Tar paper is a type of waterproofing material used in roofing applications. It is made from a heavy-duty, durable paper that is saturated with bitumen, a sticky, black, and viscous material. This process transforms the paper into a water-resistant and weatherproof material. Tar paper is typically available in rolls, making it easy to handle and install.
Characteristics of Tar Paper:
Understanding the characteristics of tar paper is crucial to evaluating its suitability as a temporary roof.
- Water Resistance: Tar paper is designed to provide a waterproof barrier, preventing water from seeping through and damaging the building’s interior.
- Durability: Thanks to its bitumen saturation, tar paper is rugged and durable, making it suitable for short-term roofing applications.
- Flexibility: Tar paper is flexible, allowing it to conform to various roof shapes and contours. This characteristic ensures better coverage and protection against leaks.
Benefits of Using Tar Paper as a Temporary Roof:
- Cost-effective Solution: Tar paper is considerably cheaper compared to permanent roofing materials like shingles or metal sheets. As a temporary measure, this cost-effective option can save a significant amount of money while ensuring short-term protection.
- Easy Installation: Tar paper is lightweight and easy to handle. Its availability in rolls simplifies the installation process, making it a viable option in emergencies or urgent situations.
- Quick Installation: The simplicity of installing tar paper can reduce the time required for temporary roof setup. This is especially advantageous when dealing with immediate threats such as storms or heavy rainfall.
Limitations of Using Tar Paper as a Temporary Roof:
While tar paper offers various advantages, it also has limitations that should be taken into consideration.
- Limited Lifespan: Tar paper is not designed for long-term use. With exposure to the elements, it can degrade over time, leading to a diminished ability to resist water and withstand harsh weather conditions.
- Temporary Solution: Tar paper should be considered a temporary fix rather than a permanent replacement for roofing materials. Its main purpose is to provide immediate protection until a proper repair or roof replacement can take place.
- Weather Conditions: While tar paper is weatherproof, it may not be as sturdy as more permanent roofing materials. Extreme weather events like hailstorms or high winds can potentially damage or dislodge the tar paper, exposing the roof to further harm.
Tar paper can serve as a temporary roof when a permanent solution is not immediately available. With its water resistance, durability, and ease of installation, it provides a cost-effective and quick way to protect a building’s interior from weather elements. However, it is important to acknowledge the limitations of tar paper, such as its limited lifespan and susceptibility to damage under certain weather conditions. As such, it is essential to use tar paper only as a temporary measure until a proper roof repair or replacement can be implemented.