What Makes a Tarp Heavy Duty?
It is one thing to read in a catalog description that a tarpaulin is a heavy duty one. It is quite another thing entirely to be given the specifications that prove it is really that type. Before you buy a tarp that will not live up to your demands, learn what to expect in a strong duty tarp.
Strong tarps have a high mesh count. 14 by 14 mesh count would be considered as a strong tarp. A more loosely woven tarp would work for some applications, but if you want to get a tarp that will last for a long time, look for one of these dense weaves. Lower priced blue poly tarps are also very popular because they are less costly and there tends to be a much wider variety of sizes.
For poly tarps, look for the number of plies in the tarp material. 3 ply tarps are stronger and will not tear as easily as a poly tarp with less plies. The thickness is also measured in mils for poly tarps. If you want a strong tarp, you should expect a 12 mil thickness. Boat tarps and other types of tarps hold up better if they are thicker.
The ounce per square yard measurement is important in tarps, but it will be different if you are purchasing poly tarps than if you are buying canvas tarps. Strong tarps made of polyethylene are considered to be heavy duty at around 6 ounces per square yard. If you are looking for durable canvas tarps, you should be able to find tarps with about 12 ounces per square yard.
Poly rope stitched into the hem makes green tarps, blue tarps, orange tarps, yellow tarps, silver tarps, white tarps, and clear tarps more heavy and durable. This allows you to tie down tightly without worrying about putting too much pressure on the edge.This reinforced area helps extend the life of the tarp.
Some companies will be very vague in their catalog descriptions. Therefore, it is up to you to look at all the factors that have to do with tarp construction. Before you accept tarps as being heavy duty, make sure they stack up to the figures you know are right. If a company is actually selling you the best, they will not be shy about explaining all of the specifications. as already mentioned most heavy duty tarps weigh in at around 6 oz per square yard if a tarp is less weight than this it would not be regarded as a heavy duty tarp.
About the Author
Bob Page has worked in the poly tarps industry for over twenty years and during this time has gained a wealth of knowledge of the tarpaulins community.Bob can be reached on 239 919 2923 or email bob@tarps-togo.com http://www.tarps-togo.com
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