Heat and moisture are two of the most important factors in speeding up the composting process. According to the United States Composting Council, temperatures of 131°F to 150°F are ideal for killing pathogens and breaking down organic materials efficiently.
Choosing the right composting tarpaulin material
When selecting a tarp for composting, two key factors to consider are the material and its breathability. Tarpaulins come in plastic or fabric options with varying permeability:
Fabric weights
Heavier 10-12 oz materials like coated canvas or solution-dyed polypropylene will outlast lighter 8 oz cotton or burlap.
Plastic options
In addition to polyethylene, other breathable plastic films include polypropylene, PVC, and HDPE used for gardening mulches.
Sealable edges
Some tarps have reinforced hems or tie-downs to better secure the edges and prevent heat/moisture loss.
Reinforcements
Fabric tarps can be strengthened with coatings like PVC or PU, or laminated with plastic on the underside for extra water resistance.
UV resistance
Consider materials treated to withstand sun damage like solution-dyed fabrics over natural fibers that may discolor.
Temperature ranges
Plastics are generally rated -30F to 150F, fabrics -10F to 120F depending on thread and treatments.
Size limitations
Heavier duty tarps of 10+ mil plastic or coated canvas may be difficult to install over very large piles.
Care and Storage
Most fabrics can simply be rinsed and air dried, then folded for long-term indoor storage between uses.
Tarp Installation Tips
Proper installation is key to ensuring the tarp fully contains heat and moisture. Some best practices include:
Secure the edges
Bury the bottom edge 6-12 inches deep around the perimeter to anchor it. Use ropes, boards, or stakes above ground to tightly seal all sides.
Install poles or ropes
Erect a basic structure above a large pile of Tarpaulin to prevent sagging in the middle. Use PVC or bamboo poles with guy lines anchored at corners.
Lay smoothly
Avoid wrinkles that can lead to leaks by keeping the fabric taut with weights or by burying excess material. Wrinkles trap cooler air.
Ventilation
Cut or form vents and place them above/below to allow air exchange without compromising coverage. Use zippers for adjustable openings.
Seal seams
Reinspect and reseal edges periodically as materials shift. Use duct tape on plastics, stitching, or utility rope on fabrics.
Stake in the wind
Higher piles are vulnerable to billowing. Add poles and extra staking if windy conditions are expected.
Adjust for size changes
As piles shrink, retighten lines and re-stake edges higher on the pile to maintain coverage.
Insulate pipes/wires
Cover exposed material to prevent damage from compost heat if any pipes or sensors touch the pile.
Tarpaulin sizes for different compost bins or piles
The appropriate size of composting tarpaulin will depend on the type and dimensions of the bins or piles being covered. Some common options include:
Tumbler bins
A 3'x3' tarp is sufficient for most household tumblers up to 3 cubic yards. Larger stationary tumblers may require a 4'x4' tarp.
Pallet bins
For rectangular bin sizes like 4'x4', a 4'x6' clear tarpaulin allows draping over the sides. 5'x7' covers larger commercial bins.
Cinder block bins
Besides surface area, these require extra length to fold down inside the walls. Minimum 5'x5' but 6'x6' allows for more secure anchoring.
Bins on skids
Mobile bins on wheels or skids need tarps slightly larger than the bin to drape over edges for stability during transport or turning.
Material consideration
Heavier fabrics and plastics may require larger sizes to insulate and breathe properly depending on the application and pile contents.
Pile dimensions
Most home piles range 4-6' tall and 3-5' wide, suiting an 8'x8' tarp. Larger professional operations may use piles 10-15' tall and 15-20' wide, necessitating tarps as large as 16'x20'.
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