How to Customize a Tarpaulin for Specific Needs

A tarpaulin, or tarp, is a durable sheet that protects against the elements (water, sun, and wind). This useful item is used for camping, on farms, to cover up building work, or at home. Many Tarpaulins are manufactured in a range of standard sizes and shapes; however, you may at times need to alter or modify them for specific needs. Customization of a tarpaulin means it will be more beneficial for you and last longer while also providing the intended protection.

The Appropriate Material

Before you decide to modify your tarp, it is critical that you consider the material of the tarp. Some tarpaulins are manufactured from thin plastic sheeting, while others are heavy-duty canvas or PVC. If you are only going to be using the tarp for something simple, such as covering some furniture, the light plastic tarp may suffice. However, if you are going to be using it for outdoor shelters or on the farm perhaps; then thicker and more durable tarpaulins are advisable. Satisfactory selection of the base material, the changes or modifications you make will hold up.

Cutting the Tarp to Size

Sometimes a tarp can be ballpark too big or too small for the job. If this is the case, you can just cut it to size which is a great benefit of tarps. When cutting be sure to use sharp scissors or utility knife so that you have clean edges. After cutting, it will be necessary to seal the edges. This can be accomplished by folding the edge over and sewing, applying tarp tape, or heat sealing. If the tarp edges are left open they can fray and tear worse than if they were cut open.

Adding Grommets for Strength

Most tarps come with metal or plastic grommets all the way around the edges. These allow holes to tie the contacts to the tarp using ropes or bungees. If there are not enough grommets or you remove grommets when cutting the tarp down, you may need to add more grommets. Grommet kits are available and easy to use. By using more grommets to tie the tarp, you can spread the pressure a little more evenly and help keep from ripping the tarp in high winds.

Reinforcing Weak Areas

When using a Heavy Duty Tarpaulin regularly, the corners and edges typically experience the most abuse. To maintain their integrity, you can reinforce the corners and edges. You can do this by adding layers of fabric, duct tape, or heavy-duty tarp tape. People may also sew patches of material to areas they are most concerned about. Reinforcing the tarp in any of these methods can extend the life of the tarp and provide better protection in harsh environments.

Adding Windows and Openings

In certain situations, you may desire openings in your tarp. For instance, if you are going to set the tarp up like a tent or awning, you may want a window for light or to allow air flow, or a flap for a door-opening. To add a window, you likely will just cut out a section of the tarp, and sew in a piece of mesh or clear plastic as the window. To add a door or other type of opening, you could use zippers or Velcro strips. These modifications are ideal for living spaces to offer comfort and suitability.

Waterproofing the Tarp Again

You may compromise the waterproof layer if you cut, sew, or change the tarp in any way. The key to maintaining waterproofness is sealing the seams and edges. Look for specific waterproof sprays or sealants that are "designed" for fabric tarps. For plastic tarps, you can use heat-sealed edges or waterproof tape. Doing this would ensure that the tarp offers full protection from the rain.

Printing or Labeling the Tarp

Custom tarps can also be created for business or personal style. You may want to print your company logo, name, or design on your tarp. Some people mark or label their tarps by painting or writing on waterproof markers so they can identify which tarp is for what use. This is crucial for individuals who have multiple tarps for various jobs.

Safety and Final Checks

Once you have taken the time to customize the Tarpaulin Sheet, you should test it out to make sure that it will work as you expect it to in real life. Tie it down, check the edges, and make sure grommets and reinforcements hold tight. Check for any openings to ensure they open and close without leaking. A short testing period can save a lot of headaches later.

Conclusion

A customized tarp is a great way to meet your exact specifications. Choosing the material, cutting it to size, the location of any grommets, the weakest areas, and sealing the edges will provide you with a tarp that will last longer and perform better. You can also even create windows, doors, or designs which makes it even more personal. With a few simple tools and some care, an ordinary tarp can be converted into a solid, dependable cover in almost any scenario.