Easy Steps to Temporarily Patch your Roof with a Tarp

When your roof is damaged, you're going to need to work fast if you want to make sure that you protect your property, and your belongings from further disaster. Moisture, pests, and other problems can lead to ongoing issues in your home if you're not prepared to patch the hole as quickly as possible.

While it might take some time to find a roofer that you can trust to come and repair the damage permanently, there is a temporary solution that you can access to keep your home secure. A good-quality tarp not only helps to defend you against water damage, but it can ensure that you get your everyday life back to normal as quickly as possible.

Step 1: Prepare

Before you begin, identify the section of the roof that's damaged, and check for any leaks or damaged tiles that you may need to address. Make sure you have a cordless drill, a saw, a knife, and a ladder, then collect the following supplies:

A tarp that's large enough to cover the damaged area, and leave adequate space on each side.
1x4's or 1x3's that you can use to manage the perimeter of the damage.
A sheet of plywood to cover the punctured areas
Vent pipe covers if necessary.

Remember to use caution when you're climbing up onto the roof. Be sure that your ladder is secure, and watch your footing. If you're concerned that you can't manage the damage by yourself, then you may need to call an expert.

Step 2: Applying the Tarp

Once you have everything you need to patch up your roof, cut the plywood to size as required, and cover up any gaps or holes in the roof. Then, unroll the full length of the tarp and make sure it extends about a foot past the end of the roof on the damaged side. Remember, you'll need to hire out the best tarps for complete peace of mind. You need to make sure that it doesn't blow away while you're working, so weigh the tarp down with a box of screws or something similar.

On the undamaged side of the roof, wrap one end of your tarp around the furring strip, and ensure that there's enough space for full coverage. Temporarily screw the rolled end into the roof with a few screws, and repeat this step on the damaged side.

Step 3: Complete the Process of Covering the Roof

Screw the roll side of your tarp down at either edge of your roof, and secure it to the fascia. Make sure that you pull the tarp as tight as possible around the edges of the roof, and apply 1x3 strapping to the whole area with deck screws. You should be applying a screw every eight to twelve inches, depending on the level of damage.

Make sure that you have at least one screw at least 2 to 3 inches close to each edge, and don't forget to secure the strapping fully. Make sure that everything is secure, and then remove everything that doesn't need to be on the roof, including all your tools and equipment.

Your tarp should be secure enough to hold water and other elements out of your house for a reasonable length of time - at least until you're able to call a professional to come and permanently repair the damage to your roofing.