A tarpaulin, commonly shortened to tarp, is a strong, flexible, and water-resistant material that is used to cover objects or areas. Tarps are most commonly made from materials like polyethylene or vinyl-coated polyester due to their strength and affordability.
Advantages
The main advantages of using a tarp include:
Low Cost and Durability
Tarps provide affordable protection from the elements for a range of projects. They are designed to withstand weathering and last for years with proper care.
Lightweight and Portable
Unlike rigid roofing materials, Tarpaulins roll up for easy storage and transport making them practical for temporary uses.
Water Resistant Barrier
A properly installed tarp creates an effective barrier to prevent water intrusion which is important for roof repairs or storage.
UV Resistance
Modern tarp materials like polyethylene are UV resistant to withstand sun exposure without degrading over time.
When is Tarpaulin Installation Needed?
There are several common situations where tarpaulin installation may be necessary:
Roof Repair
Tarps can provide temporary protection from the elements during roof repair projects. This allows work to continue safely even in wet weather. Heavy Duty Tarpaulin is installed until permanent repairs like re-shingling are finished.
Severe Weather Protection
Property owners employ tarps as a low-cost method to protect structures from storms. Tarps can shield roof areas prone to leaks or buffer the impact of wind/rain on open structures.
Construction Projects
It is common for tarps to be installed at building sites to shield materials, work areas, and unfinished structures from precipitation. This allows exterior work to progress smoothly regardless of weather.
Temporary Shelter
During emergencies like flooding, fires, or storms, tarps provide fast, lightweight shelter to displaced residents. Their portability also makes tarps practical for temporary housing or covered outdoor areas.
Storage
To prevent deterioration from sun/moisture exposure, tarps are used to cover boats, vehicles, pools, lumber piles, and other valuable outdoor items stored long-term.
Property Protection
Homeowners proactively install tarps before hurricanes or winter to safeguard vulnerable parts of the property. This mitigates damages from anticipated severe weather.
Preparing for Tarpaulin Installation
Proper preparation is key for successful tarpaulin installation. Contractors and homeowners alike should gather the necessary tools and materials and inspect the surface beforehand:
Tools and Materials:
Tarps in the appropriate size, style (flat or articulating), and material for the job. Ropes, cables, or metal chains for anchoring and tensioning the tarp. Wood boards to protect edges and create rigid support lines across the surface.
Surface Preparation:
Inspect for damage like missing shingles, rotted wood, or existing leaks to the roof/surface. Clean debris such as fallen branches, moss, and algae from the entire area to cover. Make any repairs to the surface first so the tarp forms a solid seal. For example, replacing a few shingles.
Installing Tarps on Flat Roof Surfaces
For a flat, level roof surface, tarps can be installed using the following steps:
Laying Out the Tarp
Determine where anchor points will be placed around the edges and at set internal intervals. Unfurl the tarp completely over the prepared surface, allowing 6-12 inches to hang over each side.
Securing the Edges
Lay wood strips or boards along the outer edges to protect the surface below. Route ropes under these wood strips and use ratchets to tighten the tarp edges down evenly.
Adding Interior Supports
Lay wood boards or strips across the horizontal width of the roof at 3-4 foot intervals. Secure the tarp fabric to these lines using rope or grommets embedded along the top edge of the tarp at set points.
Tensioning the Tarp
Begin at one corner and work clockwise, pulling each rope taut with ratchets but not over-tightening. Ensure the tarp lies flat and wrinkle-free across the entire surface.