Choosing the Right Tarpaulin Material
When it comes to protecting your deck, patio, or walkway from the elements, a tarpaulin is a practical and affordable solution. However, with different Clear Tarpaulin materials available, choosing the right one can seem overwhelming. This section will break down the pros and cons of common tarpaulin materials to help you select the best option for your needs.
Polyethylene Tarpaulin
Polyethylene tarpaulin is a popular choice thanks to its lightweight and outstanding water resistance. As a plastic material, it is highly durable and withstands weathering very well over time. Polyethylene tarps retain their flexibility in cold temperatures down to 0°F and are resistant to tearing. They are also very affordable, making them a budget-friendly choice.
Vinyl Tarpaulin
For extra strength and longevity, vinyl tarpaulin provides a sturdier waterproof barrier. Made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), this thermoplastic material forms a thick, flexible sheet that can stand up to more wear and tear. Vinyl tarps are more puncture and tear-resistant than polyethylene. They maintain their shape over the life of the installation with little risk of sagging. However, the extra durability comes at a higher price point compared to polyethylene. Vinyl is also less flexible in cold weather.
Canvas Tarpaulin
If you prefer a more natural woven look, canvas tarpaulin can be a stylish choice. Heavyweight canvas is very durable and allows moisture to breathe out to prevent mold growth and waterlogging. For outdoor use, canvas requires pre-treatment with a waterproofing or water-resistant coating. This adds an extra costly step to the installation process. It also requires reapplication every 1-3 years to maintain its protection.
Installing with Grommets
For many tarpaulin materials like vinyl and canvas, anchoring with grommets around the perimeter edge provides an adjustable solution. This section will outline the steps:
Space Grommets Evenly
For most applications, 6 to 12 inches between each grommet is sufficient. Denser spacing may be needed for very large tarps or wind-prone areas.
Start Installation at a Corner
Bring the two edges together and feed rope or bungee cord through opposite corner grommets. This gives you something to pull against as you work around the perimeter.
Pull the Tarpaulin Tight as Installing
With each successive grommet added, pull firmly to remove any slack or wrinkles forming beneath. A smooth, tensioned surface is ideal.
Secure Grommets to Ground
As grommets are looped through, immediately stake the ropes to the ground leaving 4-6 inches of slack. Drive stakes at an angle away from the house.
Attachment Options
To prevent movement and billowing in the wind, anchoring the Tarpaulin Sheet securely is essential. Several effective attachment methods are depending on the material, the surface below, and individual needs:
Sandbags:
Place sandbags along the bottom edge so their weight holds the tarpaulin flat. Use an even 3-5 sandbags per 8 feet. Cover bags with a fabric sleeve for a neater appearance.
Gravel boards:
Sturdy landscape boards elevate the tarpaulin slightly while adding ballast along the bottom. The gravel-filled space deters potential moisture pooling underneath.
Decorative Pot Weights:
Unglazed ceramic or terra cotta pots filled with sand, gravel, or concrete tucked under hems provide visual appeal with function.
Stakes:
For more temporary uses like covering firewood or gardening supplies, stakes can be pounded through grommets into the ground for tensioning.
Hardware Cloth:
Stapling or nailing galvanized hardware cloth screening or 1⁄4-inch chicken wire underneath is a discreet way to provide structure. It divides the space into small sections to reduce potential flapping.
Grommets:
Evenly-spaced grommets around the perimeter edge are a simple and adjustable option. Loop rope, tie-downs, or bungee cords through for tensioning. This method allows for easy removal during seasons of non-use.
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