When disaster strikes and buildings are damaged, quick and effective protection is crucial. At Stormwrappers, we understand the importance of rapid response and superior protection. This article compares the installation times and overall effectiveness of shrink wrap versus traditional blue tarps, demonstrating why shrink wrap is the superior choice for building protection.
The Blue Tarp Approach
Blue tarps have long been a go-to solution for emergency roof coverage. While they offer a quick temporary solution, they come with several drawbacks that limit their effectiveness in the long term.
Installation Process and Time
The installation process for blue tarps typically involves measuring and cutting the tarp to size, securing it using nails, screws, or sandbags, and ensuring coverage of damaged areas. The average installation time can vary widely depending on the size of the area and the complexity of the roof structure, typically ranging from 1-3 hours for a standard residential roof.
Limitations of Blue Tarps
Despite their widespread use, blue tarps have significant limitations. They are prone to tearing in high winds, have a limited lifespan of typically 30-90 days, and often lead to water pooling and leaks. Additionally, they require frequent adjustments and replacements, which can be time-consuming and costly in the long run.
The Shrink Wrap Solution
Shrink wrap offers a superior alternative to blue tarps, providing better protection and longevity. The installation process, while more involved, results in a more effective and durable solution.
Installation Process and Time
The shrink wrap installation process involves assessing the damaged area and preparing the surface, applying shrink wrap material using specialized equipment, heat-shrinking the material for a tight, custom fit, and sealing edges to create proper drainage channels. While this process involves more steps and specialized equipment, professional teams like Stormwrappers can complete installations quickly and efficiently. On average, a residential roof can be fully shrink-wrapped in 3-5 hours, depending on size and complexity.
Advantages of Shrink Wrap
Shrink wrap offers numerous advantages over blue tarps. It provides superior wind resistance (up to 85 mph), has a longer lifespan (6-12 months or more), and its custom-fit eliminates water pooling and leaks. Furthermore, shrink wrap is UV-resistant to prevent degradation and reduces noise from wind and rain, providing a more comprehensive protection solution.
Comparing Installation Times and Long-Term Benefits
While the initial installation time for shrink wrap may be slightly longer than that of blue tarps, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits. Blue tarps require frequent adjustments and replacements, leading to a cumulative time spent of 10-20 hours over 6 months. In contrast, shrink wrap installations typically require minimal to no maintenance, resulting in a cumulative time of only 3-5 hours over the same period.
Cost Comparison
When comparing costs, it’s crucial to look beyond the initial installation. While blue tarps have a lower upfront cost, frequent replacements increase long-term expenses. Additionally, there’s a potential for secondary damage due to inadequate protection. Shrink wrap, on the other hand, requires a higher initial investment but has minimal ongoing costs. The reduced risk of secondary damage can lead to significant savings in the long run.
Environmental Considerations
As a responsible company, Stormwrappers also considers the environmental impact of protective solutions. Blue tarps often end up in landfills after short-term use and are not easily recyclable due to mixed materials. In contrast, shrink wrap can be removed and recycled after use, and its longer lifespan means less waste overall.
Case Studies
To illustrate the effectiveness of shrink wrap, let’s look at two real-world examples:
Residential Project
A homeowner in Florida suffered roof damage during a hurricane. Initially covered with a blue tarp, the roof continued to leak, causing interior damage. Stormwrappers installed shrink wrap protection, which lasted for 8 months without any issues, allowing ample time for proper repairs.
Commercial Project
A large warehouse in Texas experienced extensive roof damage from a severe storm. The shrink wrap solution was installed in just 12 hours, protecting millions of dollars worth of inventory. The coverage lasted for over a year, withstanding multiple storms without any breaches.
Conclusion
While blue tarps may seem like a quick fix, the superior protection and long-term benefits of shrink wrap make it the clear choice for building protection. At Stormwrappers, we pride ourselves on quick, efficient installations that provide lasting protection. Our specialized equipment and trained professionals ensure that even though the process is more involved than simply throwing a tarp over a roof, the installation is completed rapidly and effectively.
In nearly every aspect – from durability and effectiveness to long-term cost savings and environmental impact – shrink wrap outperforms blue tarps. When disaster strikes, don’t settle for a temporary fix. Choose the solution that offers superior protection and peace of mind: choose Stormwrappers.