A tarp, or tarpaulin, is a huge sheet of fire-resistant and water-resistant material or cloth made using polyester, polyethylene, or canvas. Tarps are available in different types and serve different purposes.
Noting that a tarp’s lifespan depends on how you look after it; owners should avoid keeping them wet and dirty, as it reduces their lifespan. Tarp maintenance is relatively easy, but you must know the type of tarp cleaners to use and how it needs to be cleaned to properly care for them.
In addition to cleaning your tarps, it’s important to take care to also inspect all your tarps. Rips or tears that will defeat its purpose. A damaged tarp is useless, as it lets water, chemicals, dirt, dust, pests and sunlight through, thus not giving you the needed protection. Below we discuss how to look after your tarps:
Repair Tears and Rips
Tarp owners should study them properly to detect rips or tears after washing and drying them. A tarp repair tape or a patch that can be applied using Tarp Glue is ideal for repairing such issues, thus saving you much later. However, you should ensure you treat the repair on canvas tarps to keep water out.
Replace Broken Grommets
Tarps that lack grommets are ineffective and should be replaced immediately. Tarp owners might require tin snips to replace old grommets using tarp grommet kits, thus improving performance. Mesh, canvas, or poly tapes can also be used to fix new grommets, especially if the hole is frayed. Grommets are often made of quality materials like brass or steel, and function on canvas tarps, vinyl tarps and poly tarps, as they are very easy to use.
Fold and Store after Cleaning
Regular cleaning and maintenance are not enough to keep your tarp in the best condition, as you must also store it properly. Tarps should be folded half lengthwise after any needed repairs are made to maintain its effectiveness.
This material should be put into a plastic container to keep it free from mice. Remember, mice and other rodents will chew your tarps, and owners will end up with huge holes that are hard to repair.
Use Correctly
Homeowners should ensure they buy the best clear tarp for their needs to ensure it serves the right purpose. For instance, using an untreated tarp in wet conditions or mesh tarps to preserve wood during winter is not advisable.
It will help to buy the right size to ensure it suits your needs. Avoid using tarps for the wrong reason, as it shortens their lifespan, thus affecting you financially.
Fire Retardant Tarps
Remember, a canvas tarp should not be cleaned using starch or bleach, especially if treated using a fire-retardant agent. Fire retardant tarps should be cleaned carefully in soft water for accurate results.
The detergent in use should also be fragrance-free and gentle, and it should be mixed with warm water. The tarp should be folded and stored immediately after drying for a long lifespan.
Poly Tarps
PVC poly tarps are easy to clean; you only need mild soap and water. Various soaps are ideal for cleaning them, and they eliminate grime from the tarps. Owners should apply a soap solution and use a soft sponge to remove the grime and dirt.
These tarps should be rinsed appropriately after washing and drying on a cloth line for a longer lifespan.
Untreated Canvas Tarps
Being one of the easiest to clean, Untreated Canvas Tarps owners can put them in a washing machine and include gentle laundry for accurate results. Remember, you must ensure your tarp is completely dry before storage to avoid unwanted maintenance costs later.
Which are the Most Common Types of Tarps?
As stated above, tarps occur in different types, making it hard to choose the most suitable. However, homeowners should first research to determine the most suitable tarp design. Below we discuss the most common types of tarps.
Mesh Tarps
Mesh Tarps are made using breathable materials that allow sunlight and air passage. These tarps have grommets on the edges, which enable users to tie them well. They also feature double-stitched hems and are available in different sizes and colors.
Mesh tarps block harmful UV rays and have tiny holes between the fabrics. These tarps are used to contain debris, make pool covers, and protect plants in nurseries.
Canvas Tarps
Canvas is a robust and heavy material incorporated with a wax coating to maintain effectiveness. These tarps are made using high-quality materials that facilitate light and air passage.
Treated Canvas Tarps are ideal, as they resist mildew, water, and harmful UV rays. These tarps protect furniture, as ground covers, and in various agricultural applications.
Poly Tarps
Poly Tarps are made using polyethylene, a common plastic material. These tarps can be made using heavy or low-density forms, which are common in households. These tarps are perfect for covering items placed under the sun and are made using high-quality materials, thus a longer lifespan.
However, poly tarps should not cover materials that require breathability because their particles lack enough space to facilitate air passage. These tarps are lightweight, cheap, and have a long lifespan, thus their increased popularity.
Poly tarps are used as temporary shelter, to safeguard gyms floorings, and as truck bed liners.
Vinyl Tarps
These tarps are coated, laminated, and tempered using vinyl. They have high strength and are tear-resistant, making them ideal for industrial use. Vinyl Tarps are thicker than other designs and are used in an awning and emergencies, as they are weather resistant.
Heavy-Duty Tarps
These tarps are coverings put outdoors to provide shelter to stationery items. Heavy Duty Tarps might cover machinery, hay, boats, or furniture; some use a patio.
Truck Tarps
Truck Tarps are used to protect and cover loads on trucks during transportation. Certain tarps are made for specific load types, like hauling tarps, and others safeguard loads from a certain type of damage.
Lumber Tarps
Lumber Tarps are the most common for trucks and haulers. These tarps cover different loads and are mainly made using vinyl. The main difference between lumber tarps and steel tarps is their size.
Final Thoughts
Tarps are becoming increasingly common, and it is hard not to see why. These items have existed for a long time and are available in different types. The above article has discussed how to look after them, and you can reach out for more information.