A Guide to Tarp Materials: Polyethylene, Canvas and Vinyl Tarps

Some questions we often hear at A1 Tarps are "What is tarp cloth made of?" and "Are all tarps made of the same fabric?" These are good questions, and the experts at A1 Tarps have put together this guide to help you better understand all there is to know about tarp materials.

First, not all tarps are made of the same thing. In fact, tarps are made from many kinds of materials. However, the most common tarp materials are polyethylene (or "poly" for short), vinyl and canvas, so we will focus on those. Knowing more about the strengths of each material, should make it easier for you to decide which is right for your needs.

Common Tarp Materials: Poly, Vinyl and Canvas

• Polyethylene Tarps - We're beginning with poly tarps because they are the most versatile and are used for a wide range of purposes. Polyethylene is a kind of plastic. A1 Tarps' poly tarps are lightweight while also being made from three-ply material, so they're durable. They are also waterproof as well as rot-proof, and they offer 100% UV protection.
• Vinyl Tarps - PVC vinyl tarps are also made from plastic (polyvinyl chloride plastic, hence the "PVC"). In addition to having the benefits of poly tarps, vinyl tarps have the added benefits of being even stronger and more durable, while providing protection from some hazardous chemicals. Because of these characteristics, they are often used as industrial tarps in factory or warehouse settings.
• Canvas Tarps - Our canvas tarps are made of cotton - a natural fiber, unlike plastic. That means that when it comes to tarps, canvas is the more breathable choice. Our canvas tarps are resistant to water, as well as mildew and UV rays, but they are not technically waterproof.

Based on this information, you can see how the different types of tarps might best fit different situations. For example, if you wanted to provide waterproof protection to a piece of equipment at your business or a vehicle at your home, which would be the best choice? Probably a poly tarp.

However, if you need to cover construction machinery under more extreme conditions, such as in a factory with chemical exposures, a vinyl tarp might be the better choice. And if you want to provide breathable protection for bushes or hedges in your yard, you might choose a canvas tarp.

Additional Considerations When Choosing a Tarp

In addition to the tarp material itself, there are some other factors to consider when choosing a tarp. For example, did you know there is such a thing as mesh tarps? At A1 Tarps, you can find mesh tarps that feature an open weave to let fresh air and some sunlight through, so while they are made of man-made materials, they are also breathable.

In addition, there are tarp characteristics like size, color and weight to consider. Maybe you've decided you want a poly tarp, but you need it to be a bright color for high visibility; to measure 6' x 8' (or 5.5' x 7.5' once hemmed); and to qualify as a heavy-duty tarp (that is, a tarp with a higher weave count, mil thickness and weight). Can you find a tarp that fits all those specifications?

At A1 Tarps you can, because of the wide variety of options we offer. Whether you've decided a poly tarp, vinyl tarp or canvas tarp is right for you, find the exact right one to fit your needs here, or reach out to our experts with questions.