During extreme weather events in Portland, Oregon, property owners should expect some form of damage to their buildings. One of the most common issues is unexpected roof damage, which is stressful and complicated to deal with. It becomes even more challenging when you don’t have the budget to fix the damaged roofing right away, so the next best thing is roof tarping.
Many property owners think that fixing a leaking roof is as easy as placing and nailing the tarp on the roof, but several factors must be considered to install it correctly. If you plan on learning how to tarp a leaking roof, take note of the steps below to achieve desirable results.
Roof tarping is a short-term emergency repair solution that covers a damaged or compromised roof to prevent further damage from severe weather conditions like rain, wind, or snow. This technique is often used after a roof has been damaged by storms, hurricanes, or falling debris until permanent repairs can be made.
It’s important to protect your building’s interior after severe storms and winds destroy your roofing system. While you may think a simple tarp will not work, you can find a few benefits that may change your mind:
For those who prefer doing the roof tarping themselves, there are specific steps to achieve proper installation. A properly installed tarp is important to prevent it from coming off due to strong winds. Here’s a detailed guide on how to secure a tarp to a roof:
Begin by inspecting the extent and location of the damage. Prioritize safety during the first step, as working on a roof can be dangerous. Make sure you have the proper safety equipment, such as non-slip shoes, a safety harness, and a hard hat. It is also advisable to have a second person assist you for extra support. Evaluate weather conditions before starting, as handling this task during inclement weather can increase the risk of accidents.
Collect necessary materials before heading up to the roof. You will need a durable, waterproof tarp that extends at least three feet beyond the damaged area in every direction. Additional materials include:
Preparing everything beforehand will lower the time spent on the roof and reduce the risk of accidents.
When you’re on the roof, clear away debris, such as broken shingles, branches, or loose materials around the damaged area. A clean surface is crucial to fasten the tarp. Assess the surrounding roof structure to find stable and secure areas for anchoring the tarp. Remember to use a tape measure to determine the tarp size needed to cover your roof.
Unroll and lay the tarp over the damaged section, making sure to cover it well beyond the damaged area, as this overlap provides extra protection against wind and rain. Ideally, you need to position the tarp so that at least one edge aligns with the roof’s slope, facilitating water runoff. Double-check that the tarp is evenly spread out and lies flat, with no wrinkles or bunching that could allow water to collect.
Start by securing the tarp at the highest point to prevent water from seeping under it. Lay the 2×4 anchor board along the edge and fold the tarp over it. Using a hammer, nail through the tarp and into the board to secure it to the roof. Repeat this process with the other 2×4 boards along the remaining edges, especially the bottom, to firmly anchor the tarp. Make sure the tarp is pulled taut but not overstretched to avoid rips or tears.
For added security against strong winds, consider placing sandbags along the edges of the tarp to weigh it down. You can also reinforce the fastening by tying the tarp down with ropes looped around the boards or through grommets in the tarp. This lowers the risk of the tarp being lifted or displaced by the wind.
Once the tarp is in place, regularly inspect it for wear or damage, especially after storms. Replace or adjust the tarp as necessary to maintain its protective effectiveness. Keep an eye on the weather and repair or replace the tarp immediately if any issues arise.
If you think that a temporary roof tarp alone won’t be able to protect your residential or commercial building in Portland, there are several ways to improve its efficiency. Enhancing the effectiveness of a roof tarp can further protect your home from the elements and extend the temporary solution’s lifespan.
Examples of additional methods to improve your roof tarp installation include:
Several tarp materials can be used for temporary emergency roof repairs, each with characteristics and suitable applications. Knowing the various types can help you choose one that will meet your preferences. Here are some of the common tarp types:
A tarp on a roof is intended as a temporary solution and should ideally not be left in place for more than 90 days. While durable tarps can provide short-term protection, they are not designed for long-term exposure to the elements. Over time, prolonged exposure to sun, wind, and rain can degrade the material, leading to possible roof leaks and additional damage.
A tarp left for too long can contribute to mold and mildew growth underneath and deterioration of the roofing materials it covers. Therefore, it is important to monitor the condition of the tarp regularly and plan for permanent repairs with roofing professionals as soon as possible. A prompt roof repair or replacement by a professional ensures its integrity and prevents additional issues.
It is possible to tarp a roof without using nails, which can be beneficial to avoid damaging the roofing materials. Some of the well-known alternative methods to securing a roof tarp without nails are:
If your roofing system has extensive damage, consider Armadas Exterior LLC’s expertise in providing quality roofing solutions. We are a team of professional roofers in Portland with years of experience handling repairs, replacements, and maintenance. You will also benefit from our warranties, giving you peace of mind after servicing your roofing system.
Call us if you have questions about the various roofing services we provide. Don’t let storm damage or strong winds ruin your day because our roofing contractors are here to help!
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