Applying Tarps After a Hurricane

Sales for tarps increase in warmer weather. Higher temperatures in certain parts of the country often indicate that hurricanes are about to come, and tarps are a supply that everyone needs for hurricane preparedness. While the material won't be of assistance when the storm hits, the tarp is necessary in the aftermath. Roof damage is a common result of a storm, as are broken windows and lights, and the polyethylene material keeps out water and prevents mildew and mold damage from occurring inside the home.

Preparation for a storm means having all supplies beforehand. Concerning tarps, a few should be bought before the hurricane arrives, and nails, boards, and hammers should also be available in your home. Once a storm warning goes out, you'll be prepared by having all supplies needed to repair any damage. In case any damage to your roof has occurred, examine it from inside once the storm is over. If repairs are needed - and many homes even need minor ones - add a tarp over any cracked or dented part of the roof.

Although application methods vary, you should apply the tarps so that they both cover the damage and are secured to the surface. A common method for doing this is rolling one end of a blue tarp in a two-by-four board and nailing it to one side of the peak. Stretch the material over the peak and over the damaged area, and roll the other side of the tarp in another two-by-four board and secure it. The other two remaining sides should be nailed down with boards on top. This should be done for all areas of your roof that experienced damage from the storm.

Although using tarps as temporary repair for your roof is recommended, proper repairs should be sought out in the long-term. As contractors can take time repairing all damaged roofs after a hurricane, contacting one as soon as you've attached your tarps is recommended.