Choosing Between Vinyl and Polyethylene Tarpaulin Covers

Tarpaulins often referred to as tarps are large pieces of material that may be used to offer shelter or protect something from unfavorable conditions. Vinyl and polyethylene are two common choices for Tarpaulin covers. In this article, we will try to compare vinyl and polyethylene tarps to help you make the right decision.

Appearance

The vinyl tarp usually has a smoother and shinier finish than the other types of tarpaulin. It may be blended with polyester fibers to make it look and feel more resilient. Polyethylene tarps are not shiny, they are matte. They appear to be less shiny than vinyl; however, they are still very suitable for most uses. Polyethylene does not have fibers for reinforcement, unlike polypropylene which has nylon fibers in its structure.

Durability

Overall, polyethylene is slightly more rugged than vinyl tarps when used for extended periods in outdoor conditions. Polyethylene is tear-resistant, puncture-resistant, mold and mildew-resistant, and UV-resistant. If maintained properly it can last more than a decade. Vinyl also deteriorates easily especially when exposed to weather and other elements for long periods. Some of them might ravel at the seams and edges. A vinyl tarp is known to have a lifespan of 2 to 4 years if it has been used moderately.

Water Resistance

Polyethylene tarps are water-proof unless their surface has been punctured or otherwise compromised in some way. These tarps appear to repel water forming droplets that’s why it rolls over the surface. Unreinforced vinyl tarps are those that allow even more dampness to penetrate through to the interior with time. Vinyl material with polyester support is more waterproof as opposed to other varieties. The materials like vinyl and polyethylene should not be used for constructing long-lasting roofs.

Easy to Handle

Polyethylene tarps made from lightweight material are easy to anchor, move, fold, and stow compared to vinyl ones. Polyethylene material is considerably lighter than the previous one, yet it is still quite resistant. Vinyl tarps are heavier than polyethylene ones, especially if they are made with added layers for durability. Think of the weight when the tarp is going to be put and taken off frequently.

Breathability

The vinyl type of Heavy Duty Tarpaulin is known to be less permeable to air as compared to the polyethylene type of tarp. This can help prevent billowing in windy conditions. It also helps prevent the formation of water droplets and the accumulation of water under the tarp. Vinyl covers absorb and retain more heat, moisture, and even condensation on top of. This is because polyethylene is generally more breathable, although this may sometimes make oils choose polyethylene.

Chemical Resistance

Polyethylene tarps are immune to most chemical solutions, fuels, greases, and oils. That makes them suitable for use as a protective cover in industrial, commercial, and farming activities. Vinyl can indeed be cracked or reacted by some specific chemicals. It provides comparatively poor chemical resistance in the long run. Make sure to read up on the tarp specifications and requirements.

Fade Resistance

Good polyethylene tarps are those that have been treated with ultraviolet (UV) stabilizers. This helps shield them from the damaging effects of the sun and fading. Economy vinyl tarps deteriorate over time by becoming rigid and having the color washed out when exposed to outdoor conditions for long. Getting vinyl with UV stabilization will help it to last longer without showing signs of wear.

Flammability

Polyethylene has low flammability; it burns slowly and does not continue to burn once the source of fire is removed. This provides the people with the much-needed extra few seconds to react in a fire emergency, under a tarp shelter. Vinyl is a flammable material that burns with great intensity should a fire outbreak enhance risk. Fire behavior also makes polyethylene safer than polypropylene.

Price Differences

Polyethylene Tarpaulins are usually cheaper than polyvinyl chloride ones, however, polyethylene tarps are more durable. Take account of the usable life extension when comparing prices of the different materials. More years of service and longer life span of the pipe compensate for the relatively expensive cost of raw material in polyethylene than the common material that is used in construction. This cannot be the only criterion in the selection process of the products to be imported or manufactured.

Eco-Friendliness

Polyethylene tarps are recyclable. Vinyl ones have chlorides and some other chemicals inside them. They can cause emissions when burning or degrade for very long times in the landfills. Polyethylene degrades more easily than vinyl and is therefore more environmentally friendly than vinyl as a tarp material.

Conclusion

If possible, go for polyethylene as it is more durable than vinyl when it comes to the construction of long-lasting tarps. The above properties explain why polyethylene tarps continue to do well in their functions as they are weather and chemical-proof. Polyethylene tarps do not shrink under the sun, water, wind, or chemicals and turn hard or brittle. Although vinyl costs less initially, polyethylene tarps are more economical in the long run. They also have environmental and fire precautions benefits. Reflect on how suitable polyethylene tarps are to your coverage needs. Their materials can give long-time performance and service life.