Anybody who lives in Fort Worth where large storms or tornados are a regular threat needs to know a little about emergency repairs. It doesn’t take much for a heavy tree limb to snap and take out part of a roof, for instance. We here at Old Pro Roofing get many calls after a storm hits to come take a look at the damage and get a tarp on their roof to stop the leaking. So here’s how you can get a head start and protect your belongings.
What we do
Basically, what you want to do is cover the damage with a woven plastic tarp that is held in place with 1×3 wood strips. Here’s how we do it. First we roll one end at least twice around a long 1×3, then screw it to the undamaged side of the roof. The 1×3 “roll” should be against the roof so it won’t collect water and debris. The rest of the tarp goes over the ridge and down the other side of the roof several feet beyond the damage. Then we roll the opposite end of the tarp around another 1×3 and screw it to the roof sheathing, roll side down. Now it’s just a matter of using more 1x3s and screws to hold down the tarp’s sides. They don’t have to be rolled in the tarp. A “blue roof” isn’t pretty, but it will keep the weather out until we can repair the damage.
Better Yet – leave it to the pros
Having said that, this type of emergency repair is best left to someone who has the equipment and skill to do it safely. Roofs are treacherous, particularly when wet, and tarps are slippery even when dry. You don’t want to be wrestling with one in high winds, either. Better to submit a claim for property insurance than to have your family submit a claim for life insurance.
Trust Your Home To an Old Pro
When your house gets hit by a storm that damages your roof, call the guys that will be here long after the storm has passed – call Old Pro Roofing today for a free roofing inspection and get that whole in your roof covered!