Tarp Care: Making Sure Your Tarp Lasts for Years

A tarp is an investment. When you buy one, you want to make sure it lasts as long as possible. If you follow these simple tips and suggestions, you'll find that preserving tarps is an easy process that can help save you time and money in the long run.

Choose the right tarp for the job
Choosing the right tarp for your unique needs can make all the difference when it comes to ensuring that it lasts. Poly tarps are waterproof, making them great for outdoor storage, camping, fixing leaks and other uses. Canvas tarps, on the other hand, are better-suited for indoor uses like covering flooring or protecting surfaces while painting. Vinyl tarps, mesh tarps and other types all have their own unique suggested uses. If you choose the right type of tarp and use it properly, you're sure to see extra years tacked onto your purchase.

Put it away dry
If you're working with canvas tarps, you'll want to make sure that your equipment, like tents,

Dry tarp lasts longer than a wet molded one

firewood, building materials and other items are properly dried before you drape them. While durable canvas tarps are water resistant, they're not 100 percent guarded against mold and mildew accumulation, so you'll want to make sure you properly dry items before covering them with a canvas tarp. Ensuring that your tarp is free of mold and mildew can help guarantee a longer life. If you know you'll want to cover wet or damp items, opt for a waterproof poly tarp.

Preserve the material
Spend a little extra time hand-washing your tarps to make sure that they're put away clean and dry. Removing excess dirt and debris from the surface of your tarpaulin can help it resist mold and mildew accumulation. You can also repair old tarps by sewing up small holes and tears using durable, waterproof thread. Canvas tarps can be treated with a preserving agent at home after its surface has started to see too much wear and tear.