Choosing the right tarp supplies can make or break your project. Whether you're gearing up for a camping trip, protecting valuable equipment, or tackling a construction job, the quality of your tarp matters. Brix Tarps offers a wide range of heavy duty tarps for sale, designed to meet various needs and withstand tough conditions.
You'll want to know what to look for before making your purchase. This article will be your compass as we navigate through the essential factors to consider when choosing the perfect tarp for your needs, from material durability and size options to water resistance and price points. We'll also explore what tarps are used for and highlight the benefits of heavy duty UV resistant tarps. Armed with this knowledge, you'll be ready to select the perfect tarp supplies for your specific requirements.
Consider the Material and Durability
Selecting the right tarp supplies starts with understanding the materials and their durability. Brix Tarps boasts an extensive array of options, guaranteeing a tailored solution for your unique needs. Let's explore the key factors that determine tarp quality and longevity.
Polyethylene Tarp Material
Polyethylene tarps are versatile and affordable. These tarps are meticulously crafted from a sturdy woven polyethylene terephthalate (PET) mesh or scrim base, and then further reinforced with a protective layer of either polyethylene or PVC film laminate, delivering exceptional durability and weather resistance. These tarps range from lightweight to heavy-duty. They stand as a testament to the fusion of practicality and economic viability. Their multifaceted nature, ranging from lightweight to heavy-duty options, coupled with their cost-effectiveness and durability, establishes them as an indispensable asset across a multitude of applications.
Thickness and Weight
Tarp thickness is measured in mils, a unit representing a thousandth of an inch, with even a slight increase in mil count translating to a noticeable boost in durability and performance. Lightweight tarps are typically 5 to 6 mils thick, while heavy-duty options can range from 10 to 20 mils. Weight, measured in ounces per square yard, serves as another reliable indicator of a tarp's quality. It's worth noting that vinyl tarps, known for their robust nature, tend to be significantly heavier—often two to three times more—than their lighter or medium-weight poly counterparts.
A heavier tarp typically signifies a tighter weave and thicker threads in its scrim, making it inherently more robust and resistant to wear and tear. At Brix, you have a wide variety of options for tarp thickness that you can consider to suit any type of need you might have, ranging from 5 mil all the way to 22 mil super duty.
UV Resistance
For tarps exposed to the elements, UV resistance is a must-have. Most tarps undergo special coatings that act like sunscreen, shielding them from the sun's harmful rays and extending their lifespan. The inherent qualities of the poly and vinyl coatings used on many tarps provide a trifecta of protection: they're naturally waterproof, resistant to mildew growth, and resistant to rot, ensuring these tarps can brave even the harshest outdoor elements with confidence.
Evaluate Size and Coverage
Choosing the perfect tarp size boils down to precise measurements. For flat surfaces, simply grab your measuring tape and note the length and width of the area you need to cover. When it comes to 3D objects, things get a bit more interesting. Start by measuring the top surface, then visualize how far down the sides you want the tarp to hang – that's your "drape." Add twice this measurement to both the length and width dimensions to guarantee sufficient coverage. This approach ensures a snug fit and complete protection, regardless of the object's shape or size.
Standard vs. Custom Sizes
Brix Tarps offers a variety of standard sizes, including convenient options like 6x8 feet, 10x12 feet, and 20x30 feet, catering to common needs. These can be convenient if they match your needs. However, don't limit yourself to these options. Custom tarps are available for precise fits, ensuring maximum protection for your belongings.
It's crucial to note that pre-made poly tarps use "cut sizes." The finished tarp is typically 4-5% smaller than the ordered size. When ordering stock poly tarps, choose a size slightly larger than needed. For custom vinyl tarps, order the exact size required, but remember they're handmade and might vary by an inch.
Grommet Spacing
Grommets, metal rings along the tarp edges, allow for secure fastening. Higher-grade tarps usually have grommets spaced about 18 inches apart, while lower grades may have spacing up to 36 inches.
When ordering, specify the number of grommets for each edge. The system calculates approximate spacing, but some variation may occur. Corner grommets are typically set one inch from the tarp's edge. For precise positioning, provide a diagram showing exact grommet placements.
Remember, grommets are only useful if you have anchor points. Align them with your tie-down locations for optimal functionality. For high-wind applications, like utility trailers, request more grommets to distribute the load evenly.
Assess Water Resistance and Treatment
Brix Tarps provides a variety of tarps with varying levels of water protection, ranging from completely waterproof to water-resistant, ensuring you find the perfect match for your specific requirements. Waterproof tarps provide complete protection from moisture, even when submerged. They're ideal for heavy rain or snow. Water-resistant tarps, on the other hand, repel water for a limited time. They're suitable for light rain but may leak in torrential downpours.
Breathability Factors
Breathability is crucial for certain applications. It's measured by the moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR), which indicates how quickly moisture passes through fabric. Water-resistant tarps often offer better breathability than waterproof ones. This can help prevent condensation buildup underneath the tarp, which is especially important for long-term storage.
In cold weather, breathability becomes more complex. As moisture moves from your body through insulation layers, it can condense and freeze before reaching the outer tarp layer. This is why it's important to consider the entire system, not just the outer layer, when choosing tarp supplies for cold weather use.
Remember, the right choice depends on your specific needs. Brix Tarps' range includes options for various conditions, ensuring you'll find the perfect balance of water resistance and breathability for your project.
Compare Prices and Quality
When budgeting for a tarp, think of it as an investment, not just an expense. Opting for a durable material might seem pricier at first, but it pays off in the long run with a longer lifespan and superior protection for your valuable belongings. It's like choosing a well-made pair of boots – they might cost more initially, but they'll save you money in the long haul. The price of a tarp can fluctuate depending on factors such as fabric type, dimensions, and additional features.
When allocating your budget for a tarp, remember to consider the long-term implications. Opting for a more durable material might mean a higher upfront cost, but it often translates into significant savings down the road as you won't need to replace it as frequently. What’s more, it also ensures superior protection for your valuable assets, minimizing the risk of damage and potential losses.
It's important to recognize that the price of a tarp isn't solely determined by its size; factors such as the specific fabric type and any additional features like reinforced corners or fire retardancy can also influence the overall cost. So, carefully weigh your priorities and choose a tarp that strikes the ideal balance between cost-effectiveness and the desired level of protection and longevity.