Covering the roof is the short term goal.
How to use a tarp for a temporary roof fix.
Then fold the excess tarp under a few rotations for a tight clean fit.
Here are the steps to installing a temporary tarp to patch up your roof.
When tree branches fall and hit roofs they can sometimes puncture the roof deck and create roof leaks.
One of the fastest and least expensive ways you can make a temporary emergency roof repair is to cover the involved area with a plastic tarp.
But if your roof needs emergency repairs using a temporary tarp is your best bet.
Now let s get to the good stuff.
For temporary coverage our favorite is the ubiquitous blue tarp.
The 2 by 4 should be about 2 feet longer than the tarp width.
Screw the 2 by 4 directly into the roof to secure it.
After this step you ll want to sandwich the tarp between another 2x4 and temporarily secure the bottom 2x4 to the roof with a nail.
This step ensures the tarp stays taut and fully protective.
Remember never walk on the tarp as it can be easy to slip.
It s important to report the damage to your insurance company as soon as possible and take plenty of pictures.
These tarps are very tough and the grommet holes along the edge allow for tie downs to secure the tarp in place.
The trick is securing it in place.
Next on the peak side attach the tarp to the 2 by 4 using cap nails.
The board must be 2 feet longer than the tarp s width and it should sit against the roof to avoid the collection of rainwater snow or debris.
Roll the tarp s edges using 2x4 s to secure the wood and nail it to the tarp using 3 inch nails.
Danny lipford demonstrating how to secure a tarp to a storm damaged roof.
Secure the tarp to your roof.
Fix this board to your roof using a screw as a temporary anchor.
There are a variety of materials you can use.
Make sure you get one that is large enough to cover the entire affected area and one that is meant to be used outdoors.
Sandwich the tarp by nailing a second 2 x 4 board to the first.
In the aftermath of a hurricane tornado severe storm falling tree limbs or other cause of roof damage.
To make sure it doesn t blow away in a light breeze you can use your tools boxes of screws strapping etc on the undamaged side wrap one end of the tarp around the 1 3 furring strip making sure the furring strip extends past each end by 1.