7 Best Tarp for Roof: Pros-Cons and Buying Guide

What can a tarp solve for you? Well, the best tarp for roof could solve for you how to make certain parts of your roof last for a long time, even if the tarp is oftentimes left amid the dust for the next rain. If you are in the process of cleaning your roof, it might not be a bad idea to wrap it with a tarp to make it especially clean. Tarps are used to cover something you don’t want to get wet or exposed to the elements. Some people use tarps to cover boats, trucks, cars, etc. Some others use tarps to keep floors, truck beds, camping, using as a roof, and so on.

Last Modified Feb 12, 2023 @ 5:00 pm

4 TypesTypes of Tarps:  Explained

After looking at the best tarp for a roof, you’ll go to great lengths to find the best tarp for you. So before you head out to find your perfect match, you should know about the different types of tarps for roofs.

1. Mesh Tarps 

These types of tarps are perfect for shade screens privacy enclosures and windscreens and are widely used in industries such as trucking, construction and agriculture. Mesh tarps are uv resistant tear resistant mildew and acid-resistant.  It comes in a variety of options for sunlight protection ranging from 40 percent to 95 percent shade. Mesh tarps can be custom-made to any size and shape and are available by the rolls in various sizes to suit all your needs.

2. Vinyl Tarps

These tarps are the most long-lasting tarps.Vinyl tarps will be the right choice for 100 percent waterproof industrial heavy-duty grade and can be custom-made to any shape and size.

Vinyl tarps are also oil acid grease mildew and uv resistant and can be made to resist fire making it perfect for both residential and commercial use. Vinyl tarps are widely used in trucking construction agriculture industrial and much more depending on the nature of your project. Vinyl tarps come in a variety of color options including clear vinyl material which is a popular choice for patio enclosures.

Vinyl tarps offer wide options ranging from 10 ounces to 40 oz final tarps. Choose 10 or 14 ounces for lightweight duty projects. Choose 18 22 or 40 ounces for your most heavy-duty projects. Vinyl tarps can last for 10 plus years under proper care

3. Poly Tarps

These are popular among many due to its lightweight affordability and the wide range of available colors and sizes. Poly tarps are designed for temporary use and will not last as long as vinyl tarps. If you are looking for a quick short-term fix, you would find poly tarps as a cost-effective solution. Like vinyl tarps, poly tarps are 100% waterproof and are widely used in various industries including construction, roofing lawn and gardening and agriculture. Point to note, the longivity of tarps depends on where it has been used. For example, the warmer the weather around the tarp is, the shorter it’s life span will be. 

Resource site: tarplus.com

4. Canvas Tarps

Fire-resistant poly tarps are also available in canvas tarps which are breathable and allow moisture to evaporate. Canvas tarps can also be treated for water resistance for outdoor use tarps outlet carries both canvas tarps that are treated for water resistance as well as non-treated. Natural canvas tarps are commonly used as painters drop cloths. Finally canvas tarps are ideal for covering machinery and equipment.

Reference Source: tarpsoutlet. com

Things to Consider Before Buying a Tarp Cover

Material:  Many types of tarp covers are available in the market such as Polyethylene, canvas, and vinyl are the three best materials that should be chosen while buying a tarp.

The majority of tarps on the market are made of polyethylene. This is a type of plastic that is naturally rainproof and UV resistant. On the other hand, the canvas is pricier than polyethylene but not naturally rainproof.

They are long-lasting and non-slip that makes you walk on it.

Lastly, vinyl is heavier and thicker than polyethylene. It is long-lasting and withstands an extreme degree of abuse.

Resist Mold and Mildew: moisture and heat create mold and mildew which can break down a tarp easily. Select a tarp that is resistant to mold and mildew growth.

Thickness: you need to decide whether you want a heavy-duty tarp or a lightweight one. Medium tarps are about 8 to 10 millimeters. On the other hand, heavy-duty tarps range from 13 to 21 millimeters. They are durable and can provide better protection and lightweight tarps are easy to store.

UV and Waterproof: a tarp can fade and break down over time with the sun’s UV rays. If you are planning to use the tarp outdoors it is desired to be a waterproof tarp. Check the label for specification.

Size: the size depends on the use of the tarp. There are wide ranges of sizes for tarps. Do some measuring before you start shopping. Just to be safe add a few inches extra to your final measurements.

Grommets: Grommets are metal rings reinforced around the edges of the tarp that help you tie down the tarp with rope. Mostly they are made from rust-proof brass.  Check the spacing between the grommets.

Color: tarps come in a wide range of colors. The blue, brown, and green tarps are used in landscape maintenance.

On the other hand, an orange, yellow and red tarp is used when high visibility is required, while white tarps provide some shade but allow natural light to come through.

Ease of Use: it is very important to consider if the tarp is easy to use or not.  Look for tarps that have grommets so you can easily install it. The grommets will ensure it doesn’t fall down.

Vinyl Tarp Vs Poly Tarp

Vinyl and Poly tarps are almost the same things with similar looks. The difference is only the material.

Vinyl tarps are industrial-grade and best used for heavy-duty applications such as agricultural or industrial use. They have super water and abrasion resistance properties. 

They can be frequently exposed to the sun with their high resistance to ultraviolet rays. Most of them can also resist acid, oil, grease, and mildew damage.

Vinyl tarps are extremely resistant to abrasion, tearing, and wind whip.

On the contrary, polyethylene tarps are made from recycled plastic and they are the most commonly used for their durability, chemical and UV rays resistance. Most poly tarps are not fireproof.  

To make it waterproof poly tarp features reinforced hems, heavy-duty grommets, and a heat-welded interior. Poly tarps are cheaper than vinyl tarps.

List of Best Best Tarp for Roof

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1. B-Air Grizzly Best Waterproof Tarp

Buy At Amazon

Specialty:

• B-Air grizzly tarp has border piping for stronger ends to avoid tears.

What We Liked:

• 10 different sizes are available to choose from.
• Features built-in aluminum grommets.
• Thin but highly durable.
• UV, water and mildew proof.
• This is washable.
• Inexpensive.

Cons:

• Grommets could be stronger.
• No color option is available.

Bottom Line

The B-Air Grizzly Tarps is a multi-purpose cover that is used to shelter cars, boats, motor vehicles etc. And if you are a camper, this tarp will shield you from sunlight, wind or rain.

It is 5 mil thick but still durable and has a good weave in it. This tarp is great for putting on the ground under a tent, also makes a decent shade for a picnic, can be used to repair and paint houses, etc.

Furthermore, this is thin and light enough that you can easily drag or lift it to where you want.

2. Trademark Supplies Store Heavy Duty Roof Tarp

Buy At Amazon

Specialty:

• Trademark Supplies Store tarp is available in 10 colors.

What We Liked:

• It is 8 mil thick that makes it highly durable.
• It comes with a rope reinforced hem and heat-sealed seams.
• It is completely waterproof.
• Sturdy.
• 19 sizes are available to choose the perfect one for you.

Cons:

• Expensive.
• Not mildew proof.

Bottom Line

This is a perfect tarp for light-duty jobs such as, for pull covering, camping during rainy days, covering boat, car etc. it is designed to be durable and provide you full protection from water.

It serves you for many years. Furthermore, it comes in many sizes and there is no way you will not find one to fit your needs.

3. Xpose Safety Store Best Tarp To Cover Roof

Buy At Amazon

Specialty:

• This tarp cover is 16 mil thick and which makes it super strong.

What We Liked:

•  This durable tarp contains a rope-reinforced edge.
• This is perfect for light-duty to heavy-duty applications.
• The grommets are spaced every 18 inches for easy tying.
• Xpose Safety Store tarp is UV and water and weather resistant which won’t let it deform, shrink or fade.
• Xpose Safety tarp is available in a wide variety of sizes.
• Rip and tear-proof.

Cons:

• Heavier than other tarps.

Bottom Line

If you are looking for a super heavy-duty tarp this Xpose Safety Tarp is one of the best. Rain or shine, snow or wind this heavy tarp can handle all weather conditions.

With the tarp, you can cover your car, building materials at construction sites, and wood. Furthermore, this is a good choice for making a tent for camping. This tarp is made to serve you for years.

4. Kotap All Purpose Heavy Duty Waterproof Roof Tarps

Buy At Amazon

Specialty:

• Kotap poly tarp cover is highly durable yet super lightweight.
• custom size available. 

What We Liked:

• Kotap heavy duty tarp is made with polyethylene fabric and aluminum grommets which makes it durable.
• Heat-sealed seams and reinforced corners ensure extra strength.
• Tear and UV-resistant.
• Rain and highly resistant to mold and mildew.
• A wide variety of sizes, weights, and colors are available.

Cons:

• Thinner than other tarps.

Bottom Line:

This tarp cover can be used for all purposes, boating, camping, hunting, covering storage etc. with this cost-efficient tarp you don’t have to worry about tearing or getting scratched.

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5. AmazonCommercial Best Tarp For Sun Exposure

Buy At Amazon

Specialty:

• A wide variety of size (customer size), styles (means pack), and uncommon colors that includes  waterproof clear mesh tarp
  are available for AmazonCommercial tarp.

What We Liked:

• It features double-sided polyethylene laminated coating for durability.
• It has built-in 1/2-inch metal grommets every 36 inches
• Waterproof.
• Perfect for heavy-duty jobs.
• Easily washable.

Cons:

• Very stiff to handle by one person.

Bottom Line:

This double-sided waterproof tarp can be used on both sides. AmazonCommercial tarp offers versatile use in a variety of environments. This is a solid, thick, and good-quality tarp. This is 5 mils thick.

6. GUARD RHINO Heavy Duty waterproof roof tarps

Buy At Amazon

Specialty:

• GUARD RHINO Tarp is durable, portable, washable, and reusable.

What We Liked:

• This is a double-sided polyethylene tarp that can be used on both sides.
• It features heat-sealed seams and rustproof aluminum grommets.
• UV, water and mildew resistance.
• Quite affordable.
• Super lightweight.

Cons:

• Not ideal for heavy-duty use.

Bottom Line:

Available in sizes six by six feet to nine by 12. This is 4 mils thick and designed to cover items such as yard equipment, kayaks, boats, and vehicles. This is really inexpensive and anyone can

7. WHITE DUCK Store Best UV Protection Tarp

Buy At Amazon

Specialty:

• WHITE DUCK Store poly tarp has a plastic capped bar on all corners with additional rivets to make it extra sturdy. 
• If you are looking for extra thickness, then it can be a good protection for your house, it offers great thickness, unlike other brands. 

What We Liked:

• This Store poly tarps consist of a 16 mil thickness.
• Rust-proof brass grommets are spaced in every 18 inches.
• A wide variety of sizes are available.
• Shrink proof.
• The high-strength yarn has been used for extra UV protection from harmful sun rays.
• Provide all-weather protection.

Cons:

• Only two colors are available.

Bottom Line:

WHITE DUCK poly tarp is a heavy-duty tarp made with polyethylene. This is made for everyday use as it provides protection against heavy rain and UV rays. This can be used to shelter boats, cars, trucks. They can also be used as a drop cloth while painting or polishing. Moreover, you can use it outdoors for camping, hunting etc.

8. TARPATOP Store Waterproof Temporary Roof Tarpaulins

Buy At Amazon

Specialty:

• This TARPATOP tarp cover comes really in a b/udget friendly price.

What We Liked:

• High-density polyethylene fabric combined with interwoven poly strips.
• This is usable in winter or summer.
• Will not easily rip or tear. 
• Waterproof and UV resistant.
• Rot-resistant.

Cons:

• Only 4 sizes are available.

Bottom Line:

This is a handy cover that is reinforced with grommets every 32 inches. This can be used to cover construction work projects, protect cars, boats, etc. this cover keeps your product in perfect condition under bad weather conditions. Moreover, you can clean up the tarp very easily.

9. Dry Top Poly Tarp Cover

Buy At Amazon

Specialty:

Dry Top tarp offers 30 sizes and 13 styles of products so that you can choose the best one for you.

What We Liked:

• A heavy-duty 10 mils thick tarp.
• Grommets are spaced at 18-inch intervals.
• Made from tightly woven polyethylene fabric.
• Water-resistant dual lamination.
• Resists damage from the sun.
• The hems are tightly heat-sealed.
• Mold/mildew resistance.

Cons:

• A bit expensive for the quality.
• Fabric gets damaged after long exposure.

Bottom Line:

If you are looking for a heavy-duty, massive, multipurpose tarp, then this DRY TOP product is all you need. This tarp does a great job as an outdoor rooftop. Not only that, this tarp offers a wide range of applications, whether it is for light-duty use or heavy use.

FAQ

Is the space of grommets on a tarp important?

Answer: Yes, of course. This space affects your ability to secure items beneath the tarp. Grommets vary in spacing from 18 to 36 inches, depending on the tarp. The shorter the distance between grommets, the easier it will be to tie down the tarp and secure it.

What is mil?

Answer: A mil is a unit of length equal to 0.001 of an inch (0.0254 mm). Mil is used to measure the thickness of tarps. Normally, the thicker the tarp is, the better the quality is.

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How should I store my tarp?

Answer: After using your tarp, make sure you clean it by force water. After initial cleansing , you can use detergent to get any stains off. However, for long and wide tarps, using water will do only. Never store your tarp while it is still wet because it might cause mildew. When it is used for household purpose, after making it dry, fold it and place it in a bag or box and store it safely away from any sharp objects. For Industials tarps, the tarps are usually storred in a huge roll or some place where it can be unrolled and reused again. 

To Conclude

In general, the heavier the material of the tarp, the stronger the tarp is. The other factors such as the methods of preparing the fabric and the chemical coatings added to it also determine the durability of a tarp. Tarp is basically made of polyethylene which is extremely lightweight as well as waterproof. Tarps for rooftops or to cover in-progress construction works are great in providing great degree of shelter against the rain, prevent debris to protect pedestrian movements and other moving vehicles, wind, snow, and heat. Choosing the best tarp for your project is very important to ensure maximum output of protection, devider, shade and shelter.