Tarp Supply Inc. ® Tarps Buying Guide

Essential Guide For Buying Tarp

Tarp Supply Inc.® is your one-stop destination for high-quality tarps. Whether it's for heavy-duty industrial use, outdoor activities, or home projects, our comprehensive guide helps you find the perfect tarp that stands the test of time.

We understand there are many different types of tarps and materials out there, and our guide dives into the importance of material strength, weather resistance, and durability to ensure your next tarp purchase is your best one.

What are the most popular tarp materials?

Polyethylene Tarps

Polyethylene, or poly tarps, are perhaps the most common and versatile type of tarp. They are made from a plastic-based material, making them waterproof and resistant to most acids, alkalis, and oils. These tarps are ideal for everyday uses like covering vehicles, outdoor furniture, and as a base for camping. They come in a range of colors and thicknesses, with the blue poly tarp being the most recognized.

Canvas Tarps

Canvas tarps offer a more breathable option compared to poly tarps. Made from cotton or a cotton blend, these tarps allow air to circulate while still providing excellent protection against the elements. They are often used in industrial settings, for outdoor painting, or as covers for equipment that need a bit of ventilation. They are also popular in camping for their natural feel and durability.

Vinyl Tarps

Vinyl tarps are the heavy-duty cousins in the tarp family. They are incredibly durable, resistant to tear, water, and UV rays, making them suitable for long-term or intense applications. These tarps are often used in construction, trucking, and agricultural sectors. Their robust nature also makes them suitable for use as pond liners, gym floor covers, or in any situation where a strong, long-lasting cover is needed.

Mesh Tarps

Mesh tarps differ from their solid counterparts in that they are permeable. These tarps are excellent for applications where you need airflow, like covering a truckload of plants or for use on a canopy to provide shade while allowing a breeze to pass through. They also work well for privacy screens in residential settings.

Insulated Tarps

A more specialized type, insulated tarps, are used primarily in construction. They help maintain a consistent temperature, which is crucial in some building applications like concrete curing or protecting sensitive materials from extreme temperatures. These tarps are padded with foam or similar materials, providing a barrier against cold or heat.

Fire Retardant Tarps

Safety is paramount in certain environments, and this is where fire retardant tarps come in. These are engineered to withstand ignition and decelerate the propagation of fire. They are commonly used in industrial settings, at campsites, or in any situation where a fire-resistant cover is required for safety compliance.

Custom Tarps

Custom tarps are specialized covers designed to meet specific requirements for protection, covering, and utility purposes. Unlike standard tarps, custom tarps are tailored to fit exact dimensions and specifications, ensuring a precise fit for unique items or spaces. They are often made from high-quality, durable materials like polyethylene, canvas, or vinyl. Tarp Supply Inc. offers a highly personalized service where customers can have their tarps customized with a variety of accessories to meet their specific needs. This customization includes the addition of zippers, which can enhance the functionality of the tarp by providing easy access points. Velcro attachments are also available, offering a convenient and adjustable method of securing the tarp. Additionally, a range of hardware options can be incorporated into the design of the tarp, ensuring that the final product is perfectly tailored to the customer's requirements. Whether for industrial, commercial, or personal use, Tarp Supply Inc. is dedicated to delivering a custom tarp solution that effectively fulfills the desired outcome. These tarps are ideal for a variety of applications, including industrial, agricultural, recreational, and residential uses. Whether it's for covering machinery, creating a custom vehicle cover, or providing shelter in outdoor settings, custom tarps offer a versatile solution that can be adapted to a wide range of needs.

Custom Tarps Materials and Colors Guide

Waterproof Tarps

Waterproof tarps are versatile and highly functional protective sheets widely used in various settings for their exceptional water-resistant properties. Made from materials such as polyethylene or PVC, these tarps offer robust protection against rain, snow, and damp conditions. Their applications are diverse, ranging from outdoor camping and roofing to safeguarding equipment and supplies in construction sites. Waterproof tarps are valued for their durability, resistance to tearing and abrasions, and ability to withstand exposure to harsh weather conditions. They often come in various sizes and colors, with grommets or eyelets for easy securing, making them an indispensable tool for both commercial and personal use.

Water Resistant Tarps

Water-resistant tarps are highly versatile and practical coverings made from materials like polyethylene, canvas, or coated vinyl, which offer significant resistance to water. These tarps are engineered to repel water, making them ideal for outdoor applications like camping, roofing, boating, or as protective covers for vehicles and equipment. Their water-resistant nature ensures that whatever is underneath remains dry and protected from rain, snow, or damp conditions. Additionally, these tarps often feature reinforced corners and edges, along with grommets for easy securing, enhancing their durability and effectiveness in various weather conditions. Their lightweight yet strong design makes them a popular choice for both residential and commercial uses, where protection from moisture is essential.

Clear Tarps

Clear tarps are highly favored among our customers due to their versatility and can be customized to meet specific requirements. They are mostly made from transparent polyethylene or vinyl, which gives them a unique and versatile role in covering and protecting various objects while still allowing visibility and light penetration. These tarps are commonly used in outdoor applications such as on patios, greenhouses, or during construction to shield areas from the elements like rain, wind, and dirt, yet permit natural light to pass through. Their durability and resistance to tearing and water make them ideal for both temporary and long-term usage. Additionally, clear tarps are often utilized in market stalls or outdoor events to provide shelter without obstructing views. Their transparency is not only practical for maintaining visibility but also adds an aesthetic element, blending seamlessly with the environment.

How to Select the Best Tarp?

Say goodbye to guesswork! Our guide illuminates key features like UV protection, waterproofing, and grommet spacing, ensuring you choose a tarp that meets your specific needs and lasts longer.

What factors to consider when purchasing a tarp?

Size: The size of the tarp is crucial. It should be large enough to cover the intended area or item completely. Measure the space or item you need to cover before purchasing to ensure you get a tarp of the right size. Remember, it's often better to have a tarp that is slightly larger than needed than one that is too small.

Cut Size - The hems of the cut size tarp are then folded in and stitched to create a sturdy, reinforced side results tarp size end up slightly smaller than the original size.

Approximate Finished Size - Tarps that are made to exact size measured.

Material: Tarps are made from various materials, each with its own set of characteristics. Common materials include polyethylene, canvas, and vinyl. Polyethylene tarps are lightweight and affordable, making them suitable for light-duty use. Canvas tarps are more durable and breathable, ideal for covering machinery or use in construction. Vinyl tarps are waterproof and suitable for heavy-duty applications.

Thickness and Strength: The thickness of a tarp, usually measured in mils (1/1000th of an inch), is a key indicator of its strength and durability. A thicker tarp is generally more durable and better suited for heavy-duty or long-term use. The strength of the material also determines how well the tarp will hold up under stress and weather conditions.

UV Protection: If you plan to use the tarp outdoors for an extended period, consider a tarp with UV protection. Exposure to sunlight can degrade many materials over time. Tarps with UV protection are treated to resist this degradation, making them last longer when exposed to the sun.

Grommets and Reinforcements: Grommets are the metal rings found along the edges of tarps. They are crucial for securing the tarp. Look for tarps with grommets that are evenly spaced and reinforced to prevent tearing. Reinforced corners and edges add to the tarp's durability, especially if it will be tied down or subjected to stress.

Color and Visibility: Tarps come in various colors. The choice of color can be important depending on the use. For example, a bright color like orange or yellow is highly visible and suitable for safety-related applications. Darker colors might be more appropriate for camping or outdoor activities where you want the tarp to blend in with the surroundings.

Waterproof vs Water-Resistant: It's important to understand the difference between waterproof and water-resistant tarps. Waterproof tarps provide complete protection against water, making them ideal for situations where moisture must be completely blocked out. Water-resistant tarps can resist water penetration to a degree but are not completely impervious to water. Choose based on the specific usage for your tarp.

Price: Lastly, consider your budget. The price of tarps can vary widely based on size, material, and quality. While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that a higher-quality tarp may be more cost-effective in the long run due to its durability and longevity.

How Our Tarps Stand Up to the Test

Witness the resilience and versatility of our tarps through interactive demonstrations and real-life use cases. This is why Tarp Supply Inc. is the trusted choice for professionals and homeowners alike.

 Tarps Applications From Customers

 

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