Tarps Cover The World

Poly Tarps, or tarpaulins, have proven themselves to be one of the most widely used and versatile coverings found around the world. Made from woven polyethylene that have been weaved together and then coated with a polyethylene coating to about 30 microns (the origination of the word "poly" in "poly tarps"), the cheaper of these tarps are generally found in various shades of blue and are made from a single sheet of polyethylene fiber with weights per yard of 2.0oz up to 3.0z, while more heavy duty poly tarps are silver, black, or white and are made up of a thicker and heavier weight of polethylene around 6.oz per sq yard

Poly tarps are quite effective at keeping out the natural elements and are easily adapted to many different situations, which explains their popularity around the world. They can be found in use all across the United States and Europe, protecting homes and crops from sudden sand storms in the Middle East and helping those in tropical areas protect themselves during hurricanes and other natural disasters.

We see tarps used most often in the United States for construction and recreation. Tarps vary in size and can easily be cut to a needed shape and still remain relatively sturdy, making them ideal to cover cars, boats or to protect gear when traveling through a rain storm. They are often found on construction sites, protecting soft lumber from possible scratches or gouges coming from flying debris. Importers and exporters often use poly tarps as large dividers for their cargo, as several tarps can be strung together to reach from floor to ceiling even in a large cargo ship.

Farmers in all regions have been known to cover hay and other easily damaged crops with tarps, as the tight weave of the polyethylene fibers is excellent for keeping even the smallest amount of water from slipping through and rotting the straw. Poly tarps have been keeping farms from losing millions in destroyed goods since their creation.

Perhaps one of the most interesting uses for a poly tarp is in the way it can bring humanitarian aid in the midst of natural disaster. It is under these particular circumstances where the versatility of a poly tarp really shines through. During a natural disaster where homes have been destroyed and people suddenly find themselves exposed to the elements, poly tarps can be used to build temporary shelters, keeping out rain, wind and even heat. As it can be used to cover straw and grains, tarps can also be used to protect what is left of a local food supply. It can be used to patch holes in homes and buildings that are still standing and can even be sliced up to be used as makeshift bandages or even slings. And once the disaster is over and the crisis has passed, the tarps can be used to gather the belongings that have survived.

The simple, sturdy construction of poly tarps is what allows them to be so useful in so many different situations. Strong, versatile and adaptable, when it comes to finding uses for these tarps, the possibilities are endless.

Robert Page has worked in the tarps industry for over 25 years. For more information about blue tarps please go to or for infomation about heavy duty tarps please go to