How to Tarp a Roof

If you have a large hole in your roof, cover it with a ½-inch or thicker sheet of plywood. Use screws to secure it. This will prevent water from pooling in the hole after the tarp is in place.

Make sure your tarp is large enough to cover problem spots. You want at least 3 feet of excess on each side of the compromised area. You’ll also need a supply of 2-by-4s.

Next, on the peak side, attach the tarp to the 2-by-4 using cap nails. Remember: The 2-by-4 should be about 2 feet longer than the tarp width. Then fold the excess tarp under a few rotations for a tight, clean fit. Screw the 2-by-4 directly into the roof to secure it. Lay more 2-by-4s on either side of the tarp and attach those as well for a tight, well-secured water barrier.

On the other end of the eave, there'll be excess tarp hanging off the eaves, which you can trim if you like. However, you’ll want to have ample material to nail the tarp to another 2-by-4 and roll it up around the wood. Be sure to leave enough slack to attach this side to the house, just under the eave for a snug fit.

Return to the roof and line the edges of the tarp with 2-by-4s. Attach them with more screws to hold them in place, as well as to keep the tarp good and taut and less likely to tear.