Canvas tarpaulins have been used for centuries and continue to be a popular choice for a variety of applications due to their durability, versatility, and affordability. Here are some of the main benefits of using Canvas Tarpaulin: Here are some of the main benefits of using canvas tarps:
Benefits Of Using Canvas Tarps
Durability
Canvas is made from thick woven cotton that is naturally water-resistant and very durable. Canvas tarps can withstand a lot of wear and tear from weather, friction, transportation, and regular use without ripping or fraying. A good quality canvas tarp can easily last 5-7 years or more.
Weather Resistance
The thick cotton material of canvas tarps makes them naturally water resistant to a certain degree. They provide good protection from rain and snow, although they may leak a bit in extremely heavy downpours. The breathable weave also has the added advantage of not trapping moisture and sweat as it does not have a lining.
Versatility
Canvas truck tarps, painter's drop cloths, and other types of canvas sheets can serve many functions. They have thousands of uses for covering and protecting vehicles, equipment, supplies, work areas, floors, and furniture both indoors and out.
Easy to Install
Canvas tarps are lightweight and flexible enough to be installed by one person. Grommets spaced along the edges allow the canvas to be securely tied down to stakes, poles, or frames. This makes it possible to use the tarps to create a temporary shelter or a cover.
Affordability
Canvas is an extremely affordable tarp material option. canvas truck tarps, drop cloths, and sandbags can protect valuable equipment and materials at a fraction of the cost of other Industrial-grade fabric materials.
Aesthetics
Canvas has a natural, organic look and texture that is appealing for many applications from outdoor gatherings to artwork. The off-white color and visible weave provide a nice backdrop without being fully opaque.
The Cons of Canvas Tarpaulins
While having many excellent qualities, canvas tarps also come with a few drawbacks to consider:
Not Waterproof
While the tight cotton weave repels water to a degree, the canvas is not fully waterproof. During heavy rains or storms, moisture can seep through the fabric over time. The material also absorbs moisture with prolonged wet weather exposure.
Prone to Mold/Mildew
If canvas Tarpaulins are packed away or stored while damp, the material is prone to developing mold, mildew, and rotting. This not only causes bad odors but can weaken the integrity of the canvas over time. Proper drying is essential before storage.
Shrinkage
Canvas tends to shrink by as much as 10% if exposed to excessive heat during the drying process after becoming wet. This shrinking can cause distortion and create excess slack when re-installing the tarp.
Not Fire Resistant
While cotton itself won't fuel a fire, canvas tarps provide no fire resistance. Embers from nearby fires can burn holes into and potentially ignite a canvas tarp. Treating canvas with a fire retardant spray provides some protection.
Fading Issues
During long-term outdoor exposure to sunlight and weather elements, the untreated canvas will gradually fade and lose color intensity. Frequent re-treatment is required to maintain appearance.
Requires Care
While very durable over the long haul, canvas tarps require proper ongoing care for the longest use. Inspection for mildew and tears, cleaning, re-waterproofing treatments, and careful folding/storage habits help extend canvas tarp life.
Conclusion
To conclude, canvas tarpaulins have the following great merits; flexibility, toughness, permeability, and low cost. However the cotton fabric has some vulnerabilities regarding waterproofness, mold/mildew growth, fire resistance, and fading over time with outdoor exposure. Following best practices for installation, cleaning, and storage helps optimize longevity and performance. Ultimately canvas delivers good value and utility for most non-critical shelter and covering applications.
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