Poly Tarpaulin VS Canvas Tarpaulins, which is better? (2024)

FAQs

Poly Tarpaulin VS Canvas Tarpaulins, which is better? ›

Poly tarps offer versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness, making them a popular choice for many applications. However, if you require specific features such as breathability, exceptional strength, or partial coverage, considering alternatives like canvas, vinyl, or mesh tarps might be more suitable.

In summary, you need to consider all of your requirements in selecting a tarp. If you are dealing with high temperatures (above 250 degrees F), canvas is the best choice. If you require waterproofing, vinyl is your best choice.

- PVC tarpaulin/polyvinyl chloride tarp - Also known as poly vinyl tarps, this type of tarpaulin is a heavy material with UV resistance, durability and high tear strength; made from polyvinyl chloride.

Tarps made mostly of polyethylene are more durable, stronger, and have a more waterproof ability as compared to other types of material like canvas. Nylon ground covers and polyethylene mesh tarps are more lightweight and allow shade from the sun while still being breathable.

In conclusion, the lifespan of a tarp varies depending on the material used, environmental conditions, and maintenance efforts. If durability is your primary concern, vinyl tarps offer exceptional longevity, making them ideal for long-term use.

Vinyl Tarps

Vinyl is a commonly used waterproof tarp material due to its durability and water-resistant properties. Vinyl is available in different thicknesses, ranging from 10oz to 40oz, which affects the weight and cost of the tarp. Vinyl tarps are one of the most heavy-duty and long-lasting options on the market.

Weather Resistance: Poly tarps excel in providing reliable protection against the elements. They are UV resistant, meaning they can withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight without deteriorating. This makes them an excellent choice for outdoor applications where constant exposure to the sun is expected.

Tarp is usually lighter and not coated, while tarpaulin is heavier and often made from canvas or another thick material that's been treated with a waterproof coating.

Dark Colors in Tarps

Black is the preferred tarp color of truckers. Canopies and Tarps offers a full line of black truck tarps. These extra sturdy tarps are designed to protect truck cargo from the sun, strong winds and the elements.

If you want a heavy-duty tarp that will give longer life, consider one with 10-12 mils. Vinyl Coated and Vinyl Laminated Tarps Usually range from 14 Mil all the way up to 40 Mil thick. This is the thickest tarp you can find in the market. Also, you can go for a lightweight one that measures 5-6 mils.

How long do poly tarps last? ›

Tarps made of polyethylene, for instance, can be used outdoors continuously for up to five years. The longevity of the tarp can be considerably shortened by continuous exposure to intense sunshine, harsh temperatures, strong winds, and other environmental variables.

Between polypropylene and polyethylene, polypropylene is considered to be more resistant to chemicals and organic solvents than polyethylene, so it might be a better bet for manufacturing facilities. Polypropylene is also less flexible, so consider your need for a stretchable fabric before deciding between the two.

Polyethylene and vinyl are two of the more durable materials on the market and are waterproof. When choosing a Roofing Tarp, be sure to consider what the material it is made from.

Professional painters think of canvas as an indestructible material–and for good reason. Plastic can tear easily, so it is not a good choice if you intend on covering sharp objects that could puncture the material. There's no need to worry about puncture marks or tears in your canvas drop cloth, however.

Canvas is water resistant but not waterproof. This means that quality canvas is able to resist the penetration of water to some degree under the conditions in which it is likely to be used. Whereas PVC is 100% waterproof. Canvas shrinks because of the cotton while PVC doesn't shrink because of the synthetic fibres.

Nylon bags are also durable, but they're not as tough as canvas bags. They're made from a synthetic material, so they're not as breathable as canvas bags. Nylon however is waterproof and fireproof. So, when it comes to choosing a bag, it really depends on your needs.