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Plastic Tarps have many different names and are often referred to as poly tarps or tarpaulins. Comprised of high-density polyethylene or HDPE, plastic tarps are manufactured using thermoplastic polymer sheets that are woven and then laminated. The polyethylene sheets are derived from petroleum and not only have a high tensile strength but can also withstand higher temperatures than that of most other outdoor fabrics. The plastic tarpaulin has become the primary choice for outdoor covers due of the fact that it is UV treated, lightweight, waterproof and inexpensive. The polyethylene fabric is not only durable but also naturally resistant to mold, rot and mildew. Furthermore, ant-oxidants are added throughout the manufacturing process to prevent polymer derogation such as cracking.
Plastic tarps have many uses and can be found in just about every industry and household around the world. Available in an array of colors including silver, white, red, yellow, orange, green and tan, the plastic tarp is the preferred cover for outdoor canopy tents and carports. The clear tarp is the is also made of polyethylene and is commonly used by the agricultural and farming community for greenhouse coverage. Plastic tarpaulins can vary in fabric thickness and are categorized in classes of light-duty, heavy-duty and super heavy-duty.
The light-duty plastic tarp is considered a multi-purpose cover for temporary coverage. Waterproof and UV treated, the light-duty tarpaulin is usually blue in color with grommets spaced every 3 feet apart. General specifications for the blue plastic tarp include 4 mils in thickness, 4.5 ounces per square yard with an 08 x 10 weave count. The blue plastic poly tarp is ideal for quick coverage and has become a necessity for use in camping situations. More recently the blue plastic tarp has been used in emergency response situations such as hurricane recovery. The inexpensive fabric was the focal point in recue operations during the 2005 aftermath of hurricane Katrina. The blue plastic tarp was used as temporary roof coverage and widely distributed by government agencies such as FEMA.
The standard heavy-duty plastic tarp is generally 12 mils in thickness, 6 ounces per square yard with a 12 x 14 weave count and grommets every 18 inches. Available in several colors, the heavy-duty tarp is what is commonly used for outdoor canopy structures. The durable plastic material such as the silver tarp, is rated at a two year life expectancy and is considerably less expensive than traditional canvas or vinyl fabrics. Variations of the heavy-duty tarp are available for frame structures such as the valance overhang edge. The valance tarp is comprised of the same material but features additional fabric that is designed to overhang around the frame edge for better protection and a more sophisticated look.
The super heavy-duty plastic tarp is the newest addition to the tarpaulin world. As the demand for poly tarps continues to grow, manufactures have found the need to develop an even stronger material for use in tropical environments and for use in industrial applications. The super heavy-duty tarp specifications include a fabric that is 14 mils in thickness, 8.5 ounces per square yard with a 14 x 14 weave count. The grommets are still spaced every 18 inches apart with reinforced corner guards but the material itself is noticeably more durable than that of the standard heavy-duty tarp. The super heavy-duty plastic tarp has become a favorite among farmers for hay coverage as well as on construction sites for use as scaffolding drops and erosion control.
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