What is tarpaulin
Tarpaulin is a heavy-duty material made from fabrics coated with tar or plastic. It has the following key characteristics:
- Material: Traditionally made from canvas or jute coated with tar or asphalt to make it waterproof. Now commonly made from plastic like polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
- Appearance: Tarps range in color but are generally a flat, non-reflective material. They are flexible but thicker and heavier-duty than lightweight plastic sheeting.
- Weather Resistance: The laminated plastic or tar coating provides excellent protection from water, sunshine and other environmental elements. Tarpaulins are durable and long-lasting.
- Uses: Common uses include covering objects to protect from rain/sun like boats, vehicles, construction materials; making temporary shelters; covering piles of dirt, mulch or other bulk materials.
- Advantages: Inexpensive, tough and easy to transport and install. Provides excellent weather protection for outdoor storage and uses. Come in variety of sizes.
- Thickness: Range from lightweight 6-8 ounce tarpaulins to thicker 12-16 ounce tarps better suited for heavier duty applications or longer term uses.
- Securing: Typically feature grommets, ties or rope channels around the edge to tie down securely over objects. Can also be tightly rolled and secured with ties.
So in summary, tarpaulin is a heavy-duty waterproof fabric used to protect a variety of materials and objects from weather damage outdoors or during transport.
