Roof tarping is often a temporary solution to protect your home from leaks, storm damage, or during renovations. Here's a comprehensive look at what it costs to tarp a roof and related considerations.
1. Average Cost to Tarp a Roof
- Cost per square foot: $0.70–$2.80 (including labor and materials)
- Typical range for tarping a 1,500 sq. ft. roof:
- Standard professional tarping: $1,050–$3,000
- Emergency services: $1,500–$4,200
- Small DIY tarping: $150–$450
2. Key Cost Factors
Roof Size
| Tarp Size (sq. ft.) | Cost Range |
|--------------------------|------------------------|
| 35 | $25–$100 |
| 192 | $135–$540 |
| 1,200 | $840–$3,360 |
| 3,000 | $2,100–$8,400 |
Tarp Thickness
- Measured in mils (1/1,000 inch); thicker tarps cost more.
- Thicker tarps (10–25 mils) are durable for weather protection.
Roof Design
- Steeper or more complex roofs (e.g., dormers, chimneys) cost more due to increased labor and material trimming.
Labor Costs
- $45–$75/hour or $0.60–$2.20/sq. ft.
- Professionals ensure proper installation, reducing long-term costs.
Materials
- Tarp costs: $0.10–$0.30/sq. ft.
- Additional materials like nails, battens, or waterproof tape add to the price, especially in high-wind or rainy areas.
Scenario
- Emergency services after storms or sudden damage are more expensive: $1.00–$2.80/sq. ft.
3. Add-On Costs for Related Repairs
| Service | Cost Range |
|--------------------------|-----------------------|
| Tree removal | $200–$2,000 |
| Roof inspection | $240 (average) |
| Roof repairs | $400–$1,900 |
| Full roof replacement| $5,800–$13,000 |
4. DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
DIY Tarping
- Pros: Lower costs (small jobs: $150–$450).
- Cons: Risk of improper installation and safety hazards.
Hiring a Professional
- Pros: Expertise, safety, and proper protection.
- Cons: Higher costs, but avoids potential water damage costs.
5. How to Save Money on Roof Tarping
- Prepare materials: Buy your tarp and hardware before hiring a pro.
- Regular inspections: Spot issues early to avoid emergency tarping.
- Off-season repairs: Schedule tarping in winter for lower rates.
- Compare quotes: Get estimates from at least three roofing contractors.
Summing it up
Tarping a roof can range from a minor DIY fix at $150 to a large professional job costing $4,200+ for emergencies. Acting proactively and hiring experienced roofers can protect your home and minimize costs.
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