When you need a tarp to withstand bad weather, not all tarps are created equally. In extreme conditions where the rain pours, wind blows, sun shines, or snow piles – the proper construction can help. Here are the important things to consider when choosing a high-quality, Waterproof Tarpaulin for difficult conditions.

1. High-Strength Material

The first thing to look for is the material. High-quality tarps are made of strong materials like woven polyethylene or heavy-duty PVC. These materials resist stretching, ripping, and tearing.  Fabrics that are thicker and woven closely help the tarp maintain shape and not weaken over use.

2. Waterproof Coating 

A waterproof coating is necessary. It seals small holes in between threads to stop water from coming through. Good coatings might be PVC, polyethylene, or other materials that repel water. This prevents the tarp from becoming waterlogged in a downpour. 

3. UV Protection 

Sunlight, and particularly UV rays, is capable of breaking down many materials over time. A quality tarpaulin for harsh environments will contain UV stabilizers in either the coating or the fabric. This protects the tarp and protects the items it covers from the sun. UV resistance will help the material to remain strong and prevent fading or cracking.

4. Reinforced Edges

Edges are the most vulnerable spots on a tarp because they are under constant stress and tension. The best tarps have reinforced hems or edges that are double-folded. The needed reinforcement will add to the tarp’s longevity, so the corners and edges do not tear when the tarp is under tension. 

5. Strong Stitching

Good stitching is another essential feature. Quality Clear Tarpaulin sheets will have double stitching or even triple stitching along their seams. The extra stitches mean that if one of the rows fails, the others will hold. These stitches help maintain the integrity of all components of the tarp, whether tied down tight or under heavy loads.

6. Strong Grommomets

Grommets are nylon or metal rings that are used to tie down a Clear Tarpaulin. In higher wind conditions, grommets at weak corners will rip. Top tarps have stronger grommets that are evenly spaced and stitched along reinforced edges of the tarp. This allows you to hold the tarp more firmly and distribute the load to another part of the tarp, avoiding ripping.

7. Tear Strength

Tear strength is important for a tarp in harsh conditions. This is a combination of strong fibers, a tight weave, and material that you can stretch. When a tear happens, these tarps help distribute the load across the fabric instead of ripping the hole bigger. The tear strength helps make sure the tarp lasts under stress.

8. Temperature Flexibility

Severe weather typically means hot weather in summer (and super cold in winter). An excellent waterproof tarp must remain flexible in extreme temperatures. Heat-resistant materials are used to prevent melting or sagging, and cold-resistant materials prevent the tarp from cracking or becoming brittle at cold temperatures—the materials prevent fabrics from failing to function no matter the season.

9. Mold and Mildew Resistance

Warm conditions with moisture can contribute to the presence of “mold” or “mildew” on fabric. Tarpaulins, especially high-end tarpaulins, may feature anti-microbial or anti-fungal treatments in the coating to limit mold growth. Mold growth will inherently weaken fabric and can damage whatever is underneath the tarps.

10. Weight Balance

While strength is an important consideration for tarps, a very heavy tarp is inconvenient to carry and install. Quality tarps achieve a good balance between weight and durability. Using lightweight but strong materials means the tarp is easier to manage while still providing the same level of protection. This will improve the practicality of erecting and taking down the tarp.

11. Easy Watershedding

A well-designed surface can create an environment that will facilitate the runoff of water on the surface of a tarp. Tarps with a smooth, slick coating will allow rainwater to glide off the surface as opposed to pooling on the tarp. Water that collects on a tarp increases the amount of stress and weight on the tarp and also increases the chances of the tarp tearing. A tarp that sheds water easily will lessen all of those chances.

12. Compact Storage and Foldability

Since a tarp must remain practical for use in the worst conditions, it will also need to be able to be stored easily. Quality tarps will be easily folded or rolled without damaging the tarp or the material coating (if present). In this regard, you will be able to store your tarps neatly if not in use, while quickly deploying a tarp when you need some protection. Read This

Final Thoughts

When you’re looking for waterproof tarps for extreme use, you’ll want to be on the lookout for these best features. It is important to always use a high-strength material, a waterproof coating, and reinforced edges to help keep your tarp strong. Then include good stitching patterns, flexible materials, mold and rot resistance, and smart design, and you essentially have a strong shield against not only rain but also wind, sunlight, and other extreme elements. A tarp built in this manner will protect and preserve your outdoor items, no matter the conditions.