Homes and other buildings can sustain considerable damage from storms, hurricanes, and earthquakes. One of the most crucial things to do after a storm is to tarp the roof, even though there are numerous steps homeowners may do to lessen the damage brought on by these catastrophes. In this post, we’ll examine the risks that go unnoticed when you don’t tarp your house after a storm and explain why doing so is essential to protecting your house.
What is Tarping, and Why is it Important?
Tarping is the process of using a big piece of plastic or tarp to cover a damaged area. In the meanwhile, it can help stop further harm to your house until more substantial repairs can be completed. Tarping is crucial because it protects your property from the weather while keeping water, trash, and pests out. Also, it helps in averting future damage, which can ultimately save you time and money.
Preventing Water Damage
After a storm, tarping your home is essential because it can help stop water damage. A leaky roof can cause water damage to the walls, ceilings, and flooring of your house. Mold development brought on by these water leaks may affect the health of your family and pets.
Protecting Your Property
It can also damage your property if you don’t cover your home after a storm. Furniture, electronics, & other priceless possessions in your house can be ruined by water leaks. Strong winds can also cause debris to blow about, harming your home’s windows, doors, and other components.
The Hidden Dangers of Not Tarping Your Home After a Storm
A few homeowners still need to pay greater attention to this vital step, even though many are aware of how important it is to tarp their homes after a storm. During a storm, not tarping your home might lead to the following hidden risks:
· Further Damage to Your Roof
The damage to your roofing materials can get worse if you don’t tarp your roof after a storm. The damage will be worse the next time it rains or storms, and your house will be more susceptible to water leaks.
· Increased Risk of Mold Growth
Mold development is also more likely if your house isn’t tarped after a storm. Mold thrives in damp, humid environments, which might be produced in your house if there is a water leak. Mold may harm the structural integrity of your house and pose health risks to your family, pets, & guests.
· Higher Energy Bills
If your home is not tarped after a storm, it can lead to higher energy bills. Water leaks can cause the insulation to become damp and less effective, leading to heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. This can cause your energy bills to increase, as you’re heating and cooling systems will have to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature.
· Safety Hazards
Not tarping your home after a storm can also create safety hazards. A damaged roof can collapse, posing a danger to anyone in or around your home. In addition, water leaks can create slippery floors, which can cause slips and falls.
· Increased Repair Costs
The damage can worsen if you don’t tarp your home after a storm. This means that when you finally make repairs, the costs will be much higher than if you had initially tarped your house. By tarping your home, you can prevent further damage from occurring and keep repair costs to a minimum.
How to Tarp Your Home
Tarping your home after a storm can help prevent further damage and protect your property. Here are the steps to tarp your home:
- Assess the damage to your home. Look for any holes or leaks in the roof or walls, broken windows or doors, and other areas that need to be covered.
- Measure the area that requires to be covered. Use a measuring tape to determine the length and width of the damaged area. Add a few extra feet to the measurements to ensure the tarp protects the area comprehensively.
- Purchase a tarp that is large enough to cover the damaged area. Ensure the tarp is made of heavy-duty, waterproof material and has grommets around the edges for easy tie-down.
- Secure the tarp to your roof using nails or screws. Start at the highest point of the damaged area and work your way down. Place the tarp over the damaged area and secure it to the roof using nails or screws. Be sure to place them in the grommets to avoid tearing the tarp.
- Use rope or bungee cords to secure the tarp to the ground. Tie the rope or bungee cords to the grommets on the tarp and attach them to sturdy objects on the basis. This will prevent the tarp from flapping in the wind and causing further damage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, not tarping your home after a storm can lead to significant problems. The dangers of not tarping your home are accurate, from water damage to pest infestations. Tarping your home is a temporary solution that can help prevent further damage and save you money in the long run. If you’re uncomfortably tarping your home, consider hiring a professional to do it for you.