Tarpaulin is a very common protective covering used in various industries. It is not only used to protect items from weather elements and offer shade, but it can also be used by businesses to market and advertise their products because tarps are durable and water-resistant.
With so many tarps available in the market, it can be quite confusing to pick the right one, especially if it’s your first time. There are plenty of things you need to pay attention to when buying a tarp that suits your needs and preferences. Here are the most important factors you need to consider when buying tarps.
- The quality of the tarp
One of the most important things you need to pay attention to when buying a tarp is the quality of the tarp. Tarps generally come in different qualities. Some are superior to others when it comes to quality.
It’s advisable to choose a robust tarp that can withstand harsh weather. Such kinds of tarps will last longer and serve you more. Moreover, they will perform their job effectively to protect your items from harsh weather.
- The correct type of tarp
Tarps typically come in various types based on the material used to produce them. That’s why before you select the best tarp, you must first understand the many types obtainable. Here are some of the available types of tarps:
Poly tarps: These are probably the most purchased types of tarp. This type of tarp is heavy-duty, making it be used in many applications. It is made from polyethylene plastic. It can be used for camping, in home construction, or repair projects to make a temporary roof, among many other short-term projects.
Some of the qualities of poly tarps are that they have a low water absorption rate and are lightweight, making them ideal for outdoor usage.
Vinyl tarps: these tarps are made from ethylene molecules, making them more expensive than poly tarps but more durable. They are frequently used for covering equipment, furniture, RVs, trucks, and other vehicles.
Canvas tarps: are ideal for more demanding applications, such as lengthy building or painting operations and roof covers. Canvas tarps are often costlier than poly tarps, but they are more robust and resistant to abrasions.
PVC tarps: Due to their extreme flexibility and durability, PVC tarps are perfect for industrial uses such as welding curtains and floor coverings.
- The size of the tarp
When purchasing the right tarp that suits your needs, size matters more. A simple measurement of width and length should give you the correct size you need, especially if you are looking for a tarp to use as a ground cover to cover part of a damaged roof.
On the other hand, if you want to cover a three-dimensional item, you’ll have to be very keen. Tarps are typically made to a “cut size.” So you must account for this disparity. The last thing you want is to purchase a small-sized tarp that won’t be useful to you. That’s why you must pay attention to size when purchasing a tarpaulin.
- Durability and resistance of the tarpaulin
You should also consider the durability and resistance of the tarp you intend to purchase. This is very important, especially if you plan to use the tarp outdoors for an extended period. Fortunately, almost all tarps have eyelets per meter, strengthened hems, and are weather-resistant, rot-resistant, and UV-protected. This means that they are not only robust but durable and long-lasting.
- The thickness of the tarp
Tarpaulins also generally come in various thicknesses, which are measured in mils. That’s why you must determine the level of thickness you want for your tarp. The average thickness of a tarpaulin ranges from 30-60 mils. But there are tarps with a thickness of up to 100 mils.
As a business owner, any thickness between 30-60 mils will suffice. But this will depend on how you plan to use the tarps. For instance, if you want to use the tarp for heavy-duty usages such as construction and extensive industry needs, you can go for one with 80-100 mils thickness.
- The color of the tarp
The color of tarps refers to more than their appearance and construction. It also describes the type, quality, and durability of the tarp. Tarps are available in numerous colors. One of the most common forms is the silver, heavy-duty tarp that effectively blocks sunlight.
A white tarp provides some shade while allowing light to pass through. Red, yellow, and orange tarps are deployed in places requiring strong visibility. In contrast, brown, blue, and green tarps are commonly used for general construction or landscaping. So you must figure out the color of tarpaulin you want before you go ahead and purchase one.
