Features to Consider when Buying a Tarp

Today's tarps come with many high-tech advancements, and choosing the right one of your unique needs can be a challenge. Reference this guide when you need to know which features to consider when buying a tarp.

Thickness - Tarps come in a variety of weights, including light-duty, medium-duty and heavy-duty. Choose the one that best matches your job. Tarps range in weight from lighter, easier-to-manage 6-mil tarps to extremely heavy-duty 23-mil tarps that are ideal for super tough jobs.

Size - A huge variety of tarp sizes are available, ranging from small tarps that measure just 5 feet by 7 feet to large tarps that go all the way up to 100 feet by 100 feet. Covering small things like wood piles may require a more compact tarp, while large tarps like RV covers, tarps for home renovation and other uses, may require a wider surface area.

Waterproof - Poly tarps are generally made of 6-ounce, 12-mil polyethylene material that is

Everything stays nice and dry

supremely waterproof. Tarps for camping, covering materials outdoors, fixing leaking roofs and other uses should be fully waterproof. More pliable canvas tarps are water resistant but not 100 percent waterproof, so they're better suited for indoor or temporary outdoor usage.

UV protection - Opt for a UV protective tarp if you're looking for something to block out harmful UV rays. A great choice for canopies, gardening and agriculture and covering cars, boats and RVs, UV tarps will keep your outdoor items free from sun damage.

Fire retardant - Flame resistant tarps can actually help prevent flames from spreading, making them a great choice for camping, car repairs and emergency use. Choose a flame retardant tarp every time you're going to be working with high heat.

Mold and mildew resistant - Choose this feature if you know you're going to be using your tarp in a damp environment, like the basement, garage or outdoors. A mildew and rot resistant tarp will not only last longer, it will also help prevent your items from accumulating mold and mildew themselves.

Color - Tarps come in dozens of unique colors. Tan, camouflage and green tarps are great for landscaping use, while silver and clear tarps are especially well-suited for gardening and agriculture. Versatile white and blue tarps are terrific for a wide variety of applications.