Different Types of Waterproof Tarpaulins Explained

Tarps, or tarpaulins, are used for covering and protecting gear from rain, wind, and sunlight. Tarpaulins are durable, reusable, and portable. Not all tarpaulins are created equal. There are a variety of Tarpaulin types, each designed for a specific purpose. Understanding the types of Tarpaulin will help you select the best one for your needs.

Polyethylene (PE) Tarps

The polyethylene tarp is commonly used. This tarp is made from woven strands of plastic impregnated with a waterproof layer. Polyethylene tarps are lightweight, flexible, and resistant to mold or mildew.

Polyethylene tarps are used to cover patio furniture, covering materials for transport, or to quickly set up a shelter while camping. They are typically blue or green tarps, but they can be found in an assortment of colors and sizes. They are also one of the cheapest options.

PVC Tarpaulins

PVC tarps, as the name suggests, are made from polyester cloth that is coated with polyvinyl chloride. PVC tarps are heavier and stronger than PE tarps. They perform better in windy weather, heavy downpours, and they can even hold up under the weight of snow. PVC tarps are used in construction sites, on trucks, and at outdoor events because they have longevity. The tarps also resist UV rays from the sun, so they do not break down quickly when in sunlight.

Canvas Tarps

Canvas tarps are manufactured from tightly woven cotton or polyester. These tarps are coated with wax, oil, or materials that make them waterproof. Canvas tarps are heavier than plastic tarps, but they are much more breathable.

Canvas allows for breathing a little, and they are a great option for covering products such as lumber or covers for farm equipment that allow for some air exchange, without having a build-up of moisture inside. Canvas tarps are often used by farmers, painters, and the military.

Mesh Tarpaulins

Mesh Clear Tarpaulin sheets aren't entirely waterproof because they are made of loosely woven material, but there are waterproof-coated mesh tarps available for special applications. These mesh tarps are heavily coated, allowing some air and light to pass through while blocking most of the water.

Mesh tarps are commonly used to cover plants, for shading, and for providing cover on trucks carrying loose materials, like sand or gravel.

Mesh tarps can easily be used, are easier to manage, and are lighter than solid tarps.

Vinyl Tarps

Vinyl tarps are similar to PVC tarps, but most of the time, they are thicker and stronger than PVC. All vinyl tarps are made with a single layer of very strong vinyl to provide a layer of protection against tearing, chemicals (including oil), and extreme weather.

Vinyl tarps typically are suited for industrial applications and can be used to cover machinery, create a long-term shelter, or blanket a dirty floor during heavy work. Washable and exceptionally durable, vinyl tarps can last a long time with the proper care.

Heavy-Duty vs. Light-Duty Tarps

Tarpaulins also come in varying levels of strength. Light-duty tarps are thin, easily foldable, and not very durable, as they are primarily intended for short-term use. Heavy-duty tarps are thick, strong, and usually have reinforced edges with metal grommets, which would allow you to safely tie the tarp down.

For a quick job, you may not need anything more than a light-duty tarp. However, for outdoor cover over an extended period, a heavy-duty tarp would be a much better option.

Selecting the Proper Tarp

When selecting a tarp, you need to determine the use of the waterproof tarp, the amount of time you need it to last, and the weather it will need to go through. If you are camping or only needing temporary cover, then a PE tarp will suffice. If you are using it industrially, then you are better off with PVC or vinyl tarps, and if you need it to be breathable, you will need a canvas tarp.

The Bottom Line

Waterproof Transparent Tarpaulin sheets exist in many forms; each form has strengths and weaknesses. Light polyethylene sheets, heavy-duty vinyl covers, and so on, there is a tarp that can fit almost every job. With this understanding, you can pick one that will provide a reasonable amount of security to protect your goods dry, no matter the weather.

A tarp made from sturdy materials might sound simple, yet the correct waterproof tarp can make a huge difference in the efficiency of its protection against anything that may happen.