Tuesday, November 28, 2023

Tarpaulin for Protecting Your Car and Outdoor Furniture

There are several types of materials that are commonly used to make Tarpaulin Sheet covers for cars and outdoor furniture. Each has its own pros and cons depending on your specific needs and budget.

PVC-coated Polyester Tarpaulin

The PVC-coated polyester tarpaulin is a popular waterproof option that provides good protection from rain, snow, dust, and UV rays. The PVC coating makes the material waterproof and durable while still allowing some airflow. It is a tougher fabric that can withstand wind and weather. However, it is on the heavier and more rigid side which may not be ideal for tightly covered vehicles with many curves.

Vinyl-coated Polyester Tarpaulin

Similar to PVC-coated vinyl the material is slightly more flexible and lightweight. It is waterproof but may not be quite as rigid and long-lasting as PVC. Vinyl-coated polyester is a good mid-range option that provides protection without being too heavy.

Heavy-duty Canvas Tarpaulin Natural canvas has a rugged and durable construction ideal for withstanding weather over many seasons. It is breathable to reduce heat buildup and allows some moisture evaporation. Canvas may fade more quickly over time from sun exposure but is a popular choice for furniture due to its attractive natural look.

Let me know if you would like me to expand on any part of this first section or move on to the next before continuing the post.

PVC-coated Polyester Tarpaulin

PVC-coated polyester tarpaulin is a very popular choice for protective covers because it provides excellent waterproof and UV-resistant properties at an affordable price point.

PVC-coated Canvas Tarpaulin can withstand continuous exposure to rain, snow, humidity, dust, and sun without degradation for several years. Some manufacturers even offer warranties of 5 years or more.

The polyester fabric core offers durability while maintaining breathability for airflow. It is then coated with a layer of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) on both sides to make it completely waterproof.

The rigid PVC makes it better able to hold its shape against wind gusts compared to vinyl alternatives. However, the thickness also means it may not conform as tightly over vehicles with many curves and edges without some effort.

Tarp manufacturer Tyvek uses a PVC coating approximately 10 mils (0.010 inches) thick on its automobile covers. Independent testing shows it can resist over 25 gallons of water per square yard per day. The reinforced weave of 600D polyester fabric underneath provides tear resistance.

Vinyl-coated Polyester Tarpaulin

Similar to PVC in waterproofing function, vinyl polymer coating gives tarps a softer, more flexible feel. At around 4-6 mils thick, vinyl tarps are significantly thinner than PVC for enhanced breathability and conformability.

While vinyl doesn't last quite as long under continuous UV exposure, major companies like Classic Accessories rate their vinyl-coated polytarps as durable enough to protect vehicles and equipment for 3-5 years of general use with proper care. The lightweight material makes it easier to reliably cover irregular or intricate vehicle profiles without sagging or creating ballooned areas.

Here's a more expanded comparison of PVC-coated and vinyl-coated polyester tarpaulin materials:

MaterialPVC-Coated PolyesterVinyl-Coated Polyester
ThicknessApproximately 10 mil (0.010 in) thick coatingAround 4-6 mil thick coating
WeightHeavier due to thicker PVC layerLighter weight with thinner vinyl layer
DurabilityRated 5+ years against UV rays and continuous weatherRated 3-5 years under general use & weathering
Water ResistanceWithstands over 25 gal/sq yd per day of water in testsProvides a strong waterproof barrier but is not as robust as PVC
RigidityStiffer material that holds shape well in the windMore flexible material that conforms over curves more easily
BreathabilityModerate airflow through the fabric coreBetter breathability due to thinner vinyl layer
ConformabilityMay require more effort to fit tightly over vehiclesForms smoothly over contours without air pockets
WrinklingCan wrinkle more over time in storageMaintains smoother surface longer when folded

PVC-coated tarps are ideal for withstanding long-term UV exposure and inclement weather conditions with their extra-thick waterproof barrier. However, vinyl tarps provide the benefits of enhanced breathability, flexibility, and smooth coverage ability, especially for vehicle wraps.

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