Extreme weather doesn’t wait for convenient timing. When your tarp fails during a storm or under scorching heat, you need a replacement that can handle whatever nature throws at it. The material you choose makes all the difference between reliable protection and costly failure.
Most people grab the first tarp they see, focusing only on size and price. This often leads to disappointment when the material can’t withstand the conditions it faces. Clever shoppers know that material properties determine whether a tarp will last one season or several years.
Weight and Thickness of Rollover Replacement Tarps
Heavier tarps generally offer better durability, but weight alone doesn’t tell the whole story. Thickness measured in mils (thousandths of an inch) provides a clearer picture of material strength. A 12-mil tarp typically outperforms a 6-mil option in harsh conditions, but the trade-off comes in handling and storage.
Consider your specific situation when evaluating the weight of rollover replacement tarps. If you need to handle the tarp frequently, a lighter material might serve you better than an ultra-heavy option that becomes cumbersome. The sweet spot often lies between 8 and 12 mils for most extreme weather applications.
UV ResistanceÂ
Sunlight destroys tarp materials faster than most other weather factors. UV rays break down polymer chains, causing materials to become brittle and weak. This process happens gradually, making it easy to overlook until sudden failure occurs.
Different materials handle UV exposure differently:
- Vinyl tarps often include UV inhibitors that extend their lifespan significantly
- Polyethylene requires special treatment to resist UV damage effectively
- Canvas materials may fade but typically maintain structural integrity longer
Color also affects UV resistance. Lighter colors reflect more heat and UV radiation, while darker colors absorb more energy and may degrade faster in direct sunlight.
Waterproofing vs Water Resistance
These terms sound similar but describe very different capabilities. Water-resistant materials slow moisture penetration but eventually allow water through. Waterproof materials create a complete barrier that prevents water passage entirely.
For extreme weather conditions, true waterproofing becomes essential. Look for materials with sealed seams and reinforced edges. Coated fabrics often provide excellent waterproofing, but the coating can wear off over time with heavy use.
Tear and Abrasion ResistanceÂ
Wind creates tremendous stress on tarp materials through constant flapping and pulling. Materials that resist tearing handle these forces better and last longer. Ripstop weaves help prevent small tears from becoming large failures.
Abrasion resistance matters when tarps contact rough surfaces like concrete, metal edges, or tree branches. Reinforced corners and edges help prevent wear in high-stress areas. Some materials include built-in reinforcement fibers that add strength without significantly increasing weight.
Temperature Flexibility Prevents Cracking
Extreme temperatures cause materials to expand and contract repeatedly. This cycle stresses the material and can lead to cracking, especially in cold conditions. Flexible materials adapt to temperature changes better than rigid ones.
Vinyl typically remains flexible across a wider temperature range than polyethylene. However, some specialized polyethylene formulations now offer improved flexibility for extreme temperature applications. Check the manufacturer’s temperature rating to ensure compatibility with your climate conditions.
