Tarpaulins are sheets made from natural or synthetic fibers meant for protecting valuable goods from the elements while in storage or transport. The tarpaulin to be used depends on the challenges they will face, the nature of the goods, and other custom requirements. While everyone is familiar with canvas tarpaulins and tarps made from PVC or HDPE used to cover everything from construction materials to steel, industrial products, minerals, and agricultural produce, there are quite a few types of tarps made for special applications. A brief overview of the some of the main ones:
Mesh Tarpaulins
The construction of mesh tarps specifically allows the passage of air, moisture, and sunlight. The most common uses of mesh tarps include containing debris, covering trucks carrying lightweight materials, covering sand, gravel, and construction materials being carried on trucks, protecting plants in nurseries, and as pool covers. While the size of the perforations in the tarp limits the extent of the passage of sunlight, the material used to manufacture mesh tarps plays a vital role in blocking UV radiation. While polypropylene mesh tarps can block up to 95% of UV rays, polythene mesh tarps can block up to 90%. However, vinyl mesh tarps can only block up to 55% of the UV radiation. Mesh tarps have a lower wind resistance due to the holes present in the weave and are perfect for covering things that do not need protection from rain and the sun.
Clear PVC Tarps
Clear tarpaulin covers made from PVC filaments allow the unfettered passage of light. While they are waterproof and can withstand strong winds, you can see through them. The typical applications of clear PVC tarps include covering doors to stop the cold winds during winter or decks or patios as the temperature dips. The tarp is strong and durable due to its thickness and flexibility and makes for a good buy for use in backyards.
Rip-Stop Tarpaulins
One of the main issues users face transporting goods with points or sharp edges is that the tarps get damaged soon and start to tear. Rip-stop tarpaulins are specifically constructed to prevent snagging and ripping. The synthetic material used in its manufacture combines the benefits of both cotton and polyester. They are waterproof yet breathable and tear-resistant. Rip-stop tarps do not allow moisture to accumulate, and are, therefore, less prone to rotting.
Vinyl Tarps
Vinyl tarpaulins are typically polythene tarps coated with a vinyl layer to increase their strength and resistance to tearing. Because they can withstand severe weather conditions like heavy rain, snow, and extremes of temperature, they find widespread application in industrial use. Vinyl tarpaulins are thicker and heavier than other tarps and according to Engineering 360, possess higher resistance to abrasion, corrosive acids and greases, and even mildew.
Conclusion
Tarpaulins with special characteristics and construction become necessary when you need them to perform well under demanding circumstances. Because of their special characteristics, they tend to cost more than conventional canvas or PVC tarps, but more than make up the additional cost with their performance and durability. You can even order these tarps with extra resistance to corrosion and fire if you need additional protection.