The age of the tarpaulin should be a major consideration when choosing the right tarpaulin for your needs. You could spend hundreds of dollars. For that kind of money, you want years of use. Here’s a general guide that can help answer “how long do canvas tarps last”.
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Tarpaulin Materials and Uses
Different tarpaulins have different intended uses and thicknesses.
Canvas Tarpaulin
Canvas tarpaulin can be treated or not. Processed cotton canvas is a popular choice for people looking to cover the cargo, tools, and supplies found on construction sites and farms. Since cotton canvas is smeared with oil and wax, it can stain the car’s lining, making it unsuitable for vehicle covers. Oil and wax treatments help control mold growth and repel water.
Untreated tarpaulins are not water repellent and should not be used outdoors when wet. Natural cotton fibers are durable and can last for years, but if they start to tear, they need to be repaired as soon as possible.
Clear PVC Tarpaulin
Clear PVC tarpaulin is intended for use as curtains. The thin material allows light to enter and people can see through. The material is waterproof and wind-resistant, which makes it a popular choice when closing doors in winter or extending the use of a covered deck or patio as it gets colder. The 20 mils thickness does help them last a long time.
Iron Horse Polyester Tarpaulin
Iron Horse Polyester Tarpaulin is designed to last. They are waterproof and stronger than canvas. This does not mean that these tarps are indestructible. They can tear if you don’t take care of them properly. With proper care, you will get several years of use from this tarp.
Net Tarpaulin
Safety netting sheeting is available in a variety of materials and is designed to be breathable while blocking some of the sun’s UV rays. The vinyl-coated color net doesn’t block out as much as 55 percent of the sun’s rays. Polyethylene sheeting is made of polyethylene mesh and blocks nearly 90 percent of the sun’s rays. Polypropylene mesh offers maximum protection from the sun with up to 95 percent UV protection.
These tarps are designed to allow air in while keeping debris contained. They make great pool covers or covers for trucks carrying light items like explosive wood shavings.
Plastic Sheeting
Tarpaulins can be designed for light or heavy use. Blue poly tarpaulin is the tarp you will often see in discount stores. It is only 4 miles thick and doesn’t tend to last very long if used or cared for incorrectly. Heavy duty plastic sheeting designed to last longer use for pool tarps
Vinyl Tarpaulin
Vinyl tarpaulin is a poly tarpaulin that has been coated, laminated, or forged with vinyl. Because it is designed for industrial use, it is strong and tear resistant. Expect these tarps to last several years in severe conditions such as heat, heavy rain or snow, or cold temperatures.