The Complete Guide to Tarpaulins: Protecting Your Valuables from the Elements

Tarpaulins are an essential tool for protecting your belongings from the elements. Whether you're covering a boat, a car, or a stack of firewood, a tarpaulin will keep your property dry and safe. But with so many different tarpaulins on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you.

This comprehensive guide will help you choose the perfect tarpaulin for your needs. We'll cover everything from materials to sizes to features, so you can make an informed decision.

Materials

Tarpaulins are made from a variety of materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common materials are:

• Polyethylene (PE): PE tarpaulins are the most affordable and lightweight option. They are also waterproof and tear-resistant, but they can be damaged by UV rays.
• Polypropylene (PP): PP tarpaulins are more durable than PE tarpaulins and are resistant to UV rays. They are also waterproof and tear-resistant, but they are more expensive than PE tarpaulins.
• Canvas: Canvas tarpaulins are the most durable option, but they are also the most expensive. They are waterproof, tear-resistant, and UV-resistant, and they can last for many years.

Sizes

Tarpaulins come in a variety of sizes, so you can choose one that is the right fit for your needs. The most common sizes are:

• 10' x 10': This size is perfect for covering small boats, cars, or stacks of firewood.
• 12' x 12': This size is perfect for covering larger boats, RVs, or trailers.
• 15' x 15': This size is perfect for covering large boats, RVs, or trailers, or for creating a temporary shelter.
• 20' x 20': This size is perfect for covering large boats, RVs, or trailers, or for creating a large temporary shelter.

Features

Tarpaulins can come with a variety of features, such as:

• Eyelets: Eyelets are metal rings that are sewn into the tarpaulin. They allow you to tie the tarpaulin down to a secure object, such as a tree or a fence post.
• Reinforced edges: Reinforced edges help to prevent the tarpaulin from tearing.
• UV protection: UV protection helps to protect the tarpaulin from damage caused by the sun's rays.
• Flame retardancy: Flame retardancy helps to prevent the tarpaulin from catching fire.

Choosing the Right Tarpaulin

When choosing a tarpaulin, it is important to consider the following factors:

• The size of the object you need to cover
• The material the tarpaulin is made from
• The features the tarpaulin has
• The price of the tarpaulin

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks for using tarpaulins:

• Use the right size tarpaulin. A tarpaulin that is too small will not provide adequate protection, while a tarpaulin that is too large will be difficult to handle.
• Secure the tarpaulin properly. Use ropes or bungee cords to tie the tarpaulin down to a secure object. This will prevent the tarpaulin from blowing away in the wind.
• Inspect the tarpaulin regularly. Check the tarpaulin for tears or holes. If you find any damage, repair it immediately.
• Store the tarpaulin properly. When the tarpaulin is not in use, store it in a dry place. This will help to prevent the tarpaulin from becoming damaged.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when using tarpaulins:

• Do not use a tarpaulin that is too small. A tarpaulin that is too small will not provide adequate protection for your belongings.
• Do not secure the tarpaulin properly. A tarpaulin that is not properly secured can blow away in the wind, causing damage to your belongings.
• Do not ignore damage to the tarpaulin. If you find any damage to the tarpaulin, repair it immediately. Damage to the tarpaulin can allow water to leak in, which can damage your belongings.
• Do not store the tarpaulin improperly. A tarpaulin that is not stored properly can become damaged. Store the tarpaulin in a dry place when it is not in use.

Pros and Cons of Tarpaulins

Pros:

• Tarpaulins are waterproof, which means they can protect your belongings from the rain and snow.
• Tarpaulins are tear-resistant, which means they can withstand strong winds and other harsh conditions.
• Tarpaulins are UV-resistant, which means they can protect your belongings from the sun's harmful rays.
• Tarpaulins are fire-resistant, which means they can help to protect your belongings from fires.
• Tarpaulins are lightweight and portable, which makes them easy to use and store.

Cons:

• Tarpaulins can be expensive, especially if you need a large or durable tarpaulin.
• Tarpaulins can be difficult to handle, especially if they are large or heavy.
• Tarpaulins can develop tears or holes, which can allow water to leak in and damage your belongings.
• Tarpaulins can become damaged if they are not stored properly.

FAQs

1. What is the best material for a tarpaulin?

The best material for a tarpaulin depends on your needs. If you need a lightweight and affordable tarpaulin, PE is a good option. If you need a more durable tarpaulin, PP or canvas is a better choice.

2. What size tarpaulin do I need?

The size of tarpaulin you need depends on the size of the object you need to cover. Measure the object and add a few feet to each side to allow for overhang.

3. What features should I look for in a tarpaulin?

The features you should look for in a tarpaulin depend on your needs. If you need a tarpaulin that is waterproof, tear-resistant, and UV-resistant, look for a tarpaulin that has these features.

4. How do I secure a tarpaulin?

The best way to secure a tarpaulin is to use ropes or bungee cords. Tie the ropes or bungee cords to the tarpaulin and then tie the other end to a secure object, such as a tree or a fence post.

5. How do I store a tarpaulin?

When storing a tarpaulin, it is important to keep it in a dry place. This will help to prevent the tarpaulin from becoming damaged.

6. How do I clean a tarpaulin?

To clean a tarpaulin, use a mild detergent and water. Rinse the tarpaulin thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before storing it.

Conclusion

Tarpaulins are a versatile and essential tool for protecting your belongings from the elements. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you can choose the perfect tarpaulin for your needs and ensure that your belongings are protected from the rain, snow, wind, and sun.

Helpful Tables

Table 1: Tarpaulin Materials

Table 2: Tarpaulin Sizes

Table 3: Tarpaulin Features