Poly Tarp Characteristics And Uses

Nov. 17, 2009 - PRLog -- Poly Tarps also known as Polyethylene Tarps are constructed of multiple mesh fabric layers which are then coated by polyethylene sheets. Each manufactured poly tarp is distinguished by the fabrics mesh count and mil. The poly tarp’s mesh count is determined by the number of threads used per square inch. For example, a poly tarp rated at a 10 x 10 mesh count would typically have 10 threads per inch in both a vertical and horizontal direction. The tarps thickness is determined and measured by the mil or thickness of the coating (1 mil = .001 inch (1/1000). The larger the number; the thicker and more heavy duty the Poly Tarp will be. Regular duty Poly Tarps are typically rated at 6 mils and are commonly used for temporary coverage from the outside elements. Heavy duty poly tarps can range from 12 to 23 mils in thickness and are the preferred tarps for canopy frames.

Poly Tarps are often referred to as P.E. Tarps and are sold in either pre-cut sizes or by the roll. Poly Tarps are available in a variety sizes, colors and thicknesses. It is important to note that the actual size of the Poly Tarp will be 4 to 6 inches smaller in each direction than the size listed on the package. This is referred to as the cut and finish size. The difference in the size is the result of the grommet application process. Grommets are the brass, aluminum or metal rings lining the poly tarps and are used to aid in the attaching of the poly tarp to the canopy frame. The spacing of the grommets will vary from one manufacturer to another. Generally, spacing of the grommets will be between 18 to 36 inches. Shorter spacing of the grommets gives strength to the tarp and helps aid in the prevention of extreme movement that is associated with tearing.

In addition to grommets, Poly Tarps have several features that help reinforce the overall strength of the fabric. On each corner of a poly tarp a triangular plastic covering is installed to prevent the grommets from pulling through the fabric. The corners of the poly tarp are subject to the most tension under harsh conditions. Furthermore, during the grommet process a perimeter rope is added before the tarp fabric is folded back on itself and then laminated to create the hem. The combination of the perimeter rope and hem add great strength to the edges of the fabric.

Poly Tarps are used for a variety of different applications. Some of the most common uses are but not limited to roof and building covers, hurricane protection, canopies, truck tarps, privacy tarps, field tarps, shade tarps, hay tarps, lumber tarps, athletic field covers, gym floor covers, fire retardant covers and boat tarps. Poly Tarps are the preferred cover for multi-purpose applications due to their strength, durability and price. Poly tarps are commonly found to be UV treated, waterproof, mildew and rot resistant, contain sun blocking materials and contain fibers that resist arctic temperatures. UV treated poly tarps have a special chemical treatment that is applied at the time of manufacturing which helps protect the fibers from prolonged sun degradation. Polyethylene material in and of itself is naturally waterproof. The tightly woven fibers and laminated layers of the Poly Tarp results in a durable and waterproof product that is very dependable in wet environments. Due to the fact that polyethylene is a natural waterproof material it is also very resistant mold, mildew and rot. In addition, Poly Tarps perform very well in freezing temperatures, resisting the negative effects of cold weather. Most Poly Tarps consist of three layers however, an additional sun blocking layer can be found in the silver or grey colored tarps. Due to the sun blocking layer, silver tarps provide total shade and protection from the elements. The sun blocker consists of a single black layer of polyethylene which is then placed between the existing polyethylene layers to prevent any sunlight from penetrating the cover

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