How to Fold and Store Large Waterproof Tarpaulins

Waterproof tarpaulins are very helpful. They can cover a car, cover furniture or act as a shelter when camping. However, when it is big, it can sometimes feel like a huge task to fold and store it. If you do not correctly fold and store then your Tarpaulin can become damaged, take up unnecessary space or even grow mold. By taking the right steps you will keep your tarp safe and ready to use for the next time you need it!

Why Folding and Storing Matters

A tarp that is crumpled up and shoved into a corner won't last long. It may tear, crease or completely rot if it is left damp. Proper folding will help the tarp hold its shape and not take up too much space. Good storage also preserves the waterproof coating of the tarp, allowing it to function well for years.

Cleaning is the First and Easy Step

Cleaning is always the first step. If your tarp is lying with dirt, mud or leaves on it, take the time to brush or wash it off. Definitely use water and a mild soap if you have to. Keeping a dirty tarp folded and stowed will trap grit and dirt along the creases and folds and could very well cause tears in the future.

Once it is washed, let the tarp dry completely. It is important that the tarp is dried fully, even a small amount of moisture can cause mold or mildew once it is folded. It is always best to leave it in the sun or out in a dry place until you can make sure that it is completely dry.

Find a Large Flat Space

Space is a friend when folding a large tarp. Use your driveway, lawn, or even a clean garage floor. Open it up flat so that there are no bumps or wrinkles. This will make it easier to fold and get a nice neat tarp.

Folding the large tarp

1. Start with the edges: First, fold one long side towards the centre of the tarp, then fold the other long side over the first.

2. Repeat the process: Continue folding the tarp in half length-wise until it becomes a size you can manage.

3. Fold the shorter ends: When the tarp is narrow, repeat the process on the shorter ends until it sits as a neat rectangle.

4. Smooth as you fold: Wherever possible, smooth away air pockets and creases as you go. This will help avoid bulky folded areas and allow the tarp to lie flat.

If you are folding a very large tarp, it may help to have another person assist. Working together is much faster, and will not drag the tarp to damage it and scratch or tear it.

Secure the Fold

Once it's folded, you want to ensure the Clear Tarpaulin develops inertia and remains in the folded position. You can use soft rope, bungee cord, or even heavy-duty Velcro straps. Don't use wire or anything pointed or sharp that can cut into the tarp. By folding and tying it down, you can more easily transport it, and it will remain folded when stationary in storage.

Store in a Proper Location

When needing to store the tarp, the space where you will be storing it is equally as important as how you fold it. You want to select a cool, dry area. A low-humidity area is best, but if you carry them far and back to dry them, keeping them in a dry area is most important. You want to avoid putting it in direct sunlight, as UV rays can cause the tarp material to deteriorate over time. Here are some suitable choices for tarps in storage - a shelf in the garage is perfect. A storage bin, or simply a large plastic bag, can also work well.

Keep the tarp off the ground to protect it from moisture or a pest problem. If possible, when storing, either in your home or garage, you could use a box or bin of some kind to keep the material dust-free and bug-free.

Tips for Extra Care

• Never store a tarp when it is still wet.

• Avoid putting heavy objects on it.

• Every so often, check to see that it is still clean and dry.

• For very large tarps or tarpaulins, you may want to roll them instead of folding them to avoid deep creasing.

Final Thoughts

Folding and storing a large Waterproof Tarpaulin is going to take some time, but in the end, it will save you hours in dealing with bigger problems down the road. If you take the time to clean the tarp first, fold it properly, secure it from unraveling, and store it safely, you will prolong its life and will always have a tarp ready for you when you need one, be it for camping, covering equipment from inclement weather, or as a home protection device.