Chloe Zhang
Covering your roof with plastic sheeting or tarps is a temporary solution to protect your home from damage caused by leaks, high winds, hail, and rain. It is a common practice during hurricane and tornado seasons to prevent roof leaks that can spread and affect the entire structure. When choosing a plastic sheet, it is recommended to use opaque, 6-10 mil string-reinforced polyethylene, as it reduces condensation compared to clear sheeting. The plastic sheeting should be big enough to cover the damaged area and ideally, the entire length of the roof. It should also be UV-resistant and thick enough to provide better protection and durability. Proper safety measures should be followed during installation, such as assessing the damage from a ladder and securing the tarp with screws or nails to ensure it doesn't come loose in windy conditions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of plastic | Opaque, 6-10 mil string reinforced polyethylene |
| Colour | White or black |
| Thickness | The thicker the better, with mil thicknesses providing premium protection |
| UV resistance | Yes |
| Fire retardant | Yes |
| Installation method | Screws, nails, or heat-welded |
| Temporary or permanent | Temporary |
| Purpose | To protect the house or building structure from further damage until repairs can be made |
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What You'll Learn
Choose the right plastic sheeting
When choosing plastic sheeting to cover a roof, there are several factors to consider to ensure that the sheeting is fit for purpose and will provide adequate protection. Firstly, it is important to assess the extent of the damage and the size of the area that needs to be covered. The plastic sheeting should be large enough to cover the damaged area, and ideally, it should cover the entire length of the roof. This will ensure comprehensive protection from the elements and prevent further damage.
The type of plastic sheeting is also a critical consideration. Opaque or white plastic sheeting is recommended as it reduces condensation compared to clear sheeting. White sheeting will also reflect sunlight, keeping the underlying structure cooler. Conversely, black sheeting will absorb heat, which may not be ideal in certain climates. Additionally, look for plastic sheeting that is UV resistant to prevent premature deterioration and ensure longevity.
The thickness of the plastic sheeting is another important factor. Thicker sheeting generally offers better protection and durability. Consider string-reinforced plastic sheeting, which provides enhanced rip resistance in high-wind areas and acts as an effective wind, vapour, and weather barrier. For example, Dura Skrim offers string-reinforced plastic sheeting in 6 mil and 20 mil thicknesses, providing tear resistance, weatherproofing, and vapour barrier properties.
If fire safety is a concern, fire-retardant plastic sheeting is available and recommended for short-term use. Black fire-retardant sheeting offers temporary UV resistance in a lightweight film, providing peace of mind. Ensure that the plastic sheeting is securely fastened to the roof using appropriate screws or nails, following manufacturer instructions and local building regulations.
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Measure the roof
Covering a roof with plastic sheeting is a great temporary solution to protect your home from damage. It is important to correctly measure the roof to ensure that the plastic sheeting is the right size and that it can be properly secured.
Firstly, assess the damage from the safety of a ladder. Do not step directly onto the roof. Use a broom to carefully clean any debris, such as branches and leaves, from the roof to give yourself a clear view. For safety and support, ask a friend to help you with this process.
Next, use a measuring tool to calculate the surface area of the damage. Make a note of these measurements, as you will need them when purchasing your plastic sheeting. The plastic sheeting should be big enough to cover the damaged area, but it is best if it covers the entire length of the roof. It should also be UV-resistant to prevent premature deterioration.
When selecting your plastic sheeting, consider using opaque, 6-10 mil string-reinforced polyethylene. Opaque plastic will reduce condensation when compared to clear sheeting. Remember that opaque can refer to white plastic, which will reflect the sun, rather than black plastic, which will absorb heat. Alternatively, black fire-retardant plastic sheeting is a good option for short-term use if fire safety is a concern.
Finally, when you have your plastic sheeting, it is important to properly secure it to the roof. The sheeting must be weighed down so that it won't come loose in windy or stormy conditions. You can create an anchor board by rolling a 2 x 4-inch board into the peak end of the tarp and nailing the tarp to the board. The board must be 2 feet longer than the width of the tarp and sit against the roof to avoid collecting rainwater, snow, or debris. Screw the board to the roof as a temporary anchor using nails or screws long enough to go through the tarp, board, shingles, and decking.
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Prepare the roof
Preparing your roof for a plastic covering is a crucial step in ensuring the effectiveness and longevity of the tarp. Here are the detailed steps to prepare your roof:
Inspect the Roof:
Climb up to your roof, being cautious of your safety, especially if the roof is steep or slippery. Use a ladder and consider having a helper for support. Assess the extent of the damage and locate the source of any leaks. Take note of any debris, branches, or leaves that need to be removed. A thorough inspection will help you understand the scope of the issue and the necessary repairs.
Clean the Roof:
Carefully clean and clear the roof of any debris, leaves, branches, and rubble. Use a broom to sweep away the debris, ensuring you have a clear and unobstructed view of the entire roof. This step is important as it provides a clean surface to work on and helps identify any hidden issues or damage.
Measure the Roof:
Accurately measure the surface area of the damaged section of the roof. Use appropriate measuring tools to calculate the length and width of the area that requires the plastic covering. Make sure to add an extra four feet of overhang from the roof's peak when determining the size of the tarp you'll need. This overhang will ensure proper coverage and protection.
Choose the Right Plastic Sheeting:
Select a plastic sheeting that is large enough to cover the entire length of the roof or at least the measured damaged area with the recommended overhang. It is recommended to use opaque, 6-10 mil string-reinforced polyethylene. Opaque sheeting can be white, which reflects sunlight and reduces condensation compared to clear sheeting. Thicker plastic sheeting, such as heavy-duty options, will provide better protection and durability. Ensure the plastic sheeting is UV resistant to prevent premature deterioration.
Gather Necessary Tools and Materials:
Before proceeding, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials, including the chosen plastic sheeting, screws or nails, a screw gun, measuring tools, and any safety equipment. You may also need additional items like an impact or cordless drill, poly zip fasteners, anti-noise tape, and boards for securing the tarp, depending on your specific project. Having everything ready beforehand will make the installation process smoother.
Prepare the Work Area:
Ensure you have a clear and safe work area, both on the roof and the ground below. If you have a helper, brief them on the process and safety precautions. Check the weather forecast and choose a mild day for the project. Avoid working on the roof if it is windy, rainy, or stormy, as this can affect the installation process and your safety.
By following these preparatory steps, you will be well-equipped to cover your roof with plastic sheeting effectively and securely. Remember to take the necessary safety precautions and adapt the steps to your specific roof and project requirements.
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Secure the plastic
To secure the plastic roof covering, you can use several methods, depending on the type of plastic you've chosen and the pitch of your roof.
For a more secure and longer-lasting fix, you can create an anchor board by rolling a 2 x 4-inch board into the peak end of the plastic. The board should be 2 feet longer than the width of the plastic and sit against the roof to avoid collecting rainwater, snow, or debris. You can then screw the board to the roof as a temporary anchor using nails or screws long enough to go through the plastic, board, shingles, and decking. To ensure the plastic stays taut, you can sandwich it by nailing or screwing a second board over the first. Repeat this process for the remaining peak ends of the plastic. This method is ideal for steeper roofs as it provides a more secure anchor.
For a corrugated plastic roof, you can use screws with a rubber seal to fasten the plastic to the roof. It is important to overlap the sheets and screw them into the high part of the corrugations to prevent water from pooling where the screws are. An impact or cordless drill will be needed for this process.
Another method to secure the plastic is to use an appropriate tape, such as anti-noise tape, to seal the edges of the plastic. This method is ideal for temporary coverings and can be used in conjunction with the above methods for added security.
Remember to take the necessary safety precautions when working on your roof, such as having a spotter for support and avoiding stepping directly onto a steep or slippery roof.
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Safety considerations
Covering a roof with plastic sheeting is a temporary solution to protect your house or building structure from further damage until you can repair it. Here are some safety considerations to keep in mind:
Choose the Right Type of Plastic Sheeting
Not all plastic sheeting is created equal. It's recommended to use opaque, 6-10 mil string-reinforced polyethylene. The opaque feature reduces condensation compared to clear sheeting. It's important to note that opaque can refer to white plastic, which reflects the sun, while black plastic absorbs heat. If fire safety is a concern, you can also find fire-retardant plastic sheeting that offers temporary UV resistance.
Consider the Thickness and Reinforcements
The thicker the plastic sheeting, the better the protection. Look for string-reinforced plastic sheeting, which provides better rip resistance in high-wind areas and acts as a wind and vapour barrier. Heat shrink wrap film is another option that conforms to the shape of the roof and works well with all roof types.
Size and Coverage
Ensure the plastic sheeting is at least big enough to cover the damaged area. Ideally, it should cover the entire length of the roof. This will help protect the structure from further damage and give you time to make proper repairs.
UV Resistance
Choose plastic sheeting that is UV resistant to prevent premature deterioration. Polycarbonate plastic roof sheets, for example, are known for their excellent UV-blocking capabilities, making them ideal for awnings, greenhouses, and sunroom roofing.
Maintenance and Cleaning
If you're using polycarbonate plastic roof sheets, be aware that they can be scratched. To prevent this, routinely clean the panels with warm water, a mild detergent, and a microfiber cloth to remove dirt and grit.
Remember, covering your roof with plastic sheeting is a temporary solution. It's important to assess the damage, locate the source of any leaks, and make proper repairs as soon as possible.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to use opaque, 6-10 mil string-reinforced polyethylene. Opaque plastic will reduce condensation compared to clear sheeting. White plastic will reflect the sun, while black plastic will absorb heat.
You should measure the damaged area of your roof and buy a heavy-duty tarp that is at least big enough to cover it. It is best if the plastic sheeting covers the entire length of the roof.
You can use screws or nails to secure the plastic sheeting to your roof. If using screws, make sure they are long enough to go through the tarp, board, shingles, and into the roof decking. You can also create an anchor board by rolling a 2 x 4-inch board into the peak end of the tarp and nailing it in place.
Covering your roof with plastic sheeting can protect your home from water damage caused by leaks. It can also provide temporary protection during hurricane and tornado seasons, when roofs are more susceptible to damage.
Plastic sheeting is not a permanent solution and may need to be replaced with shingles after use. It can also be difficult to assess the damage and locate the source of a leak, which is necessary for a long-term fix. Additionally, you should check local building regulations before covering your roof with plastic sheeting to avoid any potential issues with neighbours or authorities.
