How To Use A Tarp For A Temporary Roof Fix

When tree branches fall and hit roofs they can sometimes puncture the roof deck and create roof leaks.

How to use a tarp for a temporary roof fix.

In the aftermath of a hurricane tornado severe storm falling tree limbs or other cause of roof damage. This step ensures the tarp stays taut and fully protective. This is how we do a temporary repair to avoid further. These tarps are very tough and the grommet holes along the edge allow for tie downs to secure the tarp in place.

Sandwich the tarp by nailing a second 2 x 4 board to the first. Roll the tarp s edges using 2x4 s to secure the wood and nail it to the tarp using 3 inch nails. The board must be 2 feet longer than the tarp s width and it should sit against the roof to avoid the collection of rainwater snow or debris. There are a variety of materials you can use.

Here are the steps to installing a temporary tarp to patch up your roof. Make sure you get one that is large enough to cover the entire affected area and one that is meant to be used outdoors. For temporary coverage our favorite is the ubiquitous blue tarp. One of the fastest and least expensive ways you can make a temporary emergency roof repair is to cover the involved area with a plastic tarp.

Secure the tarp to your roof. But if your roof needs emergency repairs using a temporary tarp is your best bet. Screw the 2 by 4 directly into the roof to secure it. Next on the peak side attach the tarp to the 2 by 4 using cap nails.

To make sure it doesn t blow away in a light breeze you can use your tools boxes of screws strapping etc on the undamaged side wrap one end of the tarp around the 1 3 furring strip making sure the furring strip extends past each end by 1. Then fold the excess tarp under a few rotations for a tight clean fit. Covering the roof is the short term goal. Temporarily screw the rolled end down to the roof with at least two or three screws.

After this step you ll want to sandwich the tarp between another 2x4 and temporarily secure the bottom 2x4 to the roof with a nail. The trick is securing it in place. Remember never walk on the tarp as it can be easy to slip. It s still recommended that you hire the services of a professional roof leak repair contractor.

Now let s get to the good stuff. Fix this board to your roof using a screw as a temporary anchor.