Tarpaulin, frequently just called a tarp, is an extremely flexible waterproof sheeting material with endless purposes both inside and outside. Produced using materials like polyethylene (PE), polyester, or vinyl, tarps give climate obstruction and assurance from components like downpours and sun.
Materials Used to Make Tarpaulin
There are a couple of fundamental materials that tarps are produced using, each with its characteristics:
Polyethylene (PE)
PE Heavy Duty Tarpaulin is waterproof, strong, and impervious to scraped spots. In any case, they are not generally major areas of strength for so many different choices.
Polyester
Tarps constructed from polyester are more expensive than PE but also more durable. They are stronger and can better withstand punctures, abrasion, mildew, and UV damage from sun exposure over time compared to PE.
Vinyl
Vinyl makes for a very lightweight and thin tarp material. However, vinyl tarps are also less stiff and sturdy than PE or polyester. They are better suited for temporary lightweight uses rather than heavy-duty applications.
Cordura
A heavyweight nylon fabric, Cordura tarps are extremely durable and tear-resistant. They are best suited for very heavy uses like construction sites or industrial gear rather than backpacking or camping due to their weight.
Lightweight and Packable
No matter the size, a tarp's lightweight and packable design makes it extremely portable and well-suited for activities like camping, boating, construction work, and more. Its water-resistant properties provide coverage and insulation to keep items or areas shielded from moisture.
Uses for Tarpaulin in Camping
Tarps are one of the most versatile camping essentials, with countless uses to provide coverage, insulation, and improvised shelter solutions in the outdoors. Some common ways tarps are used for camping include:
Emergency Shelter
In a pinch, a tarp can be hung up between trees using ropes to create a basic emergency rain or sun shelter. grommets around the edge of the tarp make hanging it easy.
Groundsheets
Place the Tarpaulin on the ground under a tent for added protection from moisture coming up from the ground or extra insulation. They also prevent direct contact of the tent with possible debris.
Tarps as Rainflies
Stake the edges of the tarp to the ground and secure it overhead on trees/poles to create a covered area protected from rain and sun. Great for covered cooking and gathering areas.
Under Outdoor Furniture
Even a small tarp put underneath chairs or cots prevents dampness from being transferred to seating upholstery after rain.
Ridge-Line Shelters
Using trekking poles or branches as supports, the tarp is secured along a central "ridge line" to form a pitched waterproof roof overhead. Ventilation is provided on the sides, offering more coverage than an emergency shelter.
Uses for Tarpaulin in Boating
Just as tarps are essential camping gear, they are also very commonly used when boating for their waterproof and protective properties. Some applications include:
Trailer Covers
When transporting boats over land on a trailer, a tarp ensures they remain 100% protected from inclement weather and debris.
Dock/Deck Covers
Between uses, keep docked boat decks and electronics like the head unit, radio, battery, and other equipment protected under waterproof tarp covers.
Equipment Covers
Tarps can be used to individually cover oars, life jackets, fishing rods, and other gear stored on board to prevent moisture damage.
Sun Protectors
A tarp makes an effective sunshade when rigged over a cockpit area or other section of a boat docked for the day.
Makeshift Bimini Tops
Supported by poles, tarps serve as portable awnings over the bow or stern for sun or rain protection on days on the water.
Boat Covers
Whether on a sailboat, motorboat, canoe, or kayak, a properly fitted plastic tarpaulin can protect the entire vessel from rain, sun exposure, bird droppings, and other environmental damages when not in use.
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