Protect Your Vehicles with Heavy Duty Tarpaulin

Heavy duty tarpaulins provide significant protection from environmental elements that can damage your vehicle. Leaving a vehicle uncovered exposes it to rain, snow, ice, salt, debris, bird droppings, tree sap, and other hazards that can degrade exterior paint and surfaces over time. A quality Tarpaulin creates a barrier from these issues to keep your vehicle’s appearance and resale value maintained.

Why Use Heavy Duty Tarpaulin to Cover Your Vehicle?

Heavy Duty Tarpaulin Protects from the Elements

Heavy duty tarpaulins are specifically designed with weather-resistant materials to shield vehicles from the elements. Most quality tarpaulins are constructed with waterproof yet breathable fabrics that allow moisture to escape while keeping rain, snow, and other precipitation from soaking into exterior surfaces. This prevents water damage to paint, leather, electronics, and other components vulnerable to moisture.

Different Options for Different Needs

Not all Heavy Duty Tarpaulin are created equal, as covers come in different materials, weights, and styles to accommodate an array of climates, vehicle types, and storage scenarios. Lightweight covers suffice for mild-weather parking but may tear or require replacement more often. Heavier-duty covers stand up better to extreme heat, cold, rain, and snow but come at a higher price.

Heavy Duty Tarpaulin for Your Vehicle

There are several key factors to consider when selecting a heavy duty tarpaulin to ensure you choose the ideal cover for your vehicle and climate.

Material Type

Heavy duty tarpaulin materials primarily consist of polyethylene (poly), polyester, and acrylic-coated polyester fabrics.

Polyethylene tarpaulins

Polyethylene (poly) covers are very affordable but are also the least durable option. While initially waterproof, poly materials degrade faster in direct sunlight and are more prone to tearing.

Polyester tarpaulins

Polyester tarpaulins are more dense and durable than basic poly. Woven polyester fabrics are breathable, resist mildew and mold growth, and maintain flexibility in cold weather. However, standard polyester may still fade quicker than alternatives in intense sun.

Acrylic-coated polyester

Acrylic-coated polyester incorporates a weather-resistant acrylic coating over the polyester that makes it completely waterproof while also protecting against sun damage better than standard polyester. This material stands up well to UV rays and remains vibrant longer than other options.

Using and Caring for Your Heavy Duty Tarpaulin

Proper use and simple maintenance will help your heavy duty tarpaulin last for seasons of protection.

Proper Installation

Ensure your vehicle’s tires are fully inflated before covering. This provides a taut fit that won’t snag or collect debris. Use all available tie-down points such as door handles, bumpers, and provided straps or grommets to securely fasten the cover. Adjustments may be needed as temperatures change to prevent flapping.

Storage When Not In Use

Fold rather than roll covers for compact storage, as creases can develop in rolled material over time. Store in a cool, dry garage or shed away from direct sunlight which can accelerate fading of UV-coated fabrics. Inspect for dirt or damage before re-using.

Cleaning and Basic Maintenance

A gentle spray with the garden hose rids covers of surface dirt and debris. Allow to air dry completely to prevent mildew. Spot clean as needed with a mild detergent and soft brush to remove stubborn stains from bird droppings or tree sap.

FAQs

Does using a vehicle tarpaulin void the manufacturer warranty?

No, using a proper heavy duty tarpaulin designed for vehicle covering does not invalidate or conflict with manufacturer warranties in any way. Tarps do not cause damage when used correctly and stored off the vehicle when not in use.

How long will a quality heavy duty tarpaulin last?

If stored and used properly, most heavy duty tarpaulins will provide protection for 3-5 years or longer before showing signs of degradation. Less expensive poly covers may only last 1-2 seasons typically. Higher quality materials like acrylic-coated polyester can withstand weather for 5 years or more of average usage.

Can heavy duty tarpaulins be used on multiple vehicles?

Yes, tarpaulins can be used on more than one vehicle if they are the appropriate size. Be sure to measure vehicles carefully before purchasing and clean the tarp thoroughly between uses to avoid transferring dirt or paint residue. It’s also wise to store vehicle-specific tarps separately when not in use.

Is it possible to use a heavy duty tarpaulin when occasionally driving the vehicle?

While it’s technically possible to drive short distances with a cover in place, it is not recommended or safe due to restricted visibility and air flow concerns. Covers are best reserved for stationary vehicle storage only and should always be removed before driving. Read More

What is the most effective way to store a vehicle for long periods of time?

The best practice for long-term vehicle storage is to install a heavy duty cover, disconnect the battery cables, and ensure all fluids are drained or stabilized appropriately based on the season. This protects all external and internal components from damage during prolonged disuse.

Conclusion

Using a heavy duty tarpaulin is an effective way to protect vehicles from environmental damage during both short-term and long-term storage situations. Choosing the right cover means selecting a material, size and style suited to the vehicle and typical climate. With proper installation and periodic maintenance of the tarpaulin, vehicle owners can preserve exterior paint and trim facets to help maintain resale value for the lifespan of owning their vehicle.

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