Tips for Properly Securing Tarpaulins in Windy Conditions

Understanding Tarpaulin Materials

There are a few main types of tarpaulin materials to be aware of when selecting coverings to use in windy conditions:

Polyethylene:

A lightweight, water-resistant plastic that is inexpensive and durable against light weather. However, polyethylene is not as wind-resistant as heavier materials. Best used as a temporary covering.

PVC-Coated Polyester:

Heavier-duty than polyethylene with a thicker PVC coating making it more wind resistant. It remains waterproof but is still susceptible to damage in very strong winds. Commonly used for semi-permanent coverings.

Canvas:

Made of durable cotton or synthetic fabric that is breathable. Offers excellent strength against wind and weathering over long-term use. However, canvas absorbs water more easily than plastic materials. Best for withstanding harsh environments.

Wind Safety Concerns with Tarpaulins

While tarpaulins provide valuable weather protection, high winds pose serious risks if a covering is not thoroughly secured. Loose tarps can be torn, blown away, or damaged during windy conditions:

Effects of Strong Winds

One major concern is the effects of strong winds on an unanchored Tarpaulin. Gusts catch underneath the large surface area, putting pressure on the material and any seams or attachment points. This force increases dramatically with wind speed, often several times more pressure than the tarpaulin is designed to withstand.

Billowing or Flapping

Even a tarpaulin left partially billowing or flapping in breezes faces the potential for harm. The repetitive slapping of the plastic or fabric against the supports itself breaks down the integrity over time. Heavy Duty Tarpaulins UK allowed to flap also produce a loud noise disturbance that some may want to prevent.

Tarpaulin Damage or Removal

To reduce the risk of tarpaulin damage or removal in high winds, it is essential to properly secure coverings with multiple anchor points and tension methods. The wind catching underneath means solid restraint is required on all perimeter edges as well as across the entire surface area.

Best Anchor Points Around Your Property

When evaluating where to secure a tarpaulin, identifying reliable stationary objects to fasten to is key. Here are some of the most common effective anchor options in outdoor settings:

Secure Structures

Secure structures like buildings, sheds, fences, and large equipment provide optimal anchor points. Their permanence and wind resistance allow firmly tying off all sides and corners of the tarpaulin. Use lag bolts or sandbags to further stabilize free edges.

Trees

For large open areas, trees can work well as anchors if sufficiently wide and wind-strong. Only use healthy, stable trees away from the shoreline. Weave straps around the trunk above head height, keeping the tarpaulin lower to reduce leverage force.

Stakes, Poles, or Rebar

If trees are unavailable, consider driven stakes, poles, or rebar pounded securely into the ground. Space them closely around the Tarpaulin perimeter, ideally within 3 feet. Poles should stand at least 5 feet high for tensioning overhead. Angling stakes outward prevents pull-out.

Sandbags or Concrete

As a last resort, heavy-duty sandbags or concrete block anchors laid on the ground may work. However, high winds can pick up loose weights. Reinforce the anchor points with reinforcement stakes driven through the bags/blocks into the soil below.