At Midrand Tarp & Tent, we take pride in providing high-quality tarpaulins, tautliners, and covers designed to meet the diverse needs of our customers. Whether you are looking for industrial-grade protection, agricultural applications, or everyday use, understanding the different types of tarpaulins is essential to making the right choice.
WHAT IS A TARPAULIN AND WHAT ARE THEY USED FOR?
Tarpaulin (or tarp) is a large sheet of strong, flexible, water-resistant, or waterproof material, often made from plastic, canvas, or vinyl. Tarpaulins are widely used in industries such as construction, agriculture, transport, sport, and camping for protection against the elements, covering equipment, and temporary shelters. They are essential for protecting goods from sun, rain, wind, and dust, making them indispensable in various applications.
TARPAULIN VS. COVER VS. TAUTLINER: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
- Tarpaulin: A general term for a protective sheet used to cover objects, available in multiple materials and sizes.
- Cover: A broad term that includes tarpaulins but may also refer to specialized covers for vehicles, machinery, or structures.
- Tautliner: A specific type of truck curtain used in the transport industry. It consists of a flexible but strong PVC cover attached to a truck’s frame, allowing for easy side-loading, and unloading.
PVC, POLYETHYLENE, AND CANVAS TARPAULINS: UNDERSTANDING THE MATERIALS
- PVC Tarpaulins – Made from polyvinyl chloride, these tarps are strong, durable, waterproof, and UV-resistant. They are ideal for heavy-duty industrial use, truck covers, and long-term outdoor applications.
- Polyethylene (PE) Tarpaulins – Lightweight, waterproof, and cost-effective, these tarps are often used for temporary shelters, construction, and farming purposes.
- Canvas Tarpaulins – Made from heavy-duty woven fabric, canvas tarps are breathable, durable, and water-resistant. They are commonly used in agricultural and outdoor settings where airflow is necessary.
WHAT ARE HEAVY-DUTY TARPAULINS AND WHEN SHOULD YOU USE ONE?
Heavy-duty tarpaulins are thick, reinforced, and built to withstand harsh weather conditions. They are ideal for applications that require long-term durability and high resistance to wear and tear, such as:
- Truck covers and tautliners
- Construction site protection
- Agricultural storage and equipment covers
- Industrial-grade waterproofing
- Cricket pitch and sport field covers
WHAT SIZES DO TARPAULINS COME IN?
Tarpaulins come in a wide range of sizes, from small 2m x 2m sheets for personal use to large industrial-sized covers exceeding 20m in length. Custom sizes are also available at Midrand Tarp & Tent to meet specific needs.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A TARPAULIN?
Quality
Quality should always be a top priority when choosing a tarpaulin. Investing in a high-quality tarp ensures longevity and durability, preventing frequent replacements. The key factors in determining quality include:
- Material thickness and type – Look for strong, durable materials like PVC with reinforced base cloth.
- Manufacturing process – Ensure proper welding and stitching techniques are used for durability.
Size and Ease of Use
Choosing the right size is crucial for efficiency. Opt for custom-sized tarps if necessary and consider weight for ease of handling. Eyelets for secure attachment can enhance usability.
Colour
While colour may seem like a minor factor, some colours are more resistant to fading under prolonged sun exposure. Longer-lasting colours include blue, black, grey, dark earth, and beige.
Customer Service and Sales Experience
A good purchasing experience includes clear communication about options, warranties, and after-sales service, prompt and professional customer support, and high-quality materials certification.
CONCLUSION
Choosing the right tarpaulin depends on material, durability, and intended use. At Midrand Tarp & Tent, we offer premium-quality tarpaulins to suit a variety of applications. Contact us today for expert advice and the best solutions for your covering needs!