Best Heavy Duty Tarp

Best Heavy Duty Tarp Reviews for 2021

Tarps are like the jack of all trades. Not only can they be used for keeping your outdoor belongings (barbeques, grills, etc.) safe from the elements, but they can also be used to keep cars, boats, trucks, and other prized possessions from getting dirty.

Best Heavy Duty Tarp Reviews for 2020

They can also be used during painting or construction projects to prevent paint, dust, and debris from ending up all over your furniture and floors. But not all tarps are made equally. That’s why we have scoured the internet to help you find the best tarps for affordability, durability, and strength. Here are the best tarps that we found.

What features should I look for when buying a heavy duty tarp?

As mentioned previously, not all heavy duty tarps are created equally. As such, here are some features that you should look for when considering a heavy duty tarp brand:

Material

Tarps come in a variety of different materials including Polyethylene, Canvas, Vinyl, and PVC. The type of material that you should select depends on what you are using the tarp for. Polyethylene tarps are the most common type, and are made from a heavy plastic. These tarps are lightweight, and designed to withstand outdoor weather conditions.

Canvas tarps are slightly more expensive than Polyethylene tarps, but have proven durability. They are the best choice for things like construction projects and other rough applications. Vinyl tarps are also very strong, and are commonly used for covering mobiles like boats, trucks, cars. Industrially speaking, PVC tarps are the most common choice.

Size

In terms of heavy duty tarps, size matters. Tarps come in a variety of different sizes, but larger tarps are generally recommended to provide better coverage. Though it is worth noting that the material used plays a much larger role than the size of the tarp itself.

Ease of use

Though you would think all tarps would be easy to use, some are easier than others. Look for tarps that have grommets that allow you to attach or install your tarp wherever you need. Generally speaking, the more grommets a tarp has, the more secure it will be.

Quality

When it comes to buying a tarp, don’t compromise quality for price. Look for a high quality tarp that is durable, long lasting, and that can withstand heavy weather conditions.

Editor’s Picks: Top 3 Best Heavy Duty Tarps

Best Overall
20x30 Multi-Purpose Silver/Brown Heavy Duty DRY TOP Poly Tarp (20'x30')
10' x 10' Super Heavy Duty 16 Mil Brown Poly Tarp Cover - Thick Waterproof, UV Resistant, Rip and...
Best In Budget
Grizzly Tarps by B-Air 20' x 30' Large Multi-Purpose Waterproof Heavy Duty Poly Tarp with Grommets...
Product
20x30 Multi-Purpose Silver/Brown Heavy Duty DRY TOP Poly Tarp (20'x30')
10' x 10' Super Heavy Duty 16 Mil Brown Poly Tarp Cover - Thick Waterproof, UV Resistant, Rip and...
Grizzly Tarps by B-Air 20' x 30' Large Multi-Purpose Waterproof Heavy Duty Poly Tarp with Grommets...
Price
$70.04
$37.88
$49.46
Our Verdict
A tightly woven polyethylene fabric that is waterproof, mildew resistant and UV resistant. What you're getting is a supreme quality tarp from a reliable brand. No brainer for all kinds of purposes with the exception of places liable to flames.
Another polyethylene based product, this is one of the strongest tarps out there. With 16 mm of thickness, it can withstand most weather conditions. It is also quite light in weight while also being UV resistant and waterproof.
Though not the sturdiest, this is a great option for temporary use. It is lightweight, washable and also mildew resistant. Perfect option for those looking for a budget option.
Best Overall
20x30 Multi-Purpose Silver/Brown Heavy Duty DRY TOP Poly Tarp (20'x30')
Product
20x30 Multi-Purpose Silver/Brown Heavy Duty DRY TOP Poly Tarp (20'x30')
Price
$70.04
More Info
Our Verdict
A tightly woven polyethylene fabric that is waterproof, mildew resistant and UV resistant. What you're getting is a supreme quality tarp from a reliable brand. No brainer for all kinds of purposes with the exception of places liable to flames.
10' x 10' Super Heavy Duty 16 Mil Brown Poly Tarp Cover - Thick Waterproof, UV Resistant, Rip and...
Product
10' x 10' Super Heavy Duty 16 Mil Brown Poly Tarp Cover - Thick Waterproof, UV Resistant, Rip and...
Price
$37.88
More Info
Our Verdict
Another polyethylene based product, this is one of the strongest tarps out there. With 16 mm of thickness, it can withstand most weather conditions. It is also quite light in weight while also being UV resistant and waterproof.
Best In Budget
Grizzly Tarps by B-Air 20' x 30' Large Multi-Purpose Waterproof Heavy Duty Poly Tarp with Grommets...
Product
Grizzly Tarps by B-Air 20' x 30' Large Multi-Purpose Waterproof Heavy Duty Poly Tarp with Grommets...
Price
$49.46
More Info
Our Verdict
Though not the sturdiest, this is a great option for temporary use. It is lightweight, washable and also mildew resistant. Perfect option for those looking for a budget option.

[su_note note_color=”#2a1b3d” text_color=”#ffffff”] We have reviewed five of the Best Heavy Duty Tarps In 2021. For doing so, we have taken a good mix of products that suits all kinds of customers. [/su_note]

Top 5 Best Heavy Duty Tarp Reviews

1. Kotap 30-ft x 40ft General Purpose Blue Poly Tarp

Buy On Amazon

If you’re looking for a heavy duty tarp that is still lightweight, there are few brands that do it better than Kotap. This general purpose tarp is 5 millimeters thick, but still lightweight enough that it’s not too big and bulky to tote around. Made and coated with tear resistant polyethylene, this tarp can be used for a variety of protection needs. Whether you intend to use the tarp for camping, boating, hunting, or storage covering, this general purpose tarp does it all. And as an added bonus? It’s UV resistant, as well as mold and mildew resistant, and shrink resistant.

Kotap 30 x 40 Ft. All-Purpose Multi-Use Protection/Coverage 5-mil Poly Tarp, Waterproof, Blue,...
10,998 Reviews
Kotap 30 x 40 Ft. All-Purpose Multi-Use Protection/Coverage 5-mil Poly Tarp, Waterproof, Blue,...
  • Finished Size (exact size of the tarp you will receive): 28 ft. 10 in. X 39 ft. 4 in.
  • UNPARALLELED PROTECTION - Widely used for a reason, this lightweight tarp offers excellent protection for your general purposes needs, more durable and longer-lasting than any other competing waterproof tarp (5-mil thick)

[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”PROS:”]

  • It is waterproof
  • It is quite light in weight
  • Provides tear resistance

[/wpsm_pros][/wpsm_column]

[wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”][wpsm_cons title=”CONS:”]

  • Not as strong as a canvas tarp
  • Grommets may not hold up in strong winds

[/wpsm_cons][/wpsm_column]

2. Dry Top 20×30 Multi-Purpose Silver/Brown Heavy Duty Poly Tarp

Buy On Amazon

Like the Kotap, this Dry Top 20×30 tarp is made from tightly woven polyethylene fabric that is both water and UV resistant. The tarp has been dual laminated by Dry Top to ensure that it is both water resistant and washable. It’s also mold and mildew resistant, and holds strong as a multi-purpose use tarp. The Dry Top brand has been a nationally trusted brand for over 30 years, and has created this tarp to be 10 millimeters thick and strong. Each tarp has been cut larger than its actual size, meaning that you get a true-to-size tarp each and every time you buy (which isn’t always the case with other brands).

20x30 Multi-Purpose Silver/Brown Heavy Duty DRY TOP Poly Tarp (20'x30')
806 Reviews
20x30 Multi-Purpose Silver/Brown Heavy Duty DRY TOP Poly Tarp (20'x30')
  • FULL SIZE - Our tarps are cut larger so they finish true to size (+/- 3%). For example, an 8x10 is realy 8' x 10'!

[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”PROS:”]

  • Built using a reliable heavily woven fabric
  • Mold and mildew resistant
  • Can be used for multiple purposes

[/wpsm_pros][/wpsm_column]

[wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”][wpsm_cons title=”CONS:”]

  • May not be as durable as some other brands
  • Tendency to rip/tear

[/wpsm_cons][/wpsm_column]

3. 16×20 inch Super Heavy Duty Brown Poly Tarp Cover by Xpose Safety

Buy On Amazon

If you’re looking for a tarp that is extra strong and extra thick – the Xpose Safety Super Heavy Duty Brown Poly Tarp Cover is the way to go. This tarp has been designed 16 mil thick to provide you with the strongest, most durable protection you can find. Whether the sun is shining, the rain is pouring, or the snow is falling, this durable tarp can handle any element that mother nature decides to throw at it. And with metal grommets placed at every 1.5 feet, this tarp isn’t going anywhere – tie it down, and it is guaranteed to stay!

16' x 20' Super Heavy Duty 16 Mil Brown Poly Tarp Cover - Thick Waterproof, UV Resistant, Rip and...
13,058 Reviews
16' x 20' Super Heavy Duty 16 Mil Brown Poly Tarp Cover - Thick Waterproof, UV Resistant, Rip and...
  • EXTRA THICK & STRONG: The high quality of this protective tarp is amazing: it has a 16 mil thickness, 8oz per square yard, and a 16 x 16 weave count. This has the strength and durability you need.
  • ALL WEATHER PROTECTION: Rain or shine, snow or wind this heavy tarp can handle it all! It is UV resistant, water proof and weather proof, and can withstand storms and the elements outdoors.

[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”PROS:”]

  • Quite thick
  • It is waterproof
  • Can withstand heavy duty applications

[/wpsm_pros][/wpsm_column]

[wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”][wpsm_cons title=”CONS:”]

  • May start to deteriorate in UV light
  • Heavy to lift

[/wpsm_cons][/wpsm_column]

4. B-Air Grizzly Tarps 20×30 Feet Blue Multi-Purpose Waterproof Poly Tarp Cover

Buy On Amazon

Like most of the tarps on this list, the B-Air Grizzly tarp is made from a tight 8×8 square inch polyethylene weave. This method of manufacturing not only ensures a lightweight material, but also provides you with great strength. Along with built in grommets every 36 inches, this tarp also provides further reinforcement with border piping. This piping helps to strengthen the ends of the tarp, keeping them safe from tearing during application. Lightweight, washable, and mildew proof, this tarp can help to protect all of your most precious valuables from even the strongest of elements.

Grizzly Tarps by B-Air 20' x 30' Large Multi-Purpose Waterproof Heavy Duty Poly Tarp with Grommets...
1,214 Reviews
Grizzly Tarps by B-Air 20' x 30' Large Multi-Purpose Waterproof Heavy Duty Poly Tarp with Grommets...
  • TIGHTLY WOVEN FABRIC: The Grizzly Tarps by B-Air are constructed with tightly woven polyethylene fibers (True 8 x 8 weave) which provide superior durability and protection.
  • WATERPROOF: Grizzly Tarps are waterproof. These tarps can be used to shelter boats, cars, campers or motor-vehicles from the elements (i.e. wind, rain or sunlight), as an emergency roof patch material for homeowners, and as a temporary pickup truck bed cover

[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”PROS:”]

  • It is light in weight
  • Quite affordable
  • Perfect for temporary use

[/wpsm_pros][/wpsm_column]

[wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”][wpsm_cons title=”CONS:”]

  • Only a few color options available
  • Metal rivets tend to fall off easily

[/wpsm_cons][/wpsm_column]

5. Silver/Black Heavy Duty Thick Material Tarp by Trademark Supplies

Buy On Amazon

Available in over 19 different sizes, the Heavy Duty Thick material tarp by Trademark Supplies is both lightweight and durable. It is especially designed for water protection, and can help to protect your belongings in torrential downpours or heavy winter snowfalls. With a 4 inch thickness this trademark supplies tarp is considered to be best used for “medium duty” projects, but offers excellent value and quality for its intended purposes.

[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”PROS:”]

  • It is light in weight
  • Comes with multiple size options
  • Perfect for medium duty applications

[/wpsm_pros][/wpsm_column]

[wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”][wpsm_cons title=”CONS:”]

  • Few Grommet holes
  • Not as thick as some other tarps

[/wpsm_cons][/wpsm_column]

6. 10 by 10 Inches Super Heavy Duty 16 Mil Brown Poly Tarp Cover

Buy On Amazon

With 16 millimetres of thickness, the 10 by 10 Inches Super Heavy Duty 16 Mil Brown Poly Tarp Cover is one of the strongest ones out there. Adding to that, it can also withstand any weather condition be it rainy, snowy or windy. It is also waterproof and UV resistant. Hence, you wouldn’t need to worry about its withstandability once installed.

In terms of material used, the tarp is made out of robust polyethylene upon which metal grommets are placed at each corner and also additional ones spaced at 18 inches. This makes sure that the tarp can be tied down quite easily. This particular tarp can be used for multiple purposes such as on car floors, wood, construction sites, etc.

10' x 10' Super Heavy Duty 16 Mil Brown Poly Tarp Cover - Thick Waterproof, UV Resistant, Rip and...
13,058 Reviews
10' x 10' Super Heavy Duty 16 Mil Brown Poly Tarp Cover - Thick Waterproof, UV Resistant, Rip and...
  • EXTRA THICK & STRONG: The high quality of this protective tarp is amazing: it has a 16 mil thickness, 8oz per square yard, and a 16 x 16 weave count. This has the strength and durability you need.
  • ALL WEATHER PROTECTION: Rain or shine, snow or wind this heavy tarp can handle it all! It is UV resistant, water proof and weather proof, and can withstand storms and the elements outdoors.

[wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”PROS:”]

  • It is light in weight
  • Can withstand any weather condition
  • Quite thick and strong
  • Quite versatile

[/wpsm_pros][/wpsm_column]

[wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”][wpsm_cons title=”CONS:”]

  • Some customers have noticed leakage
  • Not the most durable

[/wpsm_cons][/wpsm_column]

What Material Is A Tarp Made Of?

The type of material used to create a tarp determines its suitable area of use. Some commonly used materials include polyethylene, silnylon and cuben fire. Now, it is up to the user what suits their requirements but here is a breakdown of each of the materials above:

1. Polyethylene

Easily the most popular plastic in the world, polyethylene also manages to sneak into the tarp business. As per its performance, polyethylene based tarps are one of if not the sturdiest ones available at the moment. They are also quite easy to tie down. Since they are a plastic, they are also quite cheap comparatively.

2. Silnylon

Made by combining thin woven nylon fabric with liquid silicone, Silnylon is another great tarp material. Similar to polyethylene, it is cheap and durable. Adding to that, it also comes with the benefit of being waterproof and lightweight. Overall, a material that pretty much has it all.

3. Cuben Fibre

Dyneema Composite Fabric (commonly known as Cuben Fire) is another commonly used tarp material. It has a stretchy nature that is ideal for heavy duty applications. Though not as durable as polyethylene and silnylon, it is quite strong in its own right. In terms of weight, it does not weigh much. Being waterproof is another one of its attributes.

How Do You Use A Heavy Duty Tarp?

Heavy duty tarps have a number of different uses. Here are a few of the most common uses of tarps:

Protecting your roof after damage from a storm

If you are facing storm damage to your roof, you will need to find temporary protection until you can get it fixed. Lightweight tarps are not heavy enough to do this, and can easily be ripped or torn. Heavyweight tarps, on the other hand, are made for stormy weather and can help to keep rain, water, and mold and mildew away until you have time to make the necessary repairs.

How Do You Use A Heavy Duty Tarp?

Protecting your boat or vehicle from weather damage or dirt

Boats and cars are two of the biggest investments that you will make in your life, so you want to make sure that you protect them. And while you can put your car or boat in the garage to protect it from weather, you can’t use the same ideology to protect it from dirt and debris. But by covering your vehicle or boat with a heavy duty tarp, you can get all the protection you need from both the weather and dirt.

These are the two main uses for heavy duty tarps, but they can be used for other things as well. Whether you are protecting outdoor equipment from the elements, transporting valuable cargo, or trying to protect your furniture while painting your home, heavy duty tarps are all you need to keep your belongings safe.

Types Of Tarps

Now that we have classified tarps by their material, let us look at some industry terms that are used to categorize them. This will enable you to understand tarps deeply and eventually allow you to buy a product wisely.

Types Of Tarps

1. Vinyl

Vinyl or polyvinyl chloride based tarps are known to be the most durable type of tarps. That is because they come with cutting edge water and abrasion resistance properties. Other than that, they can also tackle acid, oil, grease, and mildew quite efficiently. Ideally, they are recommended for heavy duty applications such as agriculture.

2. Canvas

Usually made out of cotton fiber, Canvas tarps come with fire retarding properties. On the water side of things, they do provide moisture resistance. However, don’t expect them to be usable during continuous interaction with water as that is bound to cause leakage. They are also breathable and since they don’t catch fire, they are recommended for construction work or tents.

3. Poly

These contain all plastic based tarps most common of which is polyethylene. They are quite sturdy, provide world class resistance from water and are also quite good at resisting chemicals. Unlike canvas however, they are terrible near flames. Hence, that is one factor you must keep in mind before investing in a poly tarp.

4. Mesh

Mesh tarps are known to be the best in class when it comes to providing resistance from UV rays. They are 100% waterproof and also quite strong in nature. With a high thread count, they can also be quite durable. In terms of commonly known applications, they are used as garden shades and as golf course netting.

Benefits Of Tarps

Tarps are one of the most underrated protection item one can purchase right now. If you are also someone who isn’t aware of how beneficial they can be, here is a list that will change your mind.

Supreme protection for your property

If you are looking for a protective equipment to avoid damage to your property, tarps are just the product you are looking for. Most of them are flame retardant and also waterproof. This covers two of the primary modes of assault our items face these days. Additionally, tarps are also cheap and breathable so they won’t be a hassle to maneuver.

Versatile

Tarps are easily one of the most versatile items out there. They are cheap, breathable, provide supreme protection and are quite nimble. This makes them usable in almost every industry imaginable. If you own a farming land, you can use them to protect your fields, sports personnel can use them as netting and construction companies can use them to protect their sites. In simple words, the possibilities are endless with tarps.

Covers your floors

Since they are breathable and sturdy, tarps are a great choice to cover your floors. Let’s say you have a basement or a garage, covering them with tarp will make sure that what’s underneath does not face any damage at all. You can also them while painting work is going on in your property. However, the best spot for floor covering these days would have to be at the gyms considering how much people love banging their weights after a good lift.

Reusable

Tarps are one of the sturdiest items on the market right now. They are not your use once and dispose immediately kind of product. Hence, you can look at them as a one-time-investment. And since they aren’t that costly in the first place, why wouldn’t you invest in them?

Can withstand every weather

Though not every tarp material is applicable for this, most popular tarps are designed in a way that allows them to withstand any weather condition. Even if you don’t get one that is weatherproof, it will still last you quite a while as in even the worst case scenario, tarps are only unsuitable for one weather type. For example, canvas tarps aren’t the best for protection against consistent drizzling but can last in any other condition put in front of it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What is the most durable tarp?

The most durable type of tarp on the market is Vinyl. Vinyl tarps provide you with strong protection. They are waterproof, and are very difficult to stress or tear. They are very handy and may outperform other material types in extremely cold weather conditions.

Q. How thick is a heavy duty tarp?

Heavy duty tarps can range in thickness, and can be anywhere from 4-16 mm thick. Though it is worth noting that you should prioritize the material used over thickness.

Q. Are Canvas tarps waterproof?

No. Canvas tarps are water-resistant, but they are not waterproof. This means that the canvas is coated with wax to help repel moisture, but it is not 100% waterproof. Canvas tarps are designed to be breathable, and when waterproofed much of that breathability is lost.

Q. What tarps are waterproof?

No matter what type of tarp material you buy, there are always waterproof and water resistant tarps available. It’s not the material that is used that matters, it’s the combination of coatings that have been used that makes a tarp waterproof or not. Always be sure to check labels before buying a tarp to determine whether it is actually water proof, or just water resistant.

A Find Word – Our Personal Recommendation

In conclusion, there are many different types of tarps that you can buy. They come in all different sizes, materials, and coatings to serve a variety of different purposes. When buying a heavy duty tarp, always make sure that you choose quality over cost. Otherwise, you could end up having to buy a new tarp sooner than you’d hoped.

On an ending note, we personally recommend you to buy:

20x30 Multi-Purpose Silver/Brown Heavy Duty DRY TOP Poly Tarp (20'x30')
806 Reviews
20x30 Multi-Purpose Silver/Brown Heavy Duty DRY TOP Poly Tarp (20'x30')
  • FULL SIZE - Our tarps are cut larger so they finish true to size (+/- 3%). For example, an 8x10 is realy 8' x 10'!

A tightly woven polyethylene fabric that is waterproof, mildew resistant and UV resistant. What you’re getting is a supreme quality tarp from a reliable brand. No brainer for all kinds of purposes with the exception of places liable to flames.

Last update on 2024-03-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. WaterFilterly is user-supported. We might receive a commission on any purchase you make through clicking links on this page.

Similar Posts