How to Tarp a Roof

Tarping a roof protects your home's interior from being exposed to the elements because of a damaged skylight or roof. A roof tarp also protects your roof from further damage. A tarped roof provides 90-day protection from the rain. Tarping your roof means your home is protected so you can make permanent repairs later on.

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   Find the point of damage on the roof. Use a ladder to reach your roof. If your roof is too steep to stand on, examine it from the ladder instead. Look for damaged roof tiles and scattered debris. Examine the entire roof carefully. There may be more than one section where your roof is damaged.

   • Alternatively, go to your attic and examine the roof. Large water stains on the wood of the roof are tell-tale signs of damage.
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   Measure the size of the damage. Carefully get onto your roof if you can. Kneel down by the damage and unroll a tape measure. Measure the precise dimensions of the damage. Remember to measure all points of damage.

   • If you don't know the dimensions of your roof, now is a good time to note them down for later.
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   Take lots of pictures of the damage. With your phone or a camera, take as many pictures as you can of the damage. By having evidence of the damage you should have an easier time working with your home insurance if you have it. Having pictures of the damage also means you know how large a tarp you need in the hardware store.
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   Purchase a suitable tarp. Most hardware stores will sell a variety of tarp sizes. Generally, it's better to make sure the tarp is bigger than what you need than smaller. Most tarps cover the majority of a roof, but to be safe, measure the size of the damage and make sure your purchased tarp will cover the damaged area.^[1]

   • If you have any uncertainty, ask an employee for help.
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   Ensure you have all the proper safety equipment. Repairing a roof can be dangerous. If you're certain you want to repair the roof instead of a professional you need to have all the appropriate equipment. A sturdy pair of boots, thick gloves, a firm ladder, protective glasses, a helmet, and a high visibility vest are all essentials.