Truck tarps, or tarpaulins, are indispensable tools for the transportation industry. These heavy-duty covers serve as the first line of defense against the elements. Whether it’s extreme temperatures, precipitation, high winds, intense sunlight, or humidity, the right truck tarp is critical for truckers and freight carriers who need to keep their cargo in top condition.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Truck Tarp
Several essential factors are involved in selecting the perfect tarp:
Weather and Climate Conditions: Weather elements such as temperature, precipitation, wind, sunlight, and humidity play a significant role in your tarp choice.
Type of Cargo: Different types of cargo, such as hazardous materials or food products, may require specific tarps designed to protect against contamination or offer additional safeguards.
Journey Length: The distance of your transportation route also influences your tarp choice. Long-distance journeys necessitate more durable and weatherproof tarps compared to short-distance routes.
Specialized Applications: In some cases, specialized tarps are essential. For example, livestock trailers and live plant cargo require breathable tarps. At the same time, hazardous materials need tarps with specific chemical resistances and complete impermeability.
Overview of Different Tarp Materials
It’s necessary to familiarize yourself with the types of truck tarps available to make an informed choice when considering weather and climate:
Vinyl Tarps: These are a versatile choice for all-around weather protection. They are known for their durability and are often used to protect cargo from various weather conditions.
Poly Tarps: Lightweight and economical, poly tarps are suitable for light-duty applications. They offer decent protection against the elements and are an affordable choice.
Reinforced polyethylene (RPE) Tarps: These are made from a woven fabric with a polyethylene coating, which makes them waterproof, tear-resistant, and resistant to UV radiation. RPE tarps offer protection against various weather conditions and environmental elements. Their strength and affordability make them a practical choice for many transportation applications.
Canvas Tarps: When extreme weather conditions are a concern, coated canvas tarps are an ideal heavy-duty option. They are highly effective at protecting cargo, even in the harshest environments.
Mesh Tarps: If ventilation and airflow are a priority, mesh tarps provide the necessary breathability. They are a good choice when maintaining airflow inside the cargo area is essential.
Specialty Tarps: Specialty tarps offer tailored solutions for specific applications, such as hazardous materials or food transport. These tarps are equipped to address unique transportation challenges.
Weather and Climate Considerations
It’s essential to understand how different weather and climate conditions can impact the performance of truck tarps to make an informed decision. Here’s a breakdown of how environmental elements could affect your tarp selection:
Temperature Extremes (Hot and Cold):
Extreme temperatures can affect the performance of tarps and covers. For example:
High Temperatures
- Under prolonged exposure to extremely high temperatures, vinyl tarps can soften and lose shape.
- Poly tarps are more resistant to high temperatures compared to vinyl. However, they can become softer in extremely high temperatures and may lose some of their tensile strength.
- Reinforced Polyethylene (RPE) tarps are generally more resistant to high temperatures. They maintain their strength and durability in high temperatures and are less likely to become overly pliable. Their resistance to extreme heat makes them well-suited for heat-prone areas.
- Canvas tarps can withstand moderate to high temperatures without significant issues. They are less likely to become too pliable in very hot conditions. However, extreme heat can cause canvas tarps to shrink or lose their water-repellent properties.
Low Temperatures
- Vinyl tarps are susceptible to cold cracking when exposed to freezing temperatures. The material can become stiff and brittle, making it prone to cracks or tears.
- Poly tarps are generally more resistant to cold cracking compared to vinyl. However, they can become stiff and lose flexibility in very low temperatures.
- RPE tarps are less prone to cold cracking than some other materials. They offer better flexibility in cold weather and are less likely to become stiff and brittle.
- Canvas tarps can withstand colder temperatures without becoming excessively stiff, making them a better choice for cold climates.
Precipitation (Rain, Snow, Sleet):
Truck tarps and covers should generally be waterproof or water-resistant to protect cargo from rain, snow, and other forms of precipitation. The material you choose influences the level of protection against different types of precipitation. Waterproof means precisely that - water cannot pass through the material. The cargo will remain dry so long as the tarp covers the load entirely and securely. Vinyl, RPE poly tarps, and other materials treated with waterproof coatings are suitable choices.
Water-resistant materials can keep moisture out during light rain and short periods of moderate rain. Still, with extended exposure or heavy rains, water will inevitably penetrate. Canvas and polyester treated with water-resistant coatings are good examples. Still, when transporting moisture-sensitive loads, using a waterproof tarp is essential.
Wind
Tarps that perform better in windy conditions typically have specific characteristics designed to withstand strong gusts and maintain their integrity. These characteristics help prevent tearing, flapping, and other wind-related issues.
Heavy-duty and reinforced materials are more likely to withstand strong winds. Materials like RPE, heavy-duty vinyl, ripstop nylon, and heavy-duty canvas are commonly used in areas prone to high winds. Mesh tarps, which help contain the load but allow wind to pass through freely, are another option where precipitation is not an issue.
Sunlight (UV Radiation):
UV resistance is crucial for truck tarps exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods. Without proper UV protection, tarps can deteriorate, lose strength, fade, and become brittle, leading to reduced cargo protection and a shorter tarp lifespan.
Vinyl and RPE tarps are inherently UV-resistant and can endure prolonged exposure to sunlight without degrading quickly. Canvas is not naturally UV-resistant but is often treated with UV-resistant coatings, which improves its longevity. Other materials are also available with UV-resistant coatings. Still, these coatings must be regularly applied to remain effective, while inherently UV-resistant materials don’t require special maintenance.
Humidity
For truck tarps, like many other materials, prolonged humid conditions can lead to problems like the growth of mold and mildew or the rotting of natural materials like canvas.
Proper storage and maintenance, which includes drying out the tarp after use and keeping it clean, can help prevent degradation in humid conditions.
Weather and climate conditions are critical in choosing a tarp material that best protects your cargo. By considering temperature extremes, precipitation, wind, sunlight, and humidity and understanding the characteristics of vinyl, poly, canvas, mesh, and specialty tarps, you can make an informed selection tailored to your unique needs.
At BTL Liners, our truck tarps are designed to resist the elements. Our durable tarps protect your most important cargo and last through repeated uses, making them a valuable investment.
Contact us at BTL Liners, where our experts can take you through all your options and guide you toward the best tarp for your needs. Covering your truck with trustworthy, durable tarps has never been easier!
