How to Tarp a Roof

Tools

• Drill
• Hammer

Materials

• Tarp
• Studs
• Cap Nails
• Ladder

Roof Damage

Rain, hail, sleet or snow — the elements can be damaging to your home’s roof. As a result, cracks, punctures, broken fascia boards and missing shingles can lead to a leaky roof. Water damage can be costly, which is why it’s critical to attend to leaks as soon as possible.

The following techniques can be used to tarp a roof after a storm. If you know you have a weak spot in your roof, you can use these same techniques to tarp before a storm.

When tarping after a storm, take photos of all the damaged areas before you begin, both inside and outside, for insurance purposes.

Caution

Never climb on the roof during windy or wet conditions. Also, once your tarp is down, never walk on it as the surface can be slick.

Tip

Tarping is a temporary fix until you can have a more permanent roof repair or replacement. Call us a roofing professional if you have a damaged tile or slate roof.

Instructions

Step 1

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Clear branches and other debris from the roof to find the damaged area or areas causing the leak. You should also check the inside of your attic space or along the ceiling to find leaks and watermarks.

Step 2

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If you have a large hole in your roof, cover it with a ½-inch or thicker sheet of plywood. Use screws to secure it. This will prevent water from pooling in the hole after the tarp is in place.

Step 3

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Make sure your tarp is large enough to cover problem spots. You want at least 3 feet of excess on each side of the compromised area. You’ll also need a supply of 2-by-4s.

Tip

Unfold the tarp over the damaged area, and cover the peak by at least 4 feet. If you don’t account for the bare ridge line of the roof, water can easily drain down and get under the tarp.

Tip

Have someone help you unfold and keep the tarp in place if possible.

Step 4

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Next, on the peak side, attach the tarp to the 2-by-4 using cap nails. Remember: The 2-by-4 should be about 2 feet longer than the tarp width. Then fold the excess tarp under a few rotations for a tight, clean fit. Screw the 2-by-4 directly into the roof to secure it. Lay more 2-by-4s on either side of the tarp and attach those as well for a tight, well-secured water barrier.

Step 5

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On the other end of the eave, there’ll be excess tarp hanging off the eaves, which you can trim if you like. However, you’ll want to have ample material to nail the tarp to another 2-by-4 and roll it up around the wood. Be sure to leave enough slack to attach this side to the house, just under the eave for a snug fit.

Step 6

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Return to the roof and line the edges of the tarp with 2-by-4s. Attach them with more screws to hold them in place, as well as to keep the tarp good and taut and less likely to tear.