What Is a Tarpaulin?


What Is a Tarpaulin?

A tarpaulin (also called a tarp) is a large, flexible sheet of strong, water-resistant or waterproof material, commonly made from coated cloth like canvas or synthetic fabrics such as polyethylene, PVC, polyester, polypropylene, and more.It typically includes reinforced grommets along its edges, allowing the tarp to be tied down securely with rope, hooks, or bungee cords.


Types of Tarpaulins


MaterialKey FeaturesCommon Uses
Polyethylene (PE)Lightweight; waterproof; UV‑treated versions last a few years Camping, covering loads, shelter
PVC / VinylVery durable; waterproof, abrasion- and chemical-resistantIndustrial covers, transport, scaffolding
CanvasBreathable when coated; water-resistant but not fully waterproofLight rain, agriculture, traditional use
MeshPermits airflow while blocking wind/debrisShade covers, scaffolding, privacy screens

It typically includes reinforced grommets along its edges, allowing the tarp to be tied down securely with rope, hooks, or bungee cords.

Common Uses

  • Provides weather protection and shelter: used for roofing, debris control on construction sites, and covering boats, machinery, or wood piles .

  • Acts as temporary structures: camping ground sheets, flysheets, charity or military shelters (“basha”) .

  • Serves as transport covers for trucks, goods, and agricultural products .

  • Used in event and advertising: printed tarps for billboards, banners, and scaffolding mesh .

Why Choose the Right Tarp?

  1. Material Suitability

    • PE: affordable and waterproof for light-duty needs.

    • PVC: heavy-duty, resistant to chemicals and harsh weather.

    • Canvas: offers breathability; good for minimizing moisture build-up.

    • Mesh: ideal where wind flow and partial shade are needed.

  2. Durability & Lifespan

    • PVC: lasts ~3–5 years

    • PE: ~1–2 years, unless UV‑treated 

    • Canvas/Oxford: ~2–4 years depending on maintenance

  3. Reinforcements & Features
    Look for grommets, rope channels, flame-retardant treatments, and thickness (mils/oz) for your intended use .

Choosing the Right Tarpaulin

To pick the best tarp:

  • Define the application: camping, construction, transport, shielding, etc.

  • Choose the material to match your needs (waterproofness, weather resistance, strength).

  • Ensure the size, thickness, and reinforcements like grommets align with usage.

  • Consider price versus lifespan, and maintenance requirements.


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