Tarp Guide: Types, Uses, and How to Choose

What Is Tarpaulin? A Simple Definition

A tarp (or tarpaulin) is a strong sheet made to protect against wind, rain, and harsh weather conditions. The tarpaulins meaning comes from their original purpose – to shield items from damage. These versatile protective covers serve many purposes, from safeguarding building materials to providing camping shelter.

Types of Tarps

Comparison of Tarp Types

Type	Weight	Waterproof Level	Durability	Best For	Cost
Polyethylene (PE)	Light	Good	Low-Medium	Temporary protection	$
PVC Laminated	Medium	Excellent	High	Regular use in bad weather	$$
Heavy Duty PVC	Heavy	Superior	Very High	Severe weather, valuable materials	$$$
Canvas	Medium-Heavy	Moderate	High	Applications needing breathability	$$-$$$

Polyethylene Tarpaulin

Features:

• Light and affordable
• Blue, green, silver, or white colors
• Blocks water
• Good for temporary use

Polyethylene tarpaulin (PE tarp) is the most common type of tarp. Thicker ones protect better against wind and rain.

PVC Tarpaulin

PVC Laminated:

• Medium weight
• Fully waterproof
• Resists tears
• Stands up to bad weather conditions

Heavy Duty PVC Coated:

• Strongest type of tarp
• Completely waterproof
• Extremely tear-resistant
• Best for severe weather conditions
• Used to protect valuable building materials

Canvas Tarps

Features:

• Natural or mixed fabrics
• Water-resistant
• Breathable
• Traditional look
• Durable

Canvas tarps let air through while still protecting against light wind and rain. They’re heavier than polyethylene tarpaulin but more breathable.

Best Tarps for Different Uses

Camping Applications

Usage Scenario	Recommended Tarp Type	Why It Works
Weekend trips	PE tarps	Lightweight, affordable, adequate for short use
Regular camping	PVC tarps	Better durability for frequent use
Wilderness camping	Canvas tarps	Breathable, natural feel, durable

Canvas tarps allow airflow. Heavy duty PVC tarps offer better protection in severe weather conditions.

Truck Covers

Usage Frequency	Recommended Tarp Type	Benefits
Occasional use	Thick PE tarps	Cost-effective for limited use
Regular use	Heavy duty PVC tarps	Superior durability against road wind and elements

Truck covers face strong wind and rain during travel. PVC lasts longer for regular hauling of building materials.

Emergency Roof Covers

Usage Frequency	Recommended Tarp Type	Benefits
Occasional use	Thick PE tarps	Cost-effective for limited use
Regular use	Heavy duty PVC tarps	Superior durability against road wind and elements

What is tarpaulin’s role here? To keep water out until proper repairs can be made.

Garden Uses

Purpose	Recommended Tarp Type	Advantages
Weed barriers	PE tarps	Affordable, blocks light
Compost covers	Canvas tarps	Breathable while protecting from excess rain
Work areas	PVC tarps	Durable, easy to clean, fully waterproof

The definition of tarpaulin includes these versatile garden uses too.

How to Choose Your Tarp

Consider:

1. Length of use
2. Expected weather conditions
3. Budget
4. Size needed
5. How you’ll secure it

Tarp Care and Maintenance

Care Task	Instructions	Frequency
Cleaning	Use mild soap and water, gentle brush for stubborn dirt	After each use or as needed
Drying	Allow to dry completely before storing	Every time before storage
Storage	Keep in cool, dry place away from direct sunlight	When not in use
Repairs	Patch small tears immediately with repair tape	As soon as damage occurs
Prevention	Avoid water pooling by proper tensioning	During setup

Summary

Now you understand what tarpaulin is and how to choose the right type of tarp. Polyethylene tarpaulin works for short-term needs. Heavy duty PVC tarps handle tough weather conditions. Canvas tarps offer breathability.

The right tarp protects your building materials and other valuables from wind, rain, and sun damage.