Waterproof cloth, also called “tarpaulin,” is a fragile, waterproof laminated plastic. It has many uses and can be used in different industries. It mainly covers vehicles and goods to protect them from rain and sunlight. At the same time, waterproof cloth is cheap and has a significant market demand compared with other materials.
What is tarpaulin made from?
There are many types of tarpaulin available on that market today. Made from different materials to provide different jobs and protection.
- Canvas
- Jute / Hessian
- Silnylon
- Mesh
- Cotton-Poly
- Polypropylene
- Polyester
- PVC
- Polyethylene
Canvas Tarpaulin
Canvas is a woven material that is robust. Usually given a waterproof wax coating.
With canvas it is a breathable material, which means the fabric can breathe.
Canvas tarpaulins are made from a natural fibers, and are unaffected from high temperatures.
Disadvantages to canvas tarps are they’re only waterproof once treated. Colours can fade and run.
Jute / Hessian Tarpaulin
Jute is a natural material, derived from a “Jute” plant. It is woven into a workable tread. You may have seen jute used for bags or sacks.
Jute tarpaulins are used in the construction industry. Inexpensive and can resist heat (useful for tarmac).
Unfortunately Jute is not waterproof.
Plastic Tarpaulin
Here are different types of plastic tarpaulins:
- Polyethylene Tarpaulin: These tarps are made from polyethene and tend to be much more light, water resistant in addition economical. They are widely utilized in makeshift shelters, ground cover, generic outdoor protection and a host of other residential DIY applications.
- Polypropylene Tarp: Polypropylene tarps less prone to tearing and durable. They are commonly employed for agricultural uses as well construction, and landscaping considering their strength and ability to resist UV.
- PVC Tarpaulin: PVC Tarpaulin is made of polyvinyl chloride which makes them weigh a bit more and sound very sturdy. Best For: Industrial, Truck Tarp Covers and Pond & Reservoir Liners.
- Vinyl Tarp: This is a tarp made of stronger, waterproof and more flexible Vinyl Because its weather-resistant and durable is another reason why it is used for truck covers, industrial curtains,outdoor events cover.
- Silnylon Tarpaulin: Silnylon Tarp are lightweight, packable and waterproof design of a Silnylon (silicone nylon) tarp. Campers and backpackers like them because of their portability, and add resistance.
Because each type harnesses its own set of properties, the plastic tarpaulin covers can perform in various weather and climate conditions to offer durable use across applications.
Key Tarpaulin Specifications
Tarpaulin GSM (Grams per Square Meter) is a crucial measure indicating the weight and thickness of the tarp. Higher GSM values mean thicker, more durable tarps.
Common Uses of Tarpaulin Sheets
Tarpaulins are used in a multitude of settings:
- Construction Sites: Protecting materials and equipment from weather.
- Agriculture: Covering crops and machinery.
- Camping: Ground sheets and rain covers.
- Transportation: Covering goods during transport.
Waterproof cloth is needed in many industries and fields because it is durable, widely used, cheap, and easy to clean.
Features and Types of Tarpaulin:
Materials:
- Polyethylene (PE): Lightweight, waterproof, and cost-effective. Commonly used for general purposes.
- Canvas: Made from cotton or polyester, it’s durable, breathable, and suitable for heavy-duty applications.
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Heavy-duty, waterproof, and UV resistant. Ideal for industrial and long-term outdoor use.
Sizes and Thickness:
- Sizes: Available in a wide range of sizes, from small sheets for personal use to large covers for industrial applications.
- Thickness: Measured in mils (thousandths of an inch) or grams per square meter (GSM). Thicker tarps offer better durability and protection.
Features:
- Grommets: Metal or reinforced holes along the edges for easy attachment and securing with ropes or bungee cords.
- Reinforced Edges: Strengthened edges to prevent tearing and extend the lifespan of the tarp.
- UV Resistance: Special coatings to protect against ultraviolet rays, preventing degradation over time.
- Fire Retardant: Some tarps are treated to resist ignition and slow the spread of flames, making them safer for certain applications.
How to Buy Tarpaulin Sheet? (Weight, Thickness, Uv, Size, Color)
When you go to buy tarps, pay keen attention to the specifications. This ensures you get the right tarp for your needs.
Weight
Check the weight specification (listed in grams per square meter) because it is a durability measure. This is important when choosing between different tarps of the same brand.
Thickness
The thickness is indicated in millimeters varying from 0.1 to 0.5 mm. The thicker the tarpaulin, the more strength. Use thicker tarps in your heavy-duty applications.
UV
Note also whether your tarp is UV stabilized. If the tarp is not UV resistant, it may degrade quickly.
Size
When you’re buying a tarp, the size, and area should indicate coverage for the application.
Color
The tarps come in a wide range of colors to suit your needs. They don’t conform to any standard. You can find a great color that goes with your needs. For example, you want a tent for your general light works. In this case, you can go for blue, green, and brown colors. If you’re leading a crew working outdoors, go for yellow, orange, and red. Choose white and silver tarps if you want to shelter from the sun.
There are different types of tarpaulins. The most common ones are PVC tarpaulins, PE tarpaulins, tarpaulin rolls, etc. These are custom tarpaulins. The manufacture of these tarpaulins requires manufacturers to meet environmental protection, safety and non-toxic requirements.