How to Tarp a Leaking Roof: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tarping a roof is not a permanent solution. But, if a storm is approaching, with the threat of moisture leaks, you can’t afford to leave anything to chance. Safeguarding your home and its contents is a top priority. One effective way to achieve this is by placing a tarp over a worn-down roof.

If you need to “fix” your roof fast, you’re in the right place. This article will cover how to tarp your roof and prevent extensive damage while waiting for professional roof repairs.

How to Tarp A Leaking Roof: Supplies and Equipment

Before we get started, here’s everything you’ll need to tarp your roof:

• Heavy-duty vinyl tarp: This is the best for durability and element resistance.
• A sturdy ladder: For easy roof access
• Roofing shovel: To remove loose debris to ensure a safe working environment
• Measuring tape: To measure things and ensure proportional balance
• Furring strips: Helps hold the tarp to the roof
• Hammer and nails: To attach the strips, tarp, and roof shingle
• Protective equipment: Gloves, a helmet, non-slip shoes, and a safety harness to protect yourself from injury

Note: These tools and materials are all you need to fix the most common roof leak types.

How to Tarp a Leaking Roof in 5 Steps

1. Identify the damage

Use the ladder to access the upper section of the roof. Before climbing, ensure the ladder is securely fixed on the ground to prevent slips or falls. Look for missing or damaged shingles. Pay attention to a sagging roofline, which may indicate underlying structural issues, and check for nails that have come loose from their original position, as these could also contribute to water intrusion and further damage if not addressed.

Besides identifying the damage source, it’ll also reveal the affected area’s characteristics, such as size, severity, and shape. These variables can all affect the tarp size, so take note of these measurements accurately.

Tip: If you cannot safely access your roof due to mobility issues, it’s always best to opt for a professional residential roofing inspection.

2. Find a tarp (or tarps) that fit

After you complete your assessment, the next step is to find an appropriately sized tarp to cover the entire dimension of the affected area. Choosing a tarp that covers the damaged area and extends 3-4 feet on all sides is a good idea. This additional space creates room for any anchors or securing methods you might use later to ensure the tarp stays in place, providing a more reliable barrier against further damage.

Tip: If you need to tarp the entire roof and want to avoid taking measurements manually, you can often find the measurements you need on your home’s blueprint or survey plan.

3. Clear debris

Before laying the tarp on the roof, clear off any debris in the area where it will be placed. This step ensures the tarp will lie flat, maximizing the effectiveness of the coverage it provides. When a tarp is too loose because of the material beneath it, it doesn’t provide proper protection and can make existing damage worse.

Taking the time to prepare the surface properly can significantly enhance the tarp’s ability to shield your roof from the elements and prevent further issues.

4. Position the tarp

Roll out your tarp and lay it over the affected area. If you’re tarping your whole roof, start by covering the highest ridge with the tarp and working your way downwards. Temporarily fasten the tarp with a heavy object to flatten and hold the tarp down until you get the positioning right.

Tip: Perfecting the positioning takes some time and potentially a few tries. Don’t nail the tarp!… yet.

If you’re tarping a small section of the roof, you’re in for an easier ride. Lie it out flat and ensure the edges and midsection are all smooth. Extend the tarp three to four feet beyond the damaged area and proceed to step 5.

5. Secure the tarp

To secure the tarp in place, use furring strips as anchors. For full-roof tarps, focus on two critical areas: along the roof’s slope and at two opposing sides of the tarp. For the slope, lay the furring strips parallel to the roof, spacing them evenly about a foot apart to prevent water pooling. Fasten the strips to the tarp using a hammer and nails.

To secure the tarp’s edges and minimize flapping:

• Position a furring strip along one side.
• Make sure it extends two inches beyond the roof’s edge.
• Nail the furring strips down and inspect for missed areas or spots that need additional protection.

Tarps Come in Handy

Tarping a roof is a relatively simple project that most homeowners can complete in an afternoon with the right tools and materials.

Remember, this method is only a temporary solution—it’s essentially a big band-aid. A tarp can provide immediate relief from leaks, but it can’t address underlying issues causing damage. When it comes to making a thorough repair, altering a roof’s structure, or dealing with severe water damage, it’s best to leave those tasks to professionals who specialize in roof repairs.

Roofing pros have the experience and knowledge to evaluate the damage properly, ensure repairs are done correctly, and provide solutions to safeguard your home against future issues.

Worried about the cost of a roof repair? Don’t worry, we are here to help! Contact the Trenton Roofing team today to schedule an appointment for your free estimate today.