What types of tarps are there?

Tarp, short for tarpaulin, is a durable and stretchable fabric perfect for creating shelter for yourself or the elements. Most tarps are waterproof, making them ideal fabrics for makeshift tents or our durable bags. The main classification system for different styles of tarps is material configuration or performance category. The tarp is one of our recommended fabric choices when it comes to designing and building durable suitcases because of its durability, versatility, and ease of cleaning.

There are three main types of tarpaulins:
1. Polyethylene is the most common plastic in the world and is used to make "Polycarp". Polycarp - in turn, the most common type of tarp for consumers - is usually a mesh woven sheet between two polyethylene sheets. The popularity of this tarp stems from the myriad choices of colors, sizes, and thicknesses. The thickness of polytarp is measured in mils (1/1000 of an inch) and can be varied by the amount of polyethylene reinforcement sheet added in production. Polycarp is disposable but can be reused.

2. The canvas tarpaulin is designed to be reusable, waterproof, mildewproof, and flame retardant. One of the most everyday uses of canvas tarps is to cover indoor or outdoor furniture or carpets during painting or construction. Canvas tarps are heavy enough to stay in place and are smoother than polyethylene tarps, which reduces slippage and movement. Canvas tarps are ideal for building shelter from sun, rain, and wind. While canvas tarps are waterproof, they are not waterproof and if there is a lot of water standing on the tarps, there may be some leakage.

3. Vinyl tarps are industrial-strength and heavy-duty. Vinyl is the second most used plastic in the world after polyethylene. These tarps are used for long-term protection from wind, water, tears, and extreme heat or cold. Vinyl tarps are made from natural materials, making them very affordable and recyclable, while maintaining a durability standard that canvas or polyethylene tarps cannot. Vinyl tarps are ideal for suitcases for outdoor use because of their durability against the elements and their ease of cleaning.