Even heard about a tarp? Or what is a tarp used for?
A tarp is one of the common materials used across industries to protect people and goods from changing weather conditions. Even if you haven’t heard about it, we bet that you have seen a tarp around you more times than you can count. From shiny billboards on the roads to covers over a truck or even as a tent or canopy at any outdoor event, this material is literally used everywhere and in every industry.
Here, we have discussed the different uses of tarps in various sectors so that you know why this material is so popular, regardless of the industry type. Take this article as a guide to learn more about tarp uses!
Table of Contents
What Is A Tarp?
A tarp (also known as tarpaulin) is a large, heavy-duty, yet flexible sheet that is used to protect goods and commodities from the elements. Usually made from durable material, like polyethylene (PE), canvas, vinyl, or PVC (polyvinyl chloride), this sheet is water-resistant/waterproof, weather-resistant, and extremely durable. It doesn’t matter if you want to use it for residential purposes or industrial applications; a tarp is a versatile material that can be used anywhere for top-notch protection from environmental factors.
Tarps come in different types, sizes, and thicknesses for versatile use. Depending on the type of application, the quality and size of the tarp is determined.
Different Types of Tarps
Even though the main goal of a tarp is to provide safety against the elements, there are several different types of tarpaulins available with various degrees of protection. The most common types of tarps are:
PVC Tarps (Polyvinyl Chloride)
PVC tarp is the most commonly used tarpaulin out there. It is a heavy-duty plastic fabric that is coated with polyester fabric with a layer of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). This plastic coating makes the PVC tarp extremely strong, waterproof, and resistant to wear and tear; it can withstand the elements and adverse weather conditions without getting damaged or leaking. It doesn’t matter if it’s pouring heavily or there is a snowstorm; this tarp[aulin will keep the elements at bay to protect what’s underneath.
In addition to being weather-resistant, PVC tarpaulins are also flame-retardent and chemical-resistant. You don’t have to worry about your things burning or getting damaged while covering them with this fabric.
Because of its strength, weather-resistant properties, and flexibility, PVC tarps are used across industries for top-notch protection.
PE Tarps (Polyethylene)
Made from woven polyethylene plastic and protective layering on both sides, the PE tarp is a lightweight yet durable option used for various short-term applications. From quick, makeshift shelters for outdoor events to covering sand and bricks in construction sites and protecting something for a day or two, this tarpaulin provides temporary solutions for all your needs.
In addition to being super lightweight, this tarp is waterproof, UV-resistant, and rot-resistant. It will not let the elements pass through to damage the commodities underneath it. But as it is lightweight, you need to fasten and secure it perfectly so that it doesn’t move away and expose your goods to the environment.
Another thing about PE tarpaulin is that it is extremely flexible. Because of its weight and flexibility, this material can be handled, folded, and transported for varieties of use.
Also, as polyethylene tarpaulin is economical, it is suitable for a wide range of applications, especially when portability and affordability are your concerns.
Canvas Tarps
If you are looking for an eco-friendly option, the canvas tarp is the right choice for you. Unlike the others, canvas tarpaulin is made from heavy-duty, natural fabric (cotton or linen) to make it breathable and flexible. It is the best option for covering items, like agricultural goods, that require constant air circulation so that they don’t get damaged due to moisture buildup.
Besides being breathable, canvas tar is also water and heat-resistant. As this fabric often has a wax coating, it can repel water and keep the goods underneath safe. However, remember that it’s not 100% waterproof, and therefore, it can suffer from tears and leaks if used for extended hours in rain.
Talking about leaks, keep in mind that canvas tarps aren’t as strong and durable as the plastic options. It cannot withstand harsh weather conditions for too long and too efficiently.
Vinyl Tarps
Polyvinyl chloride tarp, more commonly known as vinyl tarp, is a heavy-duty, durable tarpaulin that is made from polyester fabric coated with vinyl material. As vinyl is a strong material, vinyl tarps are industrial-grade, exceptionally strong, durable, and resistant to extreme weather conditions. It doesn’t matter if there is a heavy downpour, strong wind, or excessive snowfall; this fabric will keep the things underneath safe and protected for a long period without getting damaged.
Even though this tarpaulin is similar to PVC ones, it is generally thicker and more durable. Vinyl tarp is also fully waterproof, flame-retardent, UV, and cold-resistant, which adds to its durability even more. This type of tarpaulin is the best option for industries where exceptional durability and strength are critical, like industrial covers for heavy machinery and equipment.
Clear Vinyl Tarps
As the name suggests, clear vinyl tarps are made from transparent vinyl material to give them a unique and fancy look. This type of tarpaulin allows the light to pass through easily to provide amazing visibility of the items underneath. Because of its fancy appearance, this tarp is a perfect pick for outdoor parties and events. It is also widely used in greenhouses to let the sun’s rays reach the plants inside.
Even though it is transparent, clear vinyl tarps are typically thick, strong, and durable. This material is fully waterproof and, hence, doesn’t let rain, moisture, and snow leak through. Additionally, it also resists UV and adverse weather conditions to ensure the safety of the goods underneath.
Moreover, as it is made from vinyl, clear vinyl tarps are also industrial-grade and, therefore, suitable for heavy-duty use. You can use this tarpaulin in any industry you want without the fear of wear, tears, and damage.
Mesh Tarps
Made from woven polyethylene or polypropylene fabric, the mesh tarp comes with numerous small holes or perforations all over the surface to allow air, light, and moisture to pass through easily. Unlike the other solid tarpaulins on the list, mesh ones are breathable and perfect for applications where airflow is essential.
However, even though this tarp has small holes on its surface, it provides shade from the sunlight for safety. Depending on the type and quality, mesh tarpaulin can block between 45% and 90% of sunlight to shield the items underneath efficiently.
Because of its unique characteristics, this tarp is a perfect pick for fencing, window covers, sports fields, construction sites, and others.
Nylon Tarps
As the name suggests, nylon tarp is a special type of tarpaulin made from high-quality nylon fabric. As nylon is a synthetic material, it is lightweight yet strong and resistant to wear and tear; it is weather-resistant and flexible, too; you can use nylon tarps in several different industries, including camping, hiking, emergency shelters, and others where portability and strength are essential.
However, although this tarpaulin is water-resistant, it’s not completely waterproof, and therefore, it might leak during prolonged use in the rain.
Custom Tarps
If you have some unique needs, you can always try out custom tarps to get your required size, shape, material, and color of materials. These tarpaulins are specifically designed and manufactured to meet the particular demand of a user so that they don’t have to compromise their needs in any way.
Even though getting your own tarp sounds expensive, in reality, it’s quite cost-effective; you don’t have to buy several sheets of tarpaulins and then customize them to fit your needs.
Industrial Tarps
Made from heavy-duty materials, industrial tarps are specially designed to withstand harsh weather conditions without getting damaged. It doesn’t matter if you use it to cover large machines and equipment, as a temporary shelter, or for outdoor storage; this tarpaulin will provide maximum protection against weather, chemicals, fire, and wear and tear. Because they are made from high-quality materials, industrial tarps also offer extended longevity for the convenience of their users.
Divider Curtains
Divider curtains or tarps are used to create partitions within larger spaces, like warehouses and factories, ballrooms, large fields, construction sites, etc. This type of tarpaulin is usually made from different types of heavy-duty materials, like vinyl, canvas, or PVC, to ensure durability as well as flexibility. As it is used as a curtain, flexibility is crucial.
Also, as it is typically made from strong materials, this tarpaulin can withstand water and weather and doesn’t get damaged or suffer from wear and tear anytime soon.
Different types of tarps, their unique features, and their uses at a glance:
| Tarp Type | Unique Features | Uses |
| PVC Tarps | Durable, waterproof, flame-retardant | Industrial covers, machinery, outdoor storage |
| PE Tarps | Lightweight, affordable, general outdoor use | Temporary covers, camping, agriculture |
| Canvas Tarps | Breathable, water-resistant, eco-friendly | Equipment covers, truck tarps, agriculture |
| Vinyl Tarps | Tear-resistant, waterproof, UV-resistant | Construction, heavy-duty outdoor protection |
| Clear Vinyl Tarps | Transparent, durable, weatherproof | Patio enclosures, greenhouses, outdoor dining |
| Mesh Tarps | Breathable, allows airflow, lightweight | Shade screens, debris control, truck covers |
| Nylon Tarps | Lightweight, portable, water-resistant | Camping, lightweight covers, emergency shelter |
| Custom Tarps | Tailored fit, specialized features | Specific dimensions and needs |
| Industrial Tarps | Thick, heavy-duty, long-lasting | Large-scale storage, heavy equipment, machinery |
| Divider Curtains | Space division, sound-dampening | Warehouses, commercial spaces, industrial sites |
What Is A Tarp Used For?
If you are wondering what a tarp is used for, we have the right answer for you. Here, we have discussed all the possible sectors where you can use tarpaulins for safety and protection.
Covering Equipment and Tools
Tarpaulins are often used across industries to protect tools and equipment from the elements. Dirt, dust, and weather can cause rust, contamination, and damage to the expensive machinery and damage them beyond repair. This not only safeguards the items but also reduces repair and maintenance costs significantly.
In addition to safeguarding tools and equipment, a tarp cover also ensures their security. When they are fully covered, they are kind of out of sight; this reduces the risk of theft.
Covering Materials on Construction Sites
Tarpaulin is a “must-have” product on construction sites. It doesn’t matter whether the site is indoors or outdoors; the use of tarps is undeniable.
Construction sites use tarpaulins in different sectors. They use tarp sheets to cover materials like sand, bricks, cement, and others and protect them from getting damaged due to the changing weather conditions. Such coverings also help to maintain the quality of the raw materials.
In addition to the building materials, construction sites use large tarps to create enclosures around the scaffolding structure. It not only shields the structure from rain and wind but also keeps the sun at bay for temperature control. This enclosure also enhances safety by catching falling debris and preventing it from spreading in the surrounding areas.
Camping and Hiking
The benefits of a tarp during a camping or hiking trip are undeniable. From making tents and shelters to covering your gear and using it as a windbreak, tarpaulins are used everywhere. This material keeps you and your belongings safe from rain, sun, and wind so that you can enjoy your trip to the wilderness to the fullest.
However, remember to buy a super lightweight, flexible, yet strong tarp for camping and hiking. This will enable you to use it as you need while making it easier to carry.
Temporary Shelter
Whether you want to build a shelter for emergency situations, outdoor events, or construction projects, there is no alternative to a good-quality tarpaulin. As this material is strong, durable, waterproof, and weather-resistant, it will keep you safe under the shelter, even in adverse weather conditions.
Ground Cover
Tarps are also useful as ground covers. They not only protect the surface but also help to create a clean, dry, and safe area for various activities like camping and outdoor events; campers lay tarps on the ground to prevent moisture from passing through. This material is also often used to cover grass, dirt, and small holes in the ground to create an even area for outdoor activities or equipment placement.
Tarpaulin ground covers also prevent soil erosion and keep the ground intact.
Transport Protection
Not all cargo and trucks are covered; to protect your goods and accessories from the elements during transit, a tarpaulin is a must. Tarp covers on cargo and trucks safeguard the commodities underneath from wind, sun, and rain and also prevent them from falling off during shifting or on bad road conditions.
Emergency Repairs
Tarps are a life-saver for emergency repairs! It doesn’t matter if there is a roof leak, damaged walls, or even a broken vehicle; this material provides temporary yet quick protection for your convenience. You can safeguard the vehicle or structure from changing weather conditions with a tarp until you can do the necessary repairs.
Water Catcher
Tarpaulins can also be used as water catchers to collect and store rainwater effectively. It doesn’t matter if you are camping in the wild or at home; this will help you catch rainwater and use it whenever you need it. As tarps don’t leak water, it is one of the best water catchers out there.
What Type of Protection Does Tarp Provides?
The main job of a tarp is to provide protection to goods and commodities. However, you might wonder what type of protection a tarp provides to the users and how it’s relevant. Here is a complete list of the types of protection tarps offer to their users for your ease of learning.
Waterproof and Water Resistant
The tarp is extremely popular amongst its users because of its exceptional waterproof and water-resistant features. This material can repel the water and prevent it from leaking and damaging things underneath. While not all the tarpaulins are fully waterproof, they are definitely water-resistant.
Tarps that are typically made from PVC or vinyl are fully waterproof and, therefore, suitable for even extended hours of water exposure.
On the other hand, polyethylene (PE) or treated canvas tarpaulins offer excellent water resistance and are perfect for light rain protection.
Weather Resistant
In addition to protection from rain and water, tarps also offer incredible protection against the weather and elements. Whether it is exposed to wind, snow, or even dirt and dust, this material is made to keep the harsh outdoor conditions at bay to safeguard the commodities it is shielding.
Because of its incredible weather-resistant capabilities, tarps are suitable to use outdoors in any season.
UV Ray Protection
Besides water and weather, tarpaulins also block UV rays to keep the covered area cool and comfortable. It repels sunlight to some extent so that the goods don’t get damaged underneath it.
Also, when the tarps are used for tents, canopies, and temporary shelters, they maintain an optimal temperature and keep the interior comfortable.
That’s not all. UV-resistance also protects the tarp itself from damage, fading, and degradation.
Fire Retardancy
Some tarpaulins are specially treated with fire-retardant chemicals to protect them from catching fire or prevent them from melting when exposed to heat. This characteristic is very important and makes these tarps suitable for industrial use where they might be exposed to high heat or used near the fire.
Physical Protection
One of the main types of protection tarps provides is physical protection. As this material creates a protective cover over commodities, it can save them from rust, breakages, and other types of physical damage. It doesn’t matter if you are covering vehicles, machinery, sensitive equipment, or any other material, a tarp will always keep scratch, dents, rusts, or other types of physical impairment at bay.
Tear, Puncture, and Abrasion Resistance
Tarps are made strong and durable. As this material has a plastic or vinyl blend in it, the bond within is super strong, and therefore, they do not suffer from wear, tears, punctures, and abrasions easily. This feature not only ensures the extended durability of tarpaulins but also makes them for heavy-duty use, even in harsh weather conditions.
Mold and Mildew Resistance
Tarps are typically resistant to mold and mildew growth. As this material is waterproof and water-resistant, it doesn’t hold water and moisture to form these contaminations. Because of this advantage, tarpaulins can also be used in wet and humid conditions for a long time without the fear of mold, mildew, and even damage.
Grease, Oil, and Acid Resistance
Heavy-duty tarps, such as the ones made from PVC or vinyl, have a strong formation, and therefore, they are resistant to chemicals, acids, grease, and oils. Even when you use these tarpaulins in an industrial setting, where they are exposed to chemicals and oils, they won’t get damaged and hamper the safety of the goods underneath.
Anti-Static
Many tarpaulins available in the market come with anti-static properties. Even though it might sound fancy, this feature is important because it blocks static electricity and eliminates risks associated with it. For the utmost safety, especially in various manufacturing facilities, anti-static tarpaulins are “Must.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the full form of a tarp?
The full form of a tarp is “tarpaulin.” This name came from “tar” and “paulin” when tarp was first invented in the 17th century.
What is the point of a tarp?
The point of a tarp or tarpaulin is to provide protection against the elements, such as wind, rain, snow, and sun. This material also shields dirt, dust, and debris to keep the things underneath it safe and intact.
What are the disadvantages of a tarp?
One of the main disadvantages of tarps is that they are not environment-friendly. As tarpaulins are usually made or coated with plastic materials and involve synthetic fabric, they are not biodegradable and might harm the environment in the long run.
What type of tarp is best for outdoor storage?
Heavy-duty PVC, PE, and vinyl tarps are the best for outdoor storage. As these tarpaulins are waterproof and provide excellent protection from rain, UV rays, and harsh weather conditions, they can keep the goods underneath safe and free from damage.
Are tarps resistant to mold and mildew?
Tarps are generally resistant to mold and mildew. As water cannot pass through this material, there is a low chance that it will grow mold and mildew anytime soon. However, after every use, remember to wipe and dry the surface before storage to prevent mold growth in any way.
Final Words
Undoubtedly, a tarp is a versatile material that is used in various industries to provide the ultimate protection against different environmental conditions. Now that you know what a tarp is used for and every other aspect related to this material, protecting your commodities from the elements will never be the same; for the ultimate protection, you will always pick a TARP!
If you are looking for the best quality tarps at a reasonable price, don’t forget to call or email Tarp PVC; we make different types of high-quality tarps for your every need.
