Choosing Construction Site Tarpaulins

Construction site tarps are heavy-duty covers made from materials like plastic, vinyl, or fabric that are installed on construction locations to protect buildings, materials, and equipment from weather conditions like rain, snow, dust, and debris. Tarps are essential during initial site work like excavation and grading when piles of soil or foundations are exposed.

Benefits of Using Construction Site Tarps

There are several key benefits to using construction site tarps:

Improve Worker Safety

Tarps create a protected space allowing jobs to continue even during inclement weather. They prevent slips from mud or water and shield workers from exposure to the elements which can cause illness or injury. Heavy Duty Tarpaulin sites also control airborne particles that could damage the lungs.

Maintain Quality Standards

If left exposed, weather can cause cracking, staining, or deterioration in building elements like concrete, brick, and siding. Tarpaulins UK ensures finishes meet specifications. Construction site tarps help deliver high-quality, long-lasting results.

Save Money on Repairs

Rather than replacing soaked carpet, drywall, or insulation, properly tarped materials stay serviceable. This avoids budget overruns from weather delays or needing to remedy prematurely damaged elements.

Project Water Management

Large tarps can direct rainwater away from work areas or divert it into containment systems, preventing muddy, hazardous conditions.

Protect Materials and Surfaces

Tarps shield exposed materials like wood, drywall, concrete, and insulation from rain, snow, sun, and wind which can cause warping, swelling or deteriorated structural integrity over time. This keeps a project on schedule without needing to replace damaged components.

Reduce Cleanup Costs

Tarps help contain messy construction zones and control dust, debris, and spills. This minimizes cleanup time and costs at the end of each phase. Without tarps, wind can blow trash outside of work areas, potentially violating EPA regulations.

Choosing the Right Material Type for Your Project

There are several factors to consider when choosing the appropriate construction tarp material:

Weather Conditions

Harsh weather like blowing rain/snow demands vinyl or heavy plastic. Fabric works for milder climates. Rubber tarps withstand all elements.

Project Timeline

Short-term projects may use inexpensive plastic. Vinyl or fabric lasts longer. Rubber designed for permanence.

Material Being Covered

Delicate surfaces under tarps call for breathable fabrics. Heavy loads need reinforced vinyl/rubber.

Budget

Plastic is the most affordable but may need replacement. Mid-range vinyl provides quality at a moderate cost. High-end rubber costs the most.

Types of Construction Site Tarps

There are several main types of tarps used on construction sites, each with their strengths:

Plastic Tarps

Plastic tarps are the most affordable option, available in thicknesses from 4-10 mil. While lightweight, plastic withstands some weather and is good for temporary use. However, it can tear or degrade rapidly with prolonged sun exposure.

Reusable Rubberized Tarps

Heavier tarps made of pliable rubber withstand all weather conditions for the life of a building. While more expensive initially, they can be reused on future job sites for decades of service.

Specialty Tarps

Custom tarps may feature special reinforcements, be flame retardant or LED-lit for lowlight structures. Solar-reflective Lightweight Tarpaulins even help regulate internal building temperatures passively.

Vinyl Tarps

Crafted from reinforced vinyl laminate, these Large Tarpaulins are thicker (12-16 mil) and more durable. Their tear-resistance and strength make them a top choice for construction site tarps. Vinyl withstands sunlight, moisture, and abrasion extremely well without breaking down over the life of a project.

Fabric Tarps

Woven polyester or vinyl-coated fabric tarps are breathable, allowing some airflow while shedding water. This makes them suitable for covering materials and areas where mild drying is still possible. Their water-resistance also withstands heavy rain and snow.