This tip is for the homebuilder who has either run out of time, money or both and needs to get a roof covered before the next rain. I’ve tried it and it works on roofs with a minimum 4/12 pitch in any weather condition short of a gale.
After whatever sheathing you are using is in place, cover it with 30-lb. felt using any appropriate lap, and then staple string 1/2 in. above the lap line. Use kite string, mason’s line, fishing line, or some other small-diameter string with at least 15-lb. test. The staples should be at least 1/2 in. long (5/8 in. is even better) and place them 10 in. on center for effective holding. Be careful to staple every exposed edge, vertical or horizontal, or a good wind will pick off the felt. The string can be left in place when the finished roof is installed.
Craig Savage, Hope, ID
Edited and Illustrated by Charles Miller
From Fine Homebuilding #3
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