Using Tarps In Everyday Applications

Tarps are a highly versatile product that can be used in many different applications around the home or business. Tarpaulins are used in everyday activities such as construction and storage as well as in special circumstances such as hurricane protection. The durable, waterproof fabric is ideal for protecting valuable items from the elements, such as rain and wind. Tarps however, are not all the same. There are many different fabric styles and knowing which is best for your application is important.

The three main fabric types for outdoor use are Poly, Canvas and Vinyl. The poly tarp is made using high density polyethylene and is not only the most common type of cover but also the most adaptive to various weather conditions. The poly material does not have any temperature limitations like that of vinyl or canvas. Although heavier is terms of ounces per square foot, vinyl and canvas tarps have limitations and should only be considered if you have experience with the fabric and know what applications they can and cannot be used for. Both the vinyl and canvas tarps cannot be used in temperatures less than 40 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent cracking of the material. Furthermore, canvas tarps are water resistant, not waterproof and do have a saturation point at which water will seep through the material. Water repellant coatings must be applied to the canvas material every couple of years to ensure maximum protection.


When shopping for tarps it is important to read all of the materials specifications and determine which cover will work best for your specific application. You want to make sure that the cover chosen will be suitable for your local climate and also be durable enough to withstand the potential obstacles encountered while being utilized.