A playset tarpaulin, also commonly called a playset tarp or play equipment tarp, is a durable, weather-resistant Tarpaulin designed specifically to cover and protect outdoor playsets, swings, slides, and other play structures. Playset tarps are often made from woven polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) fabrics resistant to UV rays, mold, and moisture.
Benefits of using a playset tarpaulin
There are several key benefits to using a properly fitted tarp to cover and protect outdoor playsets:
Weather protection
Tarps shield playsets from rain, snow, ice, hail, and other forms of precipitation that can damage wood and metals over time. This extends the life of the playset.
UV protection
The UV-resistant fabrics used in playset tarps block the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays from fading colors and causing the playset surfaces to crack or rot prematurely.
Season extension
With a Tarpaulin Sheet in place, a playset can be used and enjoyed even during rainy or snowy weather. This allows kids to keep playing outside instead of being cooped up indoors.
Easy maintenance
Tarped playsets stay cleaner by preventing debris like leaves, pollen, dirt, and other messes from collecting on surfaces. No more power washing or scrapping is needed each season!
Pest deterrence
Snugly installed tarps prevent spiders, ants, and other annoying insects from nesting in playset nooks and crannies.
Simplified storage
Rather than fully dismantling a bulky playset for winter, a tarp allows easy folding and wrapping for compact storage or transport with just a few ties.
When should I use a playset tarpaulin?
There are a few common scenarios when it makes the most sense to utilize a playset tarpaulin:
During off-season storage months
In many climates, playsets are left exposed to harsh winter weather from November through March. A tarp protects the playset during this inactive time from snow, ice, freezing rain, and temperature fluctuations that can split or warp wood.
Rainy weather periods
Even in spring, summer, and fall, there will be those gloomy days when it's pouring outside. With a Canvas Tarpaulin, kids can still climb, slide, and swing without getting drenched. This allows for play to continue seamlessly through light precipitation.
Seasonal debris periods
During spring thaw and fall leaf drop times, pollen blankets and leaves pile up quickly on uncovered playsets. A daily or weekly tarping cuts way down on the resulting mess that would otherwise require intensive cleaning.
Temporary coverage for repairs
If a playset needs to be power washed, painted, or have components repaired/replaced, it's easiest to do so under a protective tarp without risking drips or spatters damaging surrounding areas.
Rental property playset
For landlords with playsets on residential rental properties, regularly installing and removing a seasonal tarp keeps the equipment protected yet accessible from one tenant to the next with minimal effort.
How to measure for the right size playset tarpaulin
Proper measuring is critical for selecting a playset tarpaulin that will provide adequate coverage without extra slack. Here are the key factors to consider when taking measurements:
Length and width
Use a measuring tape to record the exact footprint dimensions (length x width) of the top roof area of the playset. Be sure to measure corner to corner.
Height
Note any additional height around the sides of the playset from the ground up. This ensures the tarp extends below tall edge beams.
Slide/ramp dimensions
If slides or integrated climbing walls exist, measure how far they extend beyond the main playset roof edge.
Hem/zipper allowance
Most experts recommend adding 6-12 inches all around to the length and width measurements. This provides enough material for attachment hems and zipper overlap.
Standard sizes
Compare your playset measurements to standard pre-cut Clear Tarpaulin sizes like 10x10 feet, 12x12, 15x15, and so on. Round up to the next largest if close.
Tie points
Consider extra length/width if the tarp needs to be tied directly to certain obstacle points like monkey bars far from the roof.
Wind resistance
Larger tarps with extra material allow for better tensioning against gusts. But avoid excess fabric that could flap/catch dangerously.
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