Tarp Types | Tarp Buying Guide (2024)

FAQs

Tarp Types | Tarp Buying Guide? ›

The choice of material depends on your intended use and the conditions your tarp will face. For long-lasting outdoor use, consider investing in a high-quality material like polyester for heavy-duty protection from the elements.

The choice of material depends on your intended use and the conditions your tarp will face. For long-lasting outdoor use, consider investing in a high-quality material like polyester for heavy-duty protection from the elements.

The larger the number, the thicker the tarp. Typical light weight blue tarps found in most retail or hardware stores are about 6 mils. If you are planning a heavy duty use, such as covering a carport, consider a heavy duty tarp at 11 to 12 mils or a super heavy duty tarp at 23 mils.

Between polypropylene and polyethylene, polypropylene is considered to be more resistant to chemicals and organic solvents than polyethylene, so it might be a better bet for manufacturing facilities. Polypropylene is also less flexible, so consider your need for a stretchable fabric before deciding between the two.

Before purchasing a poly tarp, it's important to determine the size of the area you need to cover. Measure the length and width of the space, whether it's a vehicle, equipment, or an outdoor structure. By knowing the dimensions, you can select a tarp that will adequately protect and cover the entire area.

Vinyl tarps are more long-lasting than poly tarps. They are designed to endure rough conditions and last for extended periods. Poly tarps are inferior to vinyl tarps in terms of durability and water resistance. Poly tarps can be used for jobs when durability is secondary.

Vinyl tarps are poly tarps that have been coated, laminated, or tempered with vinyl. As they're designed for industrial use, they are strong and resist tearing. Expect these tarps to last several years in severe conditions like heat, heavy rain or snow, or cold temperatures.

The actual thickness of tarps is measured in mils (1 mil is 1/1,000 of an inch). The larger the number, the thicker the tarp. Lightweight tarps (often blue in color) are 5 to 6 mils. Heavy-duty tarps, on the other hand, can be 20 mils and thicker.

Dark blue, grey, or black tarp colors are the strongest and the heaviest. This is because they often are treated with UV coating. So it helps protect them from any sun damage. In addition, the dark tarps absorb heat better, allowing them to remain calm.

Medium-duty poly tarps are suitable for covering boats, machinery, caravans, or pools. They can also be used to cover roofs if they're secured well. Heavy-duty poly tarps are suitable for covering roofs in exposed conditions.

What are the disadvantages of polypropylene plastic? ›

Polypropylene disadvantages

Other recycling or re-conditioning methods must be considered, at a significantly higher cost. This low melting point also means that polypropylene is highly flammable and limited in its ability to withstand higher temperatures and it is also susceptible to UV degradation and oxidation.

Inexpensive modern tarpaulins are made from woven polyethylene; This material has become so commonly used for tarpaulins that people in some places refer to it colloquially as "poly tarp" or "polytarp".

Tarps made of polyethylene, for instance, can be used outdoors continuously for up to five years. The longevity of the tarp can be considerably shortened by continuous exposure to intense sunshine, harsh temperatures, strong winds, and other environmental variables.

Tarps made mostly of polyethylene are more durable, stronger, and have a more waterproof ability as compared to other types of material like canvas. Nylon ground covers and polyethylene mesh tarps are more lightweight and allow shade from the sun while still being breathable.

If you want a heavy-duty tarp that will give longer life, consider one with 10-12 mils. Vinyl Coated and Vinyl Laminated Tarps Usually range from 14 Mil all the way up to 40 Mil thick. This is the thickest tarp you can find in the market. Also, you can go for a lightweight one that measures 5-6 mils.

The simple answer is yes.

A smoke tarp (also sometimes called a nose tarp) is smaller and more square than a regular steel or lumber flatbed truck tarp, as it's designed to cover the top front of a load.

PVC tarpaulins are durable and designed to last up to 10 years. Whereas pe tarpaulin lasts about 1-2 years for a single use. If you hold both materials, you will find that PVC tarps are thicker and more robust. This is because PVC tarpaulins have a strong internal mesh fabric and are therefore more robust.