Shopping for a tarp? There is a lot to consider. Tarps protect property from bad weather, keep equipment safe in storage, and much more. They come in many materials; canvas, vinyl, clear vinyl, polyethylene, and mesh and in many sizes, thicknesses, and features like waterproofing and fire resistance. This post answers the most common tarp questions to help you buy with confidence.
Big box stores like Home Depot, Menards, and Harbor Freight carry some tarps, but their selection is mostly basic poly and canvas options. Specialty online sources like TarpsNow.com offer a much wider range of protective options.
Here are some of the most popular Frequently Asked Questions regarding Tarps
Here are answers to the most common questions about tarps, industrial curtains, and tarp accessories.
What are Tarps and Covers used for?
Tarps are made from canvas, vinyl, clear vinyl, polyethylene, and mesh. They cover supplies, equipment, vehicles, sports fields, roofs, and outdoor spaces. Hung vertically, they work as temporary walls, barriers, or curtains.
Clear Vinyl Tarps are popular for porches, patios, decks, and entryways, they protect against rain, wind, snow, and cold while keeping full visibility. Tarps also provide shade, privacy, and shelter for camping, landscaping, and industrial work. Insulated Tarps add cold weather protection. Fire retardant and waterproof options are also available.
Tarps are used across residential, construction, demolition, landscaping, trucking, manufacturing, shipbuilding, oil production, and agriculture.
What materials are Tarps typically made from?
The right material depends on the job. Here is a quick guide:
Vinyl, Polyethylene, or Waterproof Canvas, best for waterproof protection. Poly: lightweight, affordable, and good for general use. Canvas: breathable, great for covering items that need airflow. Mesh: ideal for shade and lightweight coverage. Clear Vinyl or Clear Poly: use when visibility or sunlight is needed.
Always match the material to the application.
What size Tarp do I need?
Choose a tarp that fully covers what you need to protect, but not so large that the extra material becomes a hazard. Loose material can catch wind or get tangled in equipment or people. When in doubt, call us at (888) 800-1383 and our team will help you find the right size.
How do I secure a Tarp or Cover?
Use the grommets built into the edges of your tarp to anchor it to a surface or structure. Attach them with zip ties, bungee cords, rubber straps, hooks, or cord. Use as many grommets as possible and keep the tension even for a secure hold.
Are Tarps Waterproof?
Not all tarps are waterproof. Some are only water resistant. If waterproof protection is what you need, make sure the tarp is labeled "waterproof."
Polyethylene and most vinyl tarps are 100% waterproof. Waterproof Canvas tarps are also available and offer the added benefit of breathability, which helps prevent condensation from building up underneath.
Can I use a Tarp as a temporary shelter or tent?
Yes. Tarps made from polyethylene, waterproof canvas, or vinyl work well as lean-tos, fly tents, and other shelters. A tarp can also be used as an outer layer over an existing tent for extra protection against rain, snow, wind, debris, and pests.
How can I clean and maintain a Tarp?
Install tarps correctly and do not over-tighten them. Too much tension can pull out grommets or damage the fabric. Check your tarps often for wear and fix any issues right away.
To clean, use mild soap and warm water. Some tarps may need special cleaners or protectants, check the care instructions. Rinse well and let the tarp dry fully before storing. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Good care extends the life of your tarp and keeps it working well.
Are there different types of Tarps and Covers for specific purposes?
Yes. Tarps are made from vinyl, clear vinyl, canvas, and polyethylene, each with different strengths. Common specialty features include waterproof, fire retardant, anti-static, insulated, reinforced, and temperature-resistant options. Know what protection you need, then match it to the right tarp. Need help? Call our team at (888) 800-1383.
Can Tarps be customized?
Yes. Many stock tarps can also be ordered in custom sizes. Simple shapes like rectangles and rounds can be ordered through the Custom Tarp Builder app. For more complex shapes, send us a print or diagram. Call (888) 800-1383 for more information.
What is UV ray resistance of Tarps?
Many tarps are treated to resist UV rays. This slows down sun damage and helps the tarp last longer. The shade they provide also protects whatever is underneath from UV exposure.
Are there flame resistant Tarps available?
Yes. Fire retardant and flame resistant tarps are available in polyethylene, vinyl, canvas, and mesh. They meet fire safety standards including NFPA 701, CPAI-84, CAN/ULC S-109-M87, ASTM E-84 (Class A), and California State Fire Marshal guidelines.
What Tarps are the strongest?
The strongest tarp depends on the job. Start by defining what the tarp needs to do, then look for the right type. Thickness and material weight are the key indicators of strength. Thickness is measured in Mils. Material weight is measured in ounces per square yard. Heavier and thicker generally means stronger and more durable.
What colors are Tarps available in?
Color options vary by product. Some tarps come in one color only, like the water-resistant canvas tarp in olive drab. Others offer many choices, the Awning/Marine Canvas Tarp comes in 12 colors and the 18 oz. vinyl tarp comes in eight. Some colors, like orange, serve a safety purpose. Check each product page for available colors.
What is a Grommet?
Grommets are metal rings set into the edges of tarps and curtains. They are used to anchor covers to surfaces or structures with bungee balls, zip ties, cords, rubber straps, or hooks. Use as many grommets as possible and keep the tension even to avoid stress on the fabric. Grommet Kits are available for adding or repairing grommets on any tarp.
What are Heavy Duty Tarps?
Heavy duty tarps are made from vinyl, clear vinyl, Hypalon, neoprene, poly, canvas, mesh, and nylon. They are used across nearly every industry and application.
Heavy duty generally starts at 12 Mil thickness. Thickness varies by material. Poly tarps go up to 24 Mil. Canvas can reach 30 Mil. Hypalon goes up to 35 Mil. Neoprene can reach 40 Mil. Mesh and vinyl can go as thick as 50 Mil for the most demanding uses.
What Tarps are used with Trucks?
Heavy duty truck tarps are made from vinyl, clear vinyl, and mesh. They keep cargo intact, clean, and dry during transit. Many come in a range of colors for safety, branding, or visibility.
Specialty options include flatbed, steel, coil, lumber, machinery, smoke, and refuse transfer trailer tarps. They come with grommets and D-rings for secure tie-down and to prevent flapping in the wind.
How much does a Tarp cost?
Tarp prices range from a few dollars to several thousand, depending on the type, material, features, and size. Think of a tarp as an investment. The protection it provides usually far outweighs the upfront cost.
What if I am not sure what Tarp is best for me?
Not sure where to start? You are not alone. Call us at (888) 800-1383 and our team will help you find the right tarp for your needs.
How do I order a Tarp?
Order at TarpsNow.com by selecting your product and adding it to the cart. Stock sizes are ready to ship. Custom tarps can be ordered through the Custom Tarp Builder app. For unique or complex designs, submit a print or sketch for a manual order.
Tarps Now is your Answer to Tarps, Covers, and Industrial Curtains
Still have questions? We are happy to help. Call us at (888) 800-1383 or email sales@tarpsnow.com. Our team in Michigan is ready to assist with product questions, selection, and ordering.
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