The Ultimate Guide to Tarp Materials, Sizes, Strengths, and Real-World Use Cases
Tarps are some of the most useful and versatile products available for protecting equipment, covering work areas, controlling sunlight, and managing outdoor conditions. This guide explains tarp materials, strengths, UV protection, waterproofing, sizing, and how to select the right heavy-duty tarp for any project.
Whether you need poly tarps, canvas tarps, mesh tarps, vinyl tarps, or a specialty material, this page provides clear explanations to help you make the right choice.
Tarps Plus has supplied tarps nationwide for more than 25 years. We focus on durable materials, accurate specifications, strong UV resistance, and dependable long-term performance. Use this page to compare options and understand which tarp is best for your application.
1. What Tarps Are Made Of
Tarps come in several different materials, each designed for specific strengths and uses.
Poly Tarps
Made from woven polyethylene with a waterproof laminated coating. Poly tarps are lightweight, waterproof, UV-treated, and suitable for most general outdoor uses.
Browse poly tarps:
https://www.tarpsplus.com/collections/poly-tarps
Canvas Tarps
Canvas tarps are breathable and durable. They reduce condensation and protect tools, lumber, machinery, and sensitive equipment.
Tarps Plus offers two canvas categories:
Water-Resistant Canvas Tarps
Repel moisture but allow airflow for reducing sweat and condensation.
https://www.tarpsplus.com/collections/canvas-tarps
Waterproof Canvas Tarps (Treated)
Treated for full waterproofing while maintaining a natural canvas feel. Best for outdoor storage, construction, shipping, and long-term covers.
https://www.tarpsplus.com/collections/gray-waterproof-canvas-tarps
Mesh Tarps
Mesh tarps allow wind and air to pass through while blocking sun and heat. Ideal for shade structures, patios, kennels, agriculture, nurseries, and truck beds.
https://www.tarpsplus.com/collections/mesh-tarps
Vinyl Tarps
Vinyl tarps are industrial-strength, waterproof, UV-resistant, and highly tear-resistant. They are used for trucking, construction, long-term storage, and heavy-duty applications.
https://www.tarpsplus.com/collections/vinyl-tarps
Specialty Tarps
Designed for specific environments or unusual applications.
Examples include:
- Fire retardant tarps
- Clear tarps
- Hay tarps
- Pool tarps
- Valance tarps
- Super heavy-duty tarps
Browse specialty tarps:
https://www.tarpsplus.com/collections
2. Understanding Tarp Thickness and Strength
Mil Thickness
Tarp thickness is measured in mils (1 mil = 1/1000 inch).
Typical range: 5 mil to 20+ mil
Higher mil ratings indicate a thicker, stronger, and more durable tarp.
GSM (Fabric Weight)
GSM measures tarp density. Higher GSM tarps have a tighter weave and greater durability.
Reinforced Hems
Many tarps include rope-lined or double-stitched hems for increased tear resistance.
Grommet Spacing
Tarps Plus uses industry-appropriate grommet spacing for secure tie-downs.
(Exact spacing varies by material; William will verify.)
3. Tarp Colors and Their Uses
Silver/Black Tarps
Maximum sun and heat blocking. Ideal for high-sun environments.
https://www.tarpsplus.com/collections/silver-black-tarps
White Poly Tarps
Provide bright light diffusion and stay cooler underneath.
https://www.tarpsplus.com/collections/white-poly-tarps
Blue Tarps
General-purpose, economical, and widely used.
Green, Brown, and Beige Tarps
Blend with natural environments for landscaping, camping, and outdoor work.
Black Tarps
Provide full shade and consistent light blockage.
4. Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant Tarps
Waterproof Tarps
Waterproof tarps block water completely when secured correctly.
Fully waterproof materials include:
These tarps are recommended for heavy rain, storms, roofing, long-term outdoor storage, and environments requiring a full moisture barrier.
Water-Resistant Tarps
Water-resistant tarps repel light moisture but allow airflow.
Best for equipment that must stay ventilated.
5. Tarp Sizes: Cut Size vs. Finished Size
Many tarps are manufactured as a cut size, meaning the stated size is measured before hemming. Finished size can be slightly smaller after seams and reinforcement.
This matters for roof covers, sports fields, large installations, and equipment covers.
Tarps Plus provides sizing accuracy by category.
(William will confirm exact measurements per product.)
6. Choosing the Right Tarp for Your Application
Roofing and Hurricane Tarps
Use heavy-duty poly tarps or vinyl tarps for emergency repairs and weather protection.
Baseball Field Tarps
Large, reinforced tarps with UV protection and high tear resistance.
Construction Tarps
Poly tarps for temporary use; canvas or vinyl tarps for long-term durability.
Agricultural and Hay Tarps
Designed to protect hay, crops, and farm equipment from moisture and UV damage.
https://www.tarpsplus.com/collections/hay-tarps
Shade Tarps
Mesh tarps for airflow and heat reduction.
Camping and Outdoor Tarps
Poly tarps for ground cover; canvas tarps for breathable long-term use.
Transport Tarps
Vinyl tarps and truck tarps for flatbeds and hauling.
https://www.tarpsplus.com/collections/truck-tarps
7. No-Edge Tarp Canopies vs. Pop-Up Tents
Tarps Plus offers heavy-duty canopy systems built with steel poles, metal fittings, and durable tarps secured with ball bungees.
These No-Edge Tarp Canopies are much stronger than standard scissor-style pop-up tents and are suited for long-term outdoor cover, jobsites, storage, and shade structures.
8. Custom Tarps
Custom tarps can be made in exact sizes using your preferred material and reinforcement options.
Lead times depend on material type and production schedule.
(William will confirm timelines.)
Custom tarps are ideal for specialty equipment, oversized areas, and applications requiring precise fit.
9. Tarp Care and Lifespan
Poly and Vinyl Tarps
- Keep dry when storing
- Avoid pulling directly on grommets
- Protect from sharp edges
Canvas Tarps
- Dry completely before storage
- Prevent mildew
- Re-treat the fabric when necessary
Mesh Tarps
- Remove debris
- Avoid overstretching
Proper care significantly extends tarp lifespan.
10. Tarp FAQ: Quick Answers
Which tarp lasts the longest?
Vinyl tarps.
Which tarp blocks the most heat?
Silver/black tarps.
What is the best tarp for shade?
Mesh tarps.
Do tarps shrink or stretch?
Canvas may shrink slightly.
Poly and vinyl do not shrink.
How do I choose the right tarp?
Match the tarp material to the project: roofing, shade, construction, agriculture, transport, or long-term storage.
Tarps Plus — Supplying Strong, Reliable Tarps for Over 25 Years
Tarps Plus provides dependable tarps for homes, construction, agriculture, sports, transportation, and emergency response. Our products are built for real-world performance with accurate specifications and strong UV protection.
Use this guide to choose the right tarp. For questions or help selecting a product, call a live person at 1-800-838-3057.
