When you are buying tarpaulins, there are several details you need to be aware of concerning the fabric of the tarps. The lingo is very specific and if you do not understand it, you might end up with a tarpaulin that is not the kind that you want.

The most obvious choice to make when buying a tarp is whether to look at canvas tarps or poly ethylene tarps. Canvas tarps are generally made of some natural fiber, such as 100% cotton canvas. Poly tarps are made of a manmade material that is strong and flexible.

When you are buying a poly tarp, it is important to consider how many plies the tarp material has. Even the most economical tarpaulin should have at least a 3 ply construction. The poly material should also be woven to make it tougher.

One of the precise measurements of tarp materials is the ounce per square yard figures. Good low-cost blue tarps might have as low as 3 ounces per square yard. A medium tarp would have maybe 4 ounces per square yard. A more heavy duty poly tarp would have more like 6 ounces per square yard. For cotton canvas tarps, look for weights of about 12 ounces per square yard. While a heavier tarp is usually more durable, there may be times when you want a lighter weight tarpaulin.

To make tarps waterproof or water resistant, they are given some sort of coating. The best choice for canvas tarps are those that have wax processed into them. Poly tarps should have a coating up to 30 microns, whether they are economical blue tarps or heavy duty silver tarps. U.V. treatment is a must if the tarp will be used in strong sunlight.

With poly tarps, the thickness is a big factor. Thickness in poly tarps is measured in mils. An economy tarp will have a thickness of about 6 mils, while a medium grade tarp will be more like 9 mils. If you want a very heavy duty tarp, such as boat tarps or silver tarps for roofing, you might find 12 mil tarps more suitable.

The mesh count is a measure of how tightly woven the poly tarp is. Just as a high thread count tells a story about the quality of a set of bed linens, mesh count explains a lot about the class of tarpaulins. You will find that good economy blue tarps have mesh counts of about 8 by 10. Medium tarps are not much different, at 10 by 10. The biggest difference is in the heavy duty tarps. They should be something like 14 by 14.

Understanding the fabric of which tarps are made helps you when it comes time to buy. Use everything you know to make the best purchase to meet your specific needs. One tarp may be the best for one job, while another may be better for another. Knowing the fabric specifications will help you to decide.



Contributed By: Robert Page

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