How to Choose the Best Tarpaulin Material

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Tarpaulin Material for Your Needs

Introduction

Choosing the right tarpaulin material can feel overwhelming with the variety of options available. Whether you’re using a tarp for camping, construction, or protecting outdoor furniture, selecting the correct material is essential for ensuring durability and functionality. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about tarpaulin materials, so you can make a well-informed decision tailored to your needs.

What is a Tarpaulin?

A tarpaulin, or tarp, is a large, durable sheet made from materials like polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), canvas, or mesh. These materials are typically waterproof or water-resistant, designed to provide protection against elements such as moisture, dust, and UV rays.

Common Tarpaulin Uses

Tarpaulins are highly versatile and are used across a range of applications, including:

• Covering vehicles and boats
• Providing temporary shelter for camping
• Protecting construction sites
• Covering outdoor furniture
• Ground covers for events or outdoor workspaces

Types of Tarpaulin Materials

Polyethylene (PE) Tarpaulin

Polyethylene (PE) Tarpaulin is made from woven polyethylene fabric, which makes it lightweight, flexible, waterproof, and UV-resistant. Its affordability and ease of handling are major advantages, along with its excellent water resistance. However, it is less durable and prone to tearing under stress. This type of tarpaulin is best suited for temporary shelters, covering garden furniture, and protecting vehicles or boats.

Pros:

• Affordable and easy to handle
• Great water resistance
•  

Cons:

• Less durable, prone to tearing under stress

Best For: Industrial covers, construction sites, long-term outdoor use.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Tarpaulin

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Tarpaulin is crafted from laminated or coated PVC fabric, making it heavy-duty, highly durable, and waterproof. Its strength and resistance to harsh weather conditions make it versatile for various applications, though it tends to be more expensive, heavier, and less flexible. It is ideal for industrial covers, construction sites, and long-term outdoor use.

Pros:

• Extremely durable and weather-resistant
• Versatile for various applications

Cons:

• More expensive, heavier, and less flexible

Best For: Industrial covers, construction sites, long-term outdoor use.

Canvas Tarpaulin

Canvas Tarpaulin is made from natural or synthetic fibers, offering breathability and durability, often treated to resist water and mildew. Environmentally friendly and breathable, canvas tarps are perfect for outdoor events, camping, and covering machinery. However, they can be heavy and require regular maintenance to maintain their water resistance.

Pros:

• Environmentally friendly
• Highly breathable

Cons:

• Can be heavy and may require regular maintenance to maintain water resistance

Best For: Outdoor events, camping, covering machinery.

Mesh Tarpaulin

Mesh Tarpaulin is created from loosely woven fabric, allowing air and light to pass through while being UV-resistant. It is lightweight and ideal for windy areas, offering shade without obstructing airflow. However, it is not waterproof and provides less privacy. Mesh tarps are best used for shade structures, windbreaks, and pool covers.

Pros:

• Ideal for windy areas
• Lightweight, provides shade without obstructing airflow

Cons:

• Not waterproof, offers less privacy

Best For: Shade structures, windbreaks, pool covers.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tarpaulin Material

1. Durability

The material’s durability depends on its intended use. For heavy-duty applications, such as industrial projects, opt for PVC tarpaulins. For lighter, short-term use, PE tarps provide an affordable option.

2. Weather Resistance

If you’re facing unpredictable weather conditions, a PVC or PE tarp will offer excellent water resistance. Canvas tarps provide breathability, making them ideal for moderate climates.

3. Flexibility

PE tarps are easy to maneuver and store due to their lightweight construction. PVC tarps, though heavier, offer superior durability but may be less flexible.

4. Cost

Your budget will dictate your choice. PE tarps are budget-friendly for temporary use, while PVC and canvas tarps come at a higher cost but provide superior longevity.

5. Application

Select your tarp based on its intended use. PE tarps are perfect for outdoor camping or covering light objects, whereas PVC tarps are suited for long-term industrial and outdoor projects.

Best For: Shade structures, windbreaks, pool covers.

Comparing Tarpaulin Materials

PE vs. PVC: PE tarps are lightweight and affordable, ideal for short-term use. PVC tarps, however, provide maximum durability and are designed for heavy-duty, long-term applications.

PVC vs. Canvas: PVC is fully waterproof and highly durable, ideal for industrial use. Canvas offers breathability and is better for applications requiring airflow, such as covering machinery.

Canvas vs. Mesh: Canvas provides solid coverage, while mesh allows airflow and light penetration, making it ideal for areas needing shade or windbreaks.

How to Choose the Right Size and Thickness

Standard Sizes

Tarpaulins come in various standard sizes, from small covers to large industrial sheets. Choose a size that offers full coverage with extra room for securing the tarp properly.

Thickness Ratings

Tarps are typically measured in mils (thousandths of an inch) or grams per square meter (GSM). The higher the number, the thicker and more durable the tarp. Consider your usage when selecting thickness; thicker tarps provide better protection but may be heavier.

Special Features to Consider

UV Protection

UV protection is crucial for tarps that will be exposed to direct sunlight, ensuring the material doesn’t degrade quickly.

Fire Retardancy

If you’re using tarps in high-risk environments like construction sites or events, fire-retardant tarps are a must. They help prevent ignition and slow flame spread.

Waterproofing

While many tarps are water-resistant, additional waterproofing treatments can enhance protection, especially in extreme weather conditions.

Reinforced Edges

Look for tarps with reinforced edges and grommets to ensure extra strength, making them easier to secure and less likely to tear under tension.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Tarpaulin Options

For those conscious of environmental impact, consider canvas tarps or tarps made from recycled materials. These options are biodegradable or made with less environmentally harmful processes.

Maintenance Tips for Different Tarpaulin Materials

Polyethylene (PE) Tarpaulins

• Regularly check for tears and promptly repair them.
• Clean using mild soap and water to prevent dirt buildup and mildew.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Tarpaulins

• Inspect regularly for signs of wear.
• Clean with mild detergent and dry completely before storage to avoid mold.

Canvas Tarpaulins

• Clean with a soft brush and mild soap, and re-treat with a water-resistant solution as needed.
• Store in a dry place to prevent mildew.

Mesh Tarpaulins

• Clean by hosing down with water, and inspect for damage regularly.
• Repair minor tears promptly to extend the tarp’s lifespan.

FAQ

Find quick answers to common questions.

What is the most durable tarpaulin material?

PVC tarpaulin is widely regarded as the most durable due to its resistance to harsh weather conditions and long-term wear.

Can tarpaulins be used for long-term outdoor applications?

Yes, PVC and canvas tarps are ideal for long-term outdoor use, thanks to their durability and weather-resistant properties.

How do I clean and maintain my tarp?

Use mild soap and water to clean your tarp. Ensure it is thoroughly dried before storage, and repair any tears promptly to prolong its lifespan.

Are there eco-friendly tarpaulin options available?

Yes, canvas tarps and those made from recycled materials are eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastic tarps.