We really wish that you would not have to face a situation where you would have to search for a way to tarp your roof. But if the weather has been harsh on your roof and the damage is really worth attention, you should understand that it is an urgent situation and you need to act quickly. With the mindset of an emergency roof tarp, you should first call the professionals so that a permanent solution to the issue can be found. Now is the time to find a way to temporarily tarp your Emergency leaking roof to stop the water intrusion.
Preparation: Gather Your Gear
Before you start with any process, what’s more important is your safety and proper preparation for the task you are going to perform. Because the roof comes with so many risks if it has damages specially after the rain. If you are going on the roof to tarp it, first assess the condition of the roof. Then comes the preparation and gathering of the essential tools and equipment for that task. Having all the tools and equipment before heading to the roof will help you do the process smoothly and save you a lot of time. Here is the list of essentials you might need;
- Nails And A Hammer
- Furring Strips Or Sandbags
- Measuring Tape
- Tarp Or Underlayment
- Ladder And Safety Harness
- Trowel Or Putty Knife
- Tool To Remove Debris, Such As A Roofing Shovel
- Thin Wooden Boards, 2×4 Or Thinner
- Gloves And Goggles
After gathering all the stuff, another practice to follow is to check if the tools are in good condition or not, to avoid any interruptions.
Step-By-Step Guide to Tarping
Here we have explained the smooth steps you can follow to tarp your roof correctly, but if you find it difficult, there is no issue in hiring us for professional help.
Step 1: Find the Leak
The very first step to tarp your roof is to locate the source of the problem, because you cannot solve the issue until you reach the root cause. It is highly important to find the leak in your roof, because water is not dripping exactly from the place where the damage is caused. You can inspect the whole from the outside, such as missing shingles or tiles, and check for stains on the ceiling, look for the damp insulation, and drip points in the attic. At this point, take a picture of your leaking roof, so it can help you in dealing with the insurance company.
Step 2: Measure and Clear
Once you have located the damaged area and reached the source of the problem, the next step is to actually assess and measure the damage. Use the measuring tools and note down every detail and dimension of the damage in the roof. Make sure to measure the right details so you can choose the right size of the tarp. After assessing the damages, now is the time to clear and clean the area of the loose debris and other material, such as shingles and nails. Also, check the gutter system if they are clogged, get it cleaned, so water can have a perfect flow.
Step 3: Create the “Top Anchor”
Water can seep under the tarp when you have not created the top anchor or ridge anchor when tarping your roof. You can use the 2×4 wooden anchor boards on the top side of the tarp, which secure the tarp and prevent the wind uplift as well. It’s not only helpful in high-speed wind but can also reduce the level of structural damage as well. Make sure to nail the tarp with the anchor board lasting and make this fix long-lasting.
Step 4: Position the Tarp
After you are done with creating the top anchor, you need to position the tarp in the right way and place it. Well, although you are doing a DIY and repairing the roof on your own, it’s better to get the help of a friend. Make sure to align the tarp on the damaged area of the roof and cover it completely. The tarp must be taut, and the whole area of the roof where the Roof is damaged.
Step 5: Secure the Sides and Bottom
Securing the tarp is the last but most important step, so there are no flapping, water seepage, or debris that can cause more issues. You can use the screw-gun and screw the board of the tarps. Choose the long screws that can fasten the boards to the roof.
Final Thoughts
Tarping your roof on your own is always a temporary solution, and you should always be looking for the experts to sort the issue permanently, completely, and professionally. Our expert roofers can sort the issue for you and give your roof the actual strength and durability by stopping all the leaks and repairing all the damage.
