessary Materials and Tools
Before beginning, make sure you have all the required materials and tools:
- Heavy-Duty Tarp. Choose a durable, waterproof tarp that extends over the damaged area by at least three feet on each side.
- Lumber Strips (1×3 or 2×4). These will secure the tarp edges and prevent wind from getting underneath.
- Hammer or Screw Gun. For fastening the strips.
- Nails or Screws. Galvanized nails or screws that resist rust are recommended.
- Ladder. A sturdy ladder for safely accessing the roof.
- Work Gloves and Safety Gear. Protect yourself with gloves, non-slip shoes, a hard hat, and other proper safety equipment.
- Utility Knife. For trimming as needed.
- Measurement Tools. Tape measure and chalk line for precise installation.
2. Assess the Damage
Safely conduct a preliminary assessment of the roof damage. Identify the areas that need to be covered and clear any debris from the rooftop. Make sure the roof is dry before proceeding, as wet conditions can increase the risk of accidents.
3. Position the Ladder Safely
Place the ladder on stable ground and secure it before climbing. Remove rocks, tools, and other debris under the ladder’s foot to prevent it from accidentally losing its balance. It may also be helpful to have someone spot you or hold the ladder as you ascend.
4. Secure the Tarp
Carefully unfold the tarp, making sure it covers the damaged section and extends well beyond the affected area on all sides. Ideally, extend the tarp three to four feet past the roof’s edge and down over the eaves to direct water away from the house. Then, lay the lumber strips along the edges of the tarp. This not only keeps the tarp in place during installation but also provides a guideline for fastening.
5. Fasten the Tarp to the Roof
- Front Edge. Begin by anchoring the front edge of the tarp. Lay an anchor board—a sturdy piece of lumber, typically a 2×4—along the tarp’s edge. This board will secure the tarp and add weight to prevent it from lifting during strong winds. Use a hammer or screw gun to attach the board to the roof over the tarp’s edge every 10 to 12 inches.
- Side Edges. Move to the sides of the tarp. Fold any excess material under the lumber strips to create a neat edge. Place an anchor board along each side, similar to the front edge, and fasten it down with nails or screws. This method keeps the tarp taut and reduces the risk of wind getting underneath.
- Back Edge and Ridge Line. If possible, extend the tarp over the ridge line of the roof. For the back edge, lay an anchor board across the width of the tarp and secure it in place with nails or screws at regular intervals. This helps to hold the tarp in place, even in adverse weather conditions.
6. Safety Checks and Adjustments
Secure Fastenings
- Examine each nailed or screwed area along the lumber strips. Ensure that all fasteners are fully embedded and that there are no loose nails or screws. Loose fastenings can let the wind get under the tarp, causing it to come loose or tear.
- Check that all lumber strips lie flat and in full contact with the roof surface. They should be evenly spaced with no visible gaps between them and the tarp.
Tarp Tension
- The tarp should be taut without severe sagging. Sagging areas can accumulate water, which stresses the material or leads to leaks. Walk around the perimeter of the tarp to verify even tension throughout its surface.
- Examine the edges of the tarp. The lumber strips should fully cover them without any frayed or loose sections protruding. You may need to trim any excess tarp with a utility knife and re-secure the strips.
Potential Penetration Points
- Perform a detailed visual inspection for any small openings or gaps under the edges of the tarp where wind or water might enter. Pay special attention to edges and seams where multiple tarp sections might overlap.
- Check areas that typically experience higher tension, like corners and edges at the ridge line. These spots can sometimes require additional fasteners to ensure complete security.
Environmental Considerations
- Consider upcoming weather forecasts. If high winds or heavy rain are expected, add more nails, screws, or even sandbags on top of lumber strips for added stability.
- If weather conditions change suddenly (rain starts, winds pick up), remain vigilant for any shifts in the tarp’s position and adjust immediately if necessary.
Final Safety Assessment
- Remove any tools or obstructions around the work site to prevent accidents or damage to the tarp.
- Clear all work materials, loose debris, or tools from the tarping area and any pathways leading up to it.
- For personal records and potential insurance claims, take photos of the secured tarp, highlighting the secured edges, lumber strips, and the full coverage of the damaged area.
How Do You Keep a Tarp on a Roof Without Nails?
If you don’t have any nails or screws to install the roof tarp, you can learn other methods on how to tarp a leaking roof without them. Some of these tarping techniques include:
- Ballasting With Heavy Objects. Use heavy items such as sandbags to weigh down the tarp. Placing these along the edges and corners can help hold the tarp in place. This method avoids creating holes in the roof or tarp.
- Rope and Anchors. Secure the tarp by tying ropes to its grommets and anchoring them to sturdy structures around the roof, such as chimneys or vents. Make sure the ropes are tightly secured to prevent movement.
- Adhesive Methods. You can use heavy-duty outdoor adhesive tapes or roofing adhesive to secure the tarp’s edges to the roof surface. This approach requires clean, dry conditions for optimal adhesion.
- Clamping. Use tarp clips or clamps to grip the tarp’s edges and attach them to stable parts of the roof or structures nearby. This prevents damage to the roof while maintaining a sturdy hold.
Different Types of Tarpaulin Materials to Cover Your Roof
When selecting a tarp for roof protection, you should choose one that suits your needs in terms of durability, weather resistance, and effectiveness. Here are several types of tarps commonly used for covering roofs:
Polyethylene Tarps (Poly Tarps)
These are the most common types of tarps used for roof protection. Made from woven polyethylene plastic, they are waterproof, UV-resistant, and relatively inexpensive. They are durable enough for short-term use and come in various thicknesses, typically ranging from 5 to 14 mils.
Vinyl Tarps
Vinyl tarps are known for their superior strength and resistance to harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain and high winds. They are made from PVC-coated polyester and are waterproof and UV-resistant. Vinyl tarps are heavier and more expensive than poly tarps but offer excellent durability for extended protection.
Canvas Tarps
Made from heavy-duty cotton, canvas tarps are breathable, reducing moisture buildup underneath. While they are not waterproof in their untreated form, they can be treated for water resistance. These strong and sturdy tarps make them suitable for certain roofing applications, especially when airflow is a concern.
Mesh Tarps
Although not typically used for waterproofing, mesh tarps offer shade and airflow, making them suitable for critical ventilation applications. They are constructed from loosely woven fabric and are ideal for reducing wind lift when complete water protection is not the primary goal.
Silicone/Polyurethane Coated Tarps
These tarps have a fabric-based construction with a silicone or polyurethane coating for enhanced water resistance and durability. They are lightweight yet sturdy, providing a good balance between flexibility and protection.
Asphalt Tarps
Made to withstand high temperatures and rough conditions, asphalt tarps have a special coating that makes them heat-resistant. They are generally used in industrial setups and heavy-duty applications but can effectively protect roofs in extreme conditions.
Top Considerations When Tarping a Roof
When tarping a roof, keep in mind several considerations to guarantee the effectiveness of the temporary repair and the safety of those involved. Here are the top considerations:
- Safety First. Safety is the paramount concern when working on a roof. Secure and stabilize the ladder before climbing. Use protective equipment such as gloves, non-slip footwear, and a hard hat. Avoid tarping in adverse weather conditions to minimize the risk of slips and falls.
- Quality of Materials. Investing in a high-quality, heavy-duty, waterproof tarp is important. It should be durable enough to withstand harsh weather conditions and provide adequate protection against water infiltration.
- Size of the Tarp. Make sure the tarp is large enough to cover the damaged area and extend at least three to four feet beyond it. This additional coverage prevents water from seeping underneath the tarp.
- Secure Fastening. Properly secure the tarp using lumber strips and galvanized nails or screws to prevent wind from lifting it. Secure fastenings are also needed to maintain the tarp’s placement over time.
- Weather Conditions. Consider the upcoming weather forecast. If you expect high winds or heavy rain, reinforce the tarp with extra fastenings or weights so that it remains secure.
- Assessment of Roof Damage. Conduct a thorough assessment of the roof damage before tarping. Apart from the roof, check the structural damage to tackle all the issues in one go.
- Skill Level. Evaluate whether you have the skills to complete the task safely. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable working at heights, hiring a roofing professional in Phoenix, Arizona, to install the tarp may be best.
- Cost-Effectiveness. Consider the cost implications of doing it yourself versus hiring professionals. While DIY can be more economical, make sure the materials and methods used provide adequate protection to avoid further damage.
- Documentation. Document the damage and the tarping process with photos. This documentation can be essential for insurance claims and ensuring the repair process is thoroughly recorded.
How Long Will a Tarp Protect a Roof?
A roof tarp is an effective emergency repair method, typically lasting anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on several factors. The durability of the tarp itself, which should be heavy-duty and waterproof, can determine how long it will effectively safeguard your roof. Additionally, how the tarp is installed will influence its longevity.
Environmental conditions also play a role; exposure to high winds, heavy rain, or severe weather can degrade the tarp faster, potentially shortening its effective lifespan. While a well-installed tarp can provide short-term relief from leaks and prevent further water damage, it should not be relied upon as a long-term solution.
Fix the Main Issue at Hand—Hire Professional Roofers From Stonecreek Roofing Today!
After you’ve learned how to secure a tarp to a roof, partner up with Stonecreek Roofing right away so that our roofing contractor can fix the roof damage. Our team of roofing specialists in Phoenix, Arizona, uses more than just wooden boards and nails; they use state-of-the-art tools and equipment to fix the problem. They also have years of experience handling different roofing problems, so rest assured that your home will be safe in no time. Call us immediately if your roof tarp is about to come off so we can provide the necessary roofing solutions.