How to Tarp my Roof in Vancouver 2024?

A properly secured roof tarp can shield your roof from further damage caused by rain, snow, or wind. It prevents existing issues, like missing shingles or holes, from turning into leaks and stops current leaks from worsening. Using a tarp to protect your roof is not only a smart way to safeguard your home, but it may also be required by your homeowners insurance. If you fail to prevent additional damage after a storm, your insurance company could deny coverage for it, even if they will cover the initial damage.

It’s recommended to hire a professional roofer to install the tarp. This is a quick task for roofers, and they have a vested interest in securing your roof, as it increases the likelihood that you’ll choose them for future repairs.

Avoid attempting to tarp your roof yourself. Standing on a roof without proper safety gear and training is risky, especially after a storm. Wet surfaces, loose shingles, or significant structural damage can lead to falls or, in extreme cases, roof collapse. If you prefer to take action, consider focusing on safe, non-urgent preparations for eventual roof replacement.

Although a professional should handle tarping, you might still want to ensure it’s done correctly for your peace of mind and to satisfy your insurance company. Below, we’ll guide you through the basic steps of tarping and answer common questions about the process.

Why Tarp Your Roof?

There are two main reasons for tarping your roof: to prevent further damage and to satisfy insurance requirements. A tarp can:

• Protect areas around the damage, potentially lowering repair costs.
• Safeguard interior elements like ceilings and drywall.
• Prevent mold from forming or worsening.
• Possibly be covered by your insurance.

Insurance companies often require you to mitigate damage after an incident. This means you’re responsible for preventing further harm before repairs are made. Failing to do so might lead to your claim being denied. Fortunately, since insurers typically require tarping, they will often cover the cost of having it professionally installed.

When Should You Tarp Your Roof?

Roof tarping should be done as soon when you notice any damage, such as:

• Damp spots or discoloration on your ceiling, which could signal more significant issues.
• Damage from windstorms, like missing or curled shingles.
• Hail damage, which can leave noticeable dents in your roof.

These are all signs your roof needs protection until a roofing specialist can complete the repairs.

How to Tarp a Roof?

Assessing the Damage

The first step in handling a roofing emergency is to assess the damage. A roofing company will safely inspect the roof to identify any signs of damage and clear away debris, such as branches or leaves.

Before climbing onto the roof, it’s important to check the weather forecast. If severe weather, like a hailstorm, is still ongoing, no one, not even professionals, should go on the roof. See more...