Preparing For A Natural Disaster.

Natural disasters have been occurring with more frequency and with more fury in recent years. The latest event in Japan on March 11, 2011 is a huge reminder that preparation is vital to survival. The complacent "This will not happen to me" attitude must stop as it is only a matter of time before we are faced with a similar situation. How will you handle a natural disaster? Are you prepared?

These are all questions we must ask ourselves. Witnessing the Tsunami and earthquake aftermath in Japan should be a true realization as to how small we really are when Mother Nature shows her capability for destruction. In a recent article by ABC news titled, "Are you prepared for a natural disaster", it has been shown that even after the japan devastation some U.S residents are still not prepared.

It is essential to have a disaster readiness kit as well as, a shared plan that includes a meeting place for all family members. Survival kits are easy to make and should include the basics such as batteries, food, flashlights, water, a radio, basic first aid and a tarp. All of these supplies should be stocked to provide at least 3 days’ worth. The survival kit should be lightweight and mobile. A backpack is a great way to store survival kit items. Tarps can be rolled up into a very small area along with the other essential survival items. A detailed description of how to assemble a disaster supply kit can be found on the FEMA website. Start preparing today for what can happen tomorrow. Natural disasters do not happen on our schedule and will oftentimes occur when you are least expecting it. Preparation can be the difference between life and death.

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12 x 20 Canopy Tarps & Covers

Poly Tarps are a product that continue to grow in popularity due to their high durability and low cost. There are many different sizes and colors available for sale but the 12 x 20 tarp has become the most sought after size by consumers. This is largely due to the recent influx in canopy sales through major retail stores such as Costco and Sam's Club.

Built for single car use, the 10x20 canopy frame has exploded onto the retail scene as major retail stores stock an ample supply for consumers. The main cover for the 10x20 frame is actually a 12x20 cover. This two foot difference between the cover and the frame is due to the high angle or rise in peak. The tarp covers have a lifespan of about two years before replacement is needed. Now that the retail stores have been selling these 10x20 shelter units for a few years, the need for replacement covers has grown exponentially.

The 12 x 20 tarps can be purchased in a traditional style with hemmed edges or in a valance style with a 6 inch overhang around the edge of the frame. There are many colors of 12x20 tarps readily available for purchase as manufacturers have been forced to increase stock levels.

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Types Of Tarps - The Right Tool For The Job

Shopping for outdoor protection can be a tedious job. There are so many different fabrics available that trying to differentiate between them can be confusing at time. Researching the best fabric type for specific applications is the best approach to securing a cover that is right for the job.

The different types of tarps can be categorized by fabric type and grade. Each type of material has both its negatives and positives. For example, Vinyl Tarps are durable and strong due to the heavy ounce material and thick laminated coating. However, vinyl tarps do not perform well in temperatures below 40 degrees. Freezing temperatures can cause vinyl to become brittle and inflexible.

Another example is canvas tarps. Canvas tarps are great for many applications and protect will due to the heavy-duty cotton filled fabric. However, Canvas tarps would not be the best choice if you live in extremely wet conditions. Although canvas tarps are water repellant, they are not water proof. Canvas tarps do have a saturation point and the water repellant coating must be re-applied every couple of years.

The best way to choose a type of tarp for your specific application is to do thorough research. Pay close attention to all the product specifications and ask questions if necessary. Every tarp serves a purpose and although there are some materials that are more adaptable than others, it is best find out which one the tarps will work the best.


Browse Our Tarp Selection (Here)

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Canopy Tarps - Protect Your Valuables

Canopy Tarps can be plastic sheeting used to protect roofing, hay bales and other assets or a full framed structure such as a carport or portable garage. The main purpose of both variates of canopy tarps is full outdoor protection from the elements. There are many objects, liquids and invisible rays outside that can cause irreversible damage to automobiles and most importantly, to our skin.

Canopy tarps act as a shield from the damaging elements of nature. The plastic membrane protects us from UV and our assets from things such as rain, hail, snow, dirt and sap. However, not all canopy tarps are built the same. It is important to look for high quality when shopping for protection products. Durability in both the framework and cover are important and there are some key factors to look out for while shopping.

Choose a canopy tarp cover that is made of heavy-duty polyethylene (HDPE). Most heavy-duty canopy tarp covers have specifications as far as thickness and weight. A standard heavy-duty tarp is 12 mils thick and weighs around 6 ounces per square yard. Canopy Tarp frames can be found in many different diameters. The size of the canopy frame will determine the diameter of the tubing needed. Smaller canopy tarps can have pipe diameters starting at 3/4" up to 1-3/8". Larger canopy tarp frames should be heavier to sustain the weight and elements. Structures larger than 20' x 20' should have a minimum frame diameter of 1-5/8" or larger.

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