14 Mar

Securing a Temporary Tarp For Roof Repairs

Categories: Roof Repair

You have a roof leak and you are a true Do It Yourself person (DIYer). Although you can call a professional to take on the sometimes difficult task, you decide you want to do it yourself. I totally understand. There are more tools in my garage than I need. And, some days I just want to break them out and tackle something new. It’s a great feeling when you’re successful. But you need to have a plan before you get started. Here are a few tips from our professional roof repair team you might find helpful.

“The Disclaimer”

First, understand it is temporary and you are still going to need a permanent roof repair sooner rather than later. You don’t want to wait too long and find out you can no longer file a claim if the damage is more extensive than you realize. Most insurance companies hold you responsible for doing what is needed to protect the overall home or business. Neglecting to do this can cause big problems down the road. My other word of warning is to not do anything that does not feel safe and comfortable to you. This includes getting up on a wet, slick roof or climbing an unsecured ladder.

Tarping

A plastic tarp is one of the most economical ways to temporarily repair a roof. Here’s the best process we have found at Peak Roofing & Construction.

  1. Go shopping. You will need a plastic tarp designed for the outdoors. Roofing nails. Roofing cement.
  2. Make sure the tarp is large enough to cover the affected areas plus the area surrounding it.
  3. If possible, place the top edge of the tarp over the ridge of the roof to create the best seal.
  4. Place the tarp on the leaking area and smooth it out. You want to avoid big gaps and stretch it as far as possible.
  5. Position 1”x2” pieces of lumber running vertically down the roof to firming secure the tarp.
  6. Nail down the board using roofing nails. A best practice is to also use a plastic washer to help secure the nails.

This is the best and most successful method. However, if you expect your roofing company will be able to do the repair within a few days and no bad weather is forecasted, simply securing the tarp’s edges to the roof and covering them with roofing cement is adequate. It all depends on your specific situation.

Protecting your investment

Correctly securing the tarp will typically prevent further interior damage to your home or business. These damages cost thousands if not taken care of quickly. If you have any doubts, Peak Roofing & Construction has a team dedicated to doing roof repairs in Dallas, Fort Worth and Houston. Call us today and we can get a team to your location for an assessment and emergency roof repair. Call us at (972) 335-7325 (Dallas and Fort Worth) or 281-290-7325 (Houston) today!

About Peak Roofing & Construction

Peak Roofing & Construction is family-owned, with 30-years of experience. Bonded, insured and accredited, we provide roofing, gutter, fence, window and exterior facelift services. Guaranteed. Call (972) 335-7325 (Dallas/Fort Worth) or 281-290-7325 (Houston) today!

Jeff Riss

Jeff has 20 years of sales experience, a love of roofing, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. He leads Peak Roofing & Construction’s team but also is known for getting his hands (and knees) dirty on a job site. His passion for customer service, integrity, and quality craftsmanship drives his success. Peak Roofing & Construction is a family-owned, locally-operated business focused on doing things the right way. His deep understanding of roofing, gutters, windows, fences and exterior painting provide a strong foundation for running the business and serving his customers.
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