5 Common Mistakes Homeowners Make When Using a Roof Tarp

Avoid These Costly Errors to Protect Your Home Effectively

When disaster strikes in the form of storms or roof leaks, a roof tarp often becomes the first line of defense for homeowners. Roof tarps offer temporary protection against rain, debris, and further structural damage, but installing them incorrectly can lead to more problems than they solve. Understanding the most common mistakes homeowners make when using a roof tarp can help you avoid unnecessary repairs and expenses.

In this post, we'll go over the five most common errors made during roof tarping, offering practical advice to keep your home safe and secure until permanent repairs are completed.

1. Using the Wrong Type of Roof Tarp

Not all roof tarps are created equal. A major mistake homeowners make is assuming any tarp will do. Tarps vary in material strength, size, and durability, so choosing the wrong one could result in the tarp failing at the worst possible time.

• Durability Matters: Opt for heavy-duty tarps made from materials like polyethylene (PE), which are designed to resist tearing, UV damage, and water penetration. Avoid lightweight tarps, which are more likely to rip or degrade under harsh weather conditions.

• Size Considerations: Always get a tarp that is large enough to cover not only the damaged area but also extends past it by several feet. This extra coverage is crucial for proper attachment and protection.

• Weather Resistance: If you live in an area prone to high winds or storms, it’s vital to choose a reinforced, waterproof tarp. Standard blue tarps are often not suitable for prolonged outdoor use, especially in extreme weather.

By investing in the right type of roof tarp from the beginning, you can avoid future complications such as water damage or further structural issues.

2. Improperly Securing the Tarp

Even the most durable tarp won’t be effective if it’s not securely attached. One of the most common mistakes is using too few or inappropriate fasteners, leaving the tarp loose and susceptible to wind and rain.

• Use Enough Fasteners: Many homeowners underestimate how many fasteners are needed to hold a tarp securely in place. Ensure that you are using roofing nails, screws, or sandbags in multiple locations to prevent flapping.

• Avoid Damage to Shingles: If you're using nails or screws, make sure they are placed in the correct locations to avoid further damage to your shingles. Fastening the tarp to undamaged areas is crucial to keeping the rest of your roof intact.

• Rope or Bungee Cords for Added Security: For areas with high wind potential, use bungee cords or ropes to further secure the edges of the tarp. However, avoid over-tightening the tarp, which could cause strain and lead to ripping.

If the tarp isn’t securely fastened, it can easily blow away or tear during storms, leaving your roof vulnerable to water infiltration.

3. Waiting Too Long to Install the Tarp

Delaying the installation of a roof tarp after damage has occurred is another mistake homeowners make. Time is of the essence when protecting your home from further water or storm damage.

• Water Damage Escalation: Every moment that your damaged roof is exposed to rain or the elements, the risk of water seeping into your home increases. Water damage can quickly lead to mold, mildew, and wood rot—issues that can multiply the cost of repairs.

• Expensive Repairs: Waiting too long to install a tarp not only risks further structural damage but can also increase the cost of labor if repairs become more complex.

If you cannot install a roof tarp immediately, consider hiring a professional to do so as soon as possible. Acting quickly ensures that you prevent additional damage that may not be covered by insurance if the delay is seen as negligence.

4. Not Checking for Proper Drainage

Improper drainage is one of the most overlooked issues when installing a roof tarp. If water collects and pools on top of the tarp, it could cause additional damage or even collapse.

• Slope and Angle: Ensure that the tarp is installed at an angle to allow water to drain off naturally. A flat tarp or one without a slope will lead to water pooling, increasing the pressure on the damaged roof area and the tarp itself.

• Use Props If Necessary: In cases where the roof structure doesn’t allow for natural drainage, consider using objects like wooden planks or roof battens to create an artificial slope under the tarp. This will help direct water away from the tarp and off the roof.

• Regular Inspections: After the tarp is installed, it’s important to inspect it periodically to make sure there is no water buildup. Check after heavy rains or storms to ensure everything is functioning as expected.

Failing to manage water runoff can lead to leaks or additional roof damage, negating the benefits of the tarp installation.

5. Relying on the Tarp for Too Long

Roof tarps are a temporary solution, and one of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is relying on them for too long. While tarps can offer short-term protection, they are not designed to last indefinitely.

• Deterioration Over Time: Prolonged exposure to the sun, wind, and rain can cause even the most durable tarp to degrade. UV exposure weakens the tarp material, leading to cracks and holes that allow water to penetrate.

• Potential for More Damage: If left on for months, a roof tarp can trap moisture against your roof, potentially causing mold or rot in the roofing materials underneath.

• Plan for Permanent Repairs: Schedule permanent roof repairs as soon as possible. Relying on the tarp for too long can end up costing you more in the long run, as the temporary fix might not be enough to prevent further damage.

It’s important to view the roof tarp as a temporary measure to hold you over until professional repairs can be completed. Contact a roofing specialist as soon as possible to schedule a long-term fix.

Conclusion

While a roof tarp can be an effective temporary solution to protect your home after roof damage, avoiding these common mistakes is key to ensuring that the tarp serves its purpose. By choosing the right type of tarp, securing it properly, acting quickly, managing water runoff, and planning for permanent repairs, you can safeguard your home from further damage.

Whether you're dealing with storm damage or a small leak, taking the time to install your roof tarp correctly can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.

Need Help with Roof Tarp Installation? Contact a Roofing Contractor in Owasso, OK!

If you're unsure about installing a roof tarp or need a professional solution, don’t risk further damage to your home. Reach out to a trusted roofing contractor in Owasso, OK, for expert assistance and reliable, long-lasting repairs.