Some Popular Uses for Tarps around the Home

When it comes to protecting things from exposure to the weather, nothing is more valuable than the right tarp. Tarps actually have a number of uses around the home, and can be ideal for everything from creating shade to helping make yard work go smoother.

Providing Protection

Tarps can come in handy for providing protection from the elements, and here are just a few items they could be used on:

• Barbecue grills
• Boats
• Bicycles and motorcycles
• Firewood
• On top of a pet kennel
• Lawn equipment

Keep an over-sized tarp handy whenever you’re performing yard work, and the cleanup process will go much smoother. For example, when you are cleaning out gutters, throw the debris down onto a tarp, and it will be much simpler to dispose of later. Tarps can also be used to haul leaves, tree limbs and other yard waste to a disposal site, and can typically hold more material than a wheelbarrow or wagon might.

You’ll want to have a tarp available whenever you go camping, as there are multiple uses for one in this situation. Hang one from a tree in order to provide shade while you are eating. Place one in front of your tent’s opening for additional privacy while you are dressing. If you’re sleeping under the stars, laying a tarp on the ground can provide some protection from moisture and insects that you wouldn't otherwise be able to enjoy.

When moving, tarps can be used to wrap furniture or place around boxes full of breakable items in order to provide additional protection for them. They can be especially helpful when hauling items in the back of an open pickup truck, as they can safeguard items against the elements as well.

You can also use tarps as drop cloths when painting, or cover a child’s sandbox with them. In fact, there are so many different uses for tarps that we’re sure you’ll never run out of possibilities. Here at Canopies and Tarps, we have one of the widest selections available anywhere, so contact us to find the one that is exactly right for you.

Shop Tarps: http://www.canopiesandtarps.com/tarps.html

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Helpful Tips for Preserving Firewood with Tarpaulins and Racks

Now that cooler temperatures are starting to make an appearance, many people’s thoughts will be turning towards firewood preservation. After all, you can’t get a roaring, pleasant fire going with wet, green wood. One excellent way to preserve one’s cache of firewood is to invest in quality tarpaulins, firewood racks and firewood covers.

If you are planning on storing your firewood outside in the elements, you may want to think about purchasing super heavy-duty tarpaulins. Super heavy-duty tarpaulins are designed to withstand cold temperatures, UV snow glare and abrasions. In the case of our super heavy-duty tarpaulins, they are also waterproof, acid resistant and mildew resistant.

When it comes to setting up your outdoor storage area, you could opt to affix the tarpaulins to trees or posts with bungee tie downs and eye bolt screws. Just make sure that the wood pile itself is situated a minimum of 6-inches above the ground and not completely encased in the super heavy-duty tarpaulin. Otherwise, you’ll inadvertently trap the naturally occurring moisture under the tarpaulin, thereby defeating the purpose of shielding the firewood in the first place.

Of course an even better option is to store the firewood on heavy-duty, powder-coated, steel racks. The racks range in size from 4-feet to 12-feet. They are designed to keep the wood stacked neatly and safely above the ground. In addition, the
y come equipped with a custom fitted, durable, waterproof, adjustable cover.

The cover allows for optimal air exposure and protection from the elements. Plus, because it fits securely over top of the rack’s posts, it won’t blow away on windy days. Therefore, you could feasibly place the firewood racks onto your home’s porch or inside of a carport. They would also work well if placed inside of an attached garage, shed or basement.

Whichever storage location you decide upon, consider splitting and cutting the wood to size before you stack it. We’d suggest making each log 6-inches thick and a slightly shorter than your fireplace’s opening. In our experience, doing so will help dry out the wood quickly and make it more convenient to use.

To learn more about using tarpaulins and firewood racks to prepare your home for the change of seasons, contact us toll-free at (877) 811-3911.

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Tarpaulins: Selecting the Best One for Beach Camping Trips

So you’ve decided to go beach camping for the first-time this year. Congratulations! You’ll undoubtedly want to invest in a tarpaulin and other beach camping supplies. However, before you do, take a moment to read through our tips.

 

Choosing a Beach Worthy Tarpaulin

 

Keep in mind that not all tarpaulins are created equal. Therefore, you’ll want to make sure that you choose the right one for your situation. We’d recommend selecting a tarpaulin that is mildew resistant, rot proof, waterproof and made with heat sealed, laminated seams. That way, it is likely to hold up better against the ravages of salt water spray and sand.

If you are going to be camping on an exposed area of the beach, we’d also suggest that you choose a silver UV tarp. They are typically designed to block out the sun completely. Take our silver UV tarps for example. They are 3-ply and feature a layer of durable scrim with rope reinforced edges. It will effectively keep out the sun’s rays. In addition, it’s acid, water, mildew and tear resistant.

 

Once you choose the right tarpaulin for your beach camping trip, you’ll need to decide on a size. In general, tarpaulins are 4 to 6 inches smaller than the cut size, which is listed on the packaging. To help you determine which size might be appropriate for your needs, check out our online custom tarp estimator.

 

Setting up a Beach Worthy Tarpaulin

 

We should also let you know that camping on the beach can be an extremely windy affair. Thus, you’ll want to make sure that you bring along the right cording, tarpaulin stakes and tent poles. In our experience, ball bungee cords and bungee tie downs make an excellent selection because they provide flexible tension. The flexible tension will help to put less stress onto your tarpaulin’s grommets. They are also capable of withstanding wind bursts and eliminating sagging issues. In addition, you may want to consider purchasing black UV rope too. Like the silver UV tarps, they’ll be able to handle exposure to the sand, salt water and intense sunshine.

 

As far as the tarpaulin stakes and poles go, look for ones that are marked as appropriate for use in sandy soil. In most instances, you’ll need one to two guy ropes, one stake and one pole per tarpaulin grommet. Once you have those items on head, set your tarpaulin up in an area that offers natural wind breaks and won’t be impacted by high tide.

Would you like to learn more about camping with tarpaulins? Contact us online or by dialing (877) 811-3911. We offer a vast collection of tarpaulins, portable garages, enclosed tents and more. Furthermore, our shopping cart is secure and we ship to areas throughout the U.S.

 

http://www.canopiesandtarps.com/

 

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PGA Using Tarps For Golf Course Protection.

In recent years The Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass has gone to great lengths to protect the greens. Extensive studies, including GPS computer models, have been conducted to see if shade factors such as trees effect the golf courses overall health is a positive or negative way. Although trees were shown to have little effect on the health and growth of grass on the course, factors such as extreme cold we shown to damage parts of the course.

The golf course is now using black tarps, which are scientifically engineered to allow moisture through the fabric. The golf course officials have found positive results by using the tarps during times that temperatures dip below 38 degrees. The fabric protects the grass but also absorbs and retains heat that is beneficial to the grass.

In an article by pgatour.com titled, "Multi-step plan from agronomy team readies Stadium Course for PLAYERS", writer Michael Curet goes into great detail regarding the recent study and how this may be a models for other golf courses.

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Using A Tarps Around The House.

Tarps can be used for a multitude of purposes and can be found in just about every industry. Aside from the commercial benefits, tarps can be very useful around the house as well. Although tarps are widely used among both residents and businesses there is still a large portion of the population that does not know exactly what a tarp is. It is usually after an explanation that people realize that they have either seen a tarp at one time or have actually used one. This is probably due to the fact that the tarp has many names amongst its users. Some of the most common references are covers, sheeting, canopy top, ground cover and so on.

The word tarp is derived from its full name, the tarpaulin and is defined by most dictionaries as a material used to cover and protect objects from moisture such as waterproof canvas. This definition can be a little misleading because not all tarps are made of canvas materials. Aside from canvas there are several other fabrics that comprise the tarpaulin including vinyl, nylon and polyester. However, the most common and most popular fabric used in tarp manufacturing today is polyethylene. Polyethylene tarps are also referred to as poly tarps and are the most widely used cover for outdoor protection today.

Poly tarps can be found on just about every outdoor canopy structure sold in retail stores and is ideal for several reasons. During the manufacturing process, thousands of threads are cross weaved before the lamination and grommet process. These poly fibers are naturally resistant to rot, mildew and mold. Stacked in three layers, the poly tarp is then laminated with a waterproof and UV resistant laminate, which produces an end product that is not only lightweight but also durable and cost effective. The grommets are set every eighteen inches and reinforced with rope edges that are hemmed.


This lightweight, durable tarp product is great for all types of uses at home and is a key essential for travel and road trips. Some of the most common uses for poly tarps in a residential setting include roof protection, gardening, patio shade, car protection, ground cover and can even be used as a drop cloth for painting and other household repairs. The poly tarp is also the perfect travel companion and works great as ground bedding for camping tents. With so many available sizes and colors, there is a poly tarp for any and all applications whether it be for residential or commercial use.

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Poly Tarp Covers

As Hurricane Earl lashes the Caribbean as a category 3 storm, the U.S. braces for what could be the first major hurricane to make landfall this year. Hurricanes can cause severe damage to property including rooftops. During these seasonal storms, a poly tarp can provide protection both before and after the storm.

Tarps are simply sheets of laminated polyethylene that are retrofitted with grommets every 18 inches. The waterproof material of the poly tarp is also naturally resistant to mold, rot and mildew. These factors along with the lightweight nature of the poly tarp makes them ideal in emergency situations. Durable and tear resistant, the tarp cover is an asset in storm situations as well as in every day applications.


Using a tarp to cover damaged rooftops after a storm such as a Hurricane, can greatly reduce collateral damage to both the interior and exterior of a structure. The tarps can be easily attached to any roof through the use of 2 x 4 studs and nails. The placing of the tarp covers along vulnerable locations will reduce water from entering a structure and will limit the need for evacuation do to unlivable conditions. Sold in a variety of colors and sizes, tarps have proven to be a great asset during Hurricane situations in the past and should be a main component in storm preparation for the future.

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The Mesh Count And Thickness Of A Tarp Defined.

Throughout the manufacturing process, tarps undergo different processes including lamination, heat sealing and grommet installation. However, before the manufacturing process begins a few things must be determined. For example, what will be the tarps thickness, size and mesh count? Both the thickness and mesh count of the tarp cover determines if the end product is heavy-duty or a lighter grade utility tarp. Generally, tarps are made of several woven mesh layers that are finished off with outer polyethylene sheet layers. The most common questions by consumers looking for tarps are what does the thickness mean? And what is the difference between mesh counts?


A tarps thickness is measured in mils. The larger the number; the thicker and heavier duty the tarp will be. Most heavy-duty tarps have a 12-mil thickness while the lighter utility tarps are around 4-6 mils in thickness. There are even some complete canopy sets that include a 23 mil cover for regions with heavy snow fall. Directly related to the thickness of a tarp is the weight in ounces. Again, the heavier-duty the tarp; the more the tarp will weigh in ounces per square yard. A typical heavy-duty tarp will be around 6-8 ounce per square yard.


The mesh fabric specifies threads per square inch in both a horizontal and vertical orientation. The tighter the weave; the more durable the tarp will be. The industry standard for heavy-duty tarps is a mesh count of 12 x 12 or 12 x 14. Super heavy-duty tarps can be found with a mesh count of 14 x 14 and are generally used for commercial purposes like covering hay. When looking to purchase a heavy-duty tarp for home or business look for tarpaulins with a minimum mesh count of 12 x 12.


Aside from the thickness and mesh count, a tarp cover should be UV protected, waterproof have grommet spacing every 18 inches as well as be both mildew and rot resistant. Although there are many different varieties available, the key characteristics of a heavy-duty tarp should be consistent with the above-mentioned specifications. A tarp cover’s particular color will not have an effect on the overall quality or durability of the fabric. Although some of the lighter colors allow light translucency as compared to the Silver Tarp variety, which has a sun-blocking black scrim layer for total shade, the quality will remain as long as the two varieties share the same specifications.

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Spacing Of Grommets In Tarps

There are many different tarps available for purchase online. Tarp covers can range from the lighter grade to medium and heavy-duty. There are also several different varieties of fabrics available including poly, mesh, vinyl and canvas. Despite the grade and fabric composition, every tarp will be constructed as a finished product with grommets. The grommet spacing can be different from one manufacturer to another.

Generally, grommet spacing on tarps will either be every 36”, 18” or 12” around the perimeter of the cover. Lighter grade utility tarps will commonly come with grommet spacing every 36”. This is due to the fact that utility grade tarps are not used as canopy covers and are made for temporary use and minimal securing. However, heavier grade tarps are made specifically for canopy use and long-term coverage needs. The grommet spacing for these tarps must be closer together to achieve the desired strength and stability.

Heavy-duty tarps usually have grommet spacing that is every 18”. Grommets help distribute the tension evenly along the edge of the tarp. The more grommets and closer spacing a tarp has the better the load distribution will be and the longer the tarp will last under severe conditions. 12” grommet spacing on tarps is rare and will usually only be found on the mesh shade tarp variety. Since mesh tarps are commonly used as privacy fabric on fencing, the 12” spacing is required for a secure fit on fence lines.

For more information on tarps please visit our website at http://www.canopiesandtarps.com/

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Useful Tips When Installing A Roof Tarp.

As the 2010 hurricane season approaches it is important to start preparing the necessary supplies that will help you weather the storms. Aside from the extra food, water and medical supplies that are needed, a solid waterproof tarp should be included in every household survival kit. Tarps can be used for a number of different applications but are the ideal choice for emergency roof repairs after a storm. However, there are some important aspects to installing a roof tarp that should be considered. Installing a roof tarp can be dangerous and should never be attempted if your safety is in question or if there is a professional available to do the job.

Identifying the damaged areas after a storm is your first objective. You want to look for indicators that damage has occurred by doing a quick walk through of the interior and exterior of the house. You want to look for disturbed shingles, dipping or indentations to the roof, broken roof tiles, missing sheet metal panels and last but not least water damage to the inside of the house caused by leaking. Once the damaged areas have been assessed you may begin the application process. In addition to a tarp cover, you will also need a ladder, some 2 x 4 wooden studs and 3-1/4” screws or nails.

Start by laying out the tarp cover over the desired space. Multiple roof tarps may be required to completely cover an area. If two or more pieces are need then it is best to simply adjoin the two pieces by overlapping them. To overlap the tarp, use a long single piece of wood that is longer than the width of the tarp. Place the wood strip on the edge of the tarp cover that is overlapping the bottom one. Begin folding the wood strip back on itself for three full rotations. This will create enough of a seal to keep the two covers watertight. Next, Cut the 2 x 4 strips into 2 to 3 foot sections along the perimeter of the roof just at the edge of the tarp cover. Try to space the strips of wood about 1 foot apart from one another. Spacing the 2 x 4 strips apart from one another will allow water and debris to safely run off the rooftop without disturbing the cover. Finally, use the screws to secure each 2 x 4 wooden strip of wood to the rooftop.

Installing a roof tarp should only be done in emergency situations when a professional is unavailable. The tarp covers should never be installed in dangerous conditions or while the storm is active. If you have any doubts about the safety of the situation then stop working immediately and wait for a roofing contractor to finish the job.

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Poly Tarp Covers.

Poly tarps have long been used as canopy covers for pole tents but in recent years there has been noticeable increases in the different types of uses. Poly tarps are now being used for many different applications and in many different industries including construction, agriculture, garden, sports, marine and more. The sudden popularity can be attributed to the strength, longevity and cost effectiveness of the poly tarp. Made of high density polyethylene, these protective covers are typically heat sealed, laminated and then treated with added fade blockers and anti-microbial agents, which prevent cracking and tearing under harsh conditions. The end result is an extremely durable poly tarp cover that is not only lightweight but also affordable. These characteristics have been the driving force in the poly tarps newfound popularity with consumers and have replaced more expensive alternatives such as canvas and vinyl.

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Using A Roof Tarp In Emergency Situations.

Following any major storm the next crucial step is damage assessment. As part of the assessment process it is important to note the areas most critically affected by the storm and make temporary repairs to stabilize your home until a professional contractor is available. One of the most common types of damage after major storms is roof damage. Using a tarp to cover the damaged areas is crucial until more permanent repairs can be made. Immediate action in emergency situations can prevent further deterioration to the exposed areas of a roof and can greatly reduce future repair costs. However, tarping a roof should only be done if there is an immediate threat of further damage and a professional is not available to complete the task. When making tarp repairs to a roof it is always best to use the buddy system and have a friend or neighbor assist you with the project. Avoid standing on steeply pitched rooftops and never stand directly on the tarp when applying it to the roof, especially if it is wet.

Identifying the damaged areas caused by hurricanes, tropical storms and other natural elements can be difficult at first sight but there are some key indicators that damage has occurred. Some of those key indicators include but are not limited to disturbed shingles caused by high winds, dipping or indentations to the roof, broken roof tiles, missing sheet metal panels and of course water damage to the inside of the house due to leaking or dripping. Water will travel the path of least resistance so the area the leak appears to be in may not actually be the origin. If possible, try to track the water leak to its origin. In order to accomplish this you may have to crawl in the attic or even cut a square out of the ceiling drywall to find the source.

Once all damaged areas have been assessed, the tarp process can be initiated. There are a couple of different options available for roof covers but a polyethylene tarp is the preferred fabric due to its tear resistant qualities. It is safer and more manageable to use several smaller covers than one large cover. In addition to a tarp cover, some other items are essential for the process and include a ladder, a pair of heavy-duty gloves, a hammer, safety glasses, a cutting instrument, several 2 x 4 wooden studs and 3-1/4” screws or framing nails. Start by laying out the tarpaulin over the damaged area. If you need to use multiple tarps to completely cover an area then connect the two pieces by overlapping them. Use a 2 x 4 strip of wood that is longer than the width of the tarp and place it on top of the tarps edge that is overlapping the bottom cover. Fold the wood strip back on itself with both the bottom and top tarp at the same time. Complete three full rotations before securing the 2 x 4 strip to the roof with nails or screws. The folding of the tarps with the wood strip will create a seal and prevent water from seeping through the two separate covers. Place an additional strip of wood, of equal length, on top of the first and secure it with nails or screws. The sandwich effect will further reduce water seepage as well as, strengthen the hold on the roof. The final step in the process will require placing 2 x 4 strips of wood cut into 3 or 4-foot sections along the perimeter of the tarp cover. Try to space the strips of wood about 1 foot apart from one another. The space between strips will allow the movement of water, dirt and debris and prevent it from collecting on top of the tarp and damaged area.

Safety is of the utmost importance and using a tarp cover, as a temporary solution should only be done in an emergency situation. Never attempt to repair a roof during a storm and always stop working if the weather starts to worsen. Roof repairs are best left to the professionals, so if there is any professional assistance available please use it. Furthermore, always remember to use the buddy system when on a roof or using ladders. Roofs can be extremely dangerous and under no circumstances should these steps be attempted in foul weather or unsafe conditions. These instructions are just a suggestion and the author holds no liability or responsibility for accidents that may occur during the repair nor holds any responsibility for faulty repairs. Furthermore, it is recommended that you consult with a professional if there is any doubt whatsoever about safety or procedure.

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