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After a terrible storm, you may have realized that your roof is not as indestructible as you thought it was. But don’t worry, there’s a friend in the form of roof tarping that can save the day!
A roof tarp is like a shield that temporarily keeps out water and protects your home from further damage. But it’s not as simple as just throwing a tarp over your roof and calling it a day. That’s why we’re here to teach you how to use a roof tarp in emergency situations, properly. Trust us, you don’t want to be caught off guard when the next storm hits and your roof is left exposed.
So buckle up and get ready for some fun learning because this blog is all about the importance of roof tarps in emergency roof repairs. We’ll be taking a closer look at how to properly install and maintain your roof tarp, so you can have peace of mind knowing that your home is protected.
When Should You Tarp Your Roof After A Storm?
In the aftermath of a storm, you may be wondering when the right time is to tarp your roof. The good news is there are a few clear signs that it’s time to take action. As we mentioned earlier, it’s time to call in the professionals to tarp your roof if:
- Light is streaming through your roof.
- Water is dripping from above.
- Water is seeping through your ceiling or down your walls.
- You see dark or yellow spots on the ceiling.
- You notice missing roof shingles or shingles on the ground.
- Sand-like shingle granules are on the ground or in your gutters.
- You find dents on the roof or dings along your gutter system.
It’s important to act fast when you notice any of these signs. The longer you wait, the more damage can be done to your home. That’s why it’s crucial to contact your insurance company and a professional roofing company as soon as possible. Trust us, it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to protecting your home. So, keep an eye out for these signs and take action if you notice any of them.
Types Of Roof Tarps
When it comes to a roof tarp, there are two types that you should be aware of. The first is a temporary tarp, which is typically used right after a storm to protect your home from water damage. This type of tarp is usually anchored to the roof along the bottom and side edges only, and can be held in place with furring strips or weighted sandbags to prevent wind uplift.
The second type of tarp is a long-term tarp, which is typically used when insurance issues, scheduling, or contract terms need to be sorted out. These tarps are more substantial and more thoroughly fastened to the roof, serving as a temporary roof replacement.
So, whether you need a quick and easy solution to protect your home from water damage, or a more permanent solution until your roof can be repaired, there’s a tarp out there that’s perfect for you!
The Benefits Of Roof Tarps
You might be thinking, why do I need a tarp for my roof? Can’t I just repair the damage myself and call it a day? Well, my friend, let us tell you that a roof tarp is not just a temporary fix, it’s a lifesaver for your home.
First of all, a roof tarp is your best defense against water damage. It’s like having a shield for your roof, protecting it from the rain and any other moisture that tries to sneak in. Plus, nobody wants to deal with the headache of water damage and the possibility of mold and mildew.
Not only does a roof tarp protect your home, but it’s also built to last. These tarps are made with heavy-duty materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions and are designed to be long-lasting. So, say goodbye to constantly replacing your patchwork repair job.
Another great thing about roof tarps is that they’re cost-effective. Compared to the expense of dealing with water damage and the cost of professional repairs, a roof tarp is much more budget-friendly.
Finally, we know that the thought of installing a roof tarp might sound daunting, but trust us, it’s relatively easy. These tarps are easy to install and maintain, so you won’t have to spend hours on the roof trying to figure it out. It’s a quick and simple solution that will save you time and stress in the long run.
How To Tarp A Roof With Heavy-Duty Tarps
Getting a professional team out to fix your roof can be difficult when a heavy storm hits. That’s why it’s important to know how to properly tarp your roof with heavy-duty tarps to prevent leaks and protect your home from serious structural damage. In this blog, we’ll guide you through tarping a shingled roof and provide tips on preparing your roof before a storm.
Safety & Cleaning
First things first, safety is key. Be careful when working on your roof and if the roof is too steep, put the tarp on from a ladder. Never walk on the tarp, and never try to put a tarp on during a storm.
Before you start tarping:
- Remove any debris from the roof.
- Locate the leaking area by looking for torn shingles and missing panels.
- From the attic, check the underside of the sheathing for water stains.
Roll Tarp Over Damaged Portions
Once you’ve identified the damaged area, unroll the heavy-duty tarp over it. Allow for at least four feet of overhang past the peak and let the rest hang off the eaves. Using cap nails, attach the peak end of the tarp to a two-by-four. The board should be about two feet longer than the width of the tarp.
Wrap the tarp around the board so it feeds off the top, and secure it to the roof with screws. This will anchor the tarp in place. Next, attach two-by-fours to both edges of the tarp, perpendicular to the anchor board, to hold the tarp tight against the roof. This will help keep water out.
If needed, cut off the excess tarp on the other end, leaving about a 4-foot overhang. Again, nail the other side of the tarp to a 2×4 and wrap it around the board, pulling it tight against the roof and attaching it under the eave.
To further secure the tarp and prevent tearing, attach two-by-fours down the long sides of the tarp. For added strength, you can add a 2×4 on top of the anchor boards.
Extra Tips For Storm Proofing
Heavy winds can damage roofing or blow trees onto your roof, but those strong winds can also blow against the gable and cause even more damage. Consider adding additional bracing between the trusses and at each gable end. If you don’t have sound structure, it’s a good idea to add hurricane clips where the trusses connect to the walls.
Remember, always be careful when working on your roof. If the roof is too steep, put the tarp on from a ladder. Never walk on the tarp, and never try to put a tarp on during a storm.
How Much Do Emergency Roof Tarps Cost?
When it comes to emergency roof tarping, the cost can vary greatly depending on a few key factors. However, on average, you can expect to spend anywhere from $200 to $1,500. As we all know, tarping your roof is important for protecting your property from further damage, and while it may seem like a daunting task, it’s crucial to make sure that the tarp you choose is waterproof, thick enough to withstand the elements, and is the right size for your property.
One of the biggest factors that will affect the cost of your tarp is the size and quality of the tarp itself. The larger and more durable the tarp, the more it will cost. Additionally, the location and accessibility of your property can also play a role in the overall cost. For example, if your property is in a remote location or has a steep roof pitch, it may be more difficult and, therefore, more expensive to tarp.
Another important factor to consider is the extent of the roof damage. If your roof has sustained significant damage, it may be more difficult to tarp and may require more materials, such as nails and 2x4s, which will add to the overall cost.
If you choose to hire a local roofing contractor, you’ll also need to factor in labor costs and emergency premium charges. However, most roofing contractors will provide detailed estimates so you’ll clearly understand the costs associated with emergency tarping. All in all, it’s important to remember that while the cost of emergency roof tarping can be high, it’s a small price to pay to protect your property and prevent further damage.
How Long Should You Leave A Tarp On The Roof?
You might be wondering how long you can leave an emergency roof tarp on your roof. You may not want to keep it there forever, so when can you take it off?
Let’s talk about how the ideal scenario for roof tarps is keeping them on your roof for the least amount of time possible. Unfortunately, as with most things in life, sometimes things don’t go according to plan. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to leave the tarp up for a little bit longer than expected, don’t worry. If you’ve got a good tarp, without any rips or tears and no water getting underneath it, then you’re good to go.
What about the longevity of the tarp? How long will it actually last? Well, that depends on a few factors. The quality of the tarp, as well as its exposure to the weather, will play a big role in determining its longevity. If you’re concerned that your tarp is not doing its job as effectively as it should, we recommend reaching out to the roofers who put it in place. They’ll be able to tell you if anything has changed since their initial installation.
Now You Can Tarp Your Own Roof
We know that for many homeowners, the thought of tarping their own roof sounds like a hassle, but don’t worry, we’re here to help! We want to make sure you can get back to your life and focus on all the other things that matter.
Whether you need to quickly fix a tarp before a storm hits or want to make sure your roof is in tip-top shape for years to come, we’ve got you covered. Our team at Hepler Contracting LLC has been working with homeowners in the Greater Pittsburgh area for years and is ready to help you with whatever you need.
We know exactly how to make your roof strong enough to face whatever comes its way. So, give us a call today to schedule an appointment at (412) 694-8785.
