Comparing Canvas vs. Polyethylene Tarpaulin Sheets

For multi-purpose coverings for outdoor and industrial applications, few options are as practical as a tarpaulin sheet. To shield products from adverse weather, cover equipment, or build temporary canopies, Tarpaulin sheets have been go-to solutions in various industries. Two of the most sought-after varieties include canvas tarpaulins and polyethylene tarpaulins, each with its strengths and weaknesses.

Prior to purchasing a large tarpaulin, waterproof tarpaulin, or another kind, there are differences between polyethylene and canvas that you must be aware of. The following article offers a comprehensive comparison to assist you in making an educated decision. 

Overview of Tarpaulin Sheets

A tarpaulin sheet is a flexible, tough, and usually water-resistant material used to cover against sun, wind, rain, or dust. Tarpaulins are available in various materials, weights, and sizes, ranging from big tarpaulins for large coverages and heavy-duty ones for industrial use.

The most commonly used types are:

• Canvas Tarpaulins: Constructed from tightly woven cotton or cotton-polyester mix.

• Polyethylene (PE) Tarpaulins: Constructed of plastic-based woven cloth with laminated coating.

Both are practical but have slightly different functions, depending on durability, breathability, and weather resistance requirements.

Canvas Tarpaulin: Timeless and Robust

A canvas tarpaulin is a timeless choice popular for its natural appearance and breathability. Constructed mostly of cotton or cotton-polyester mix, canvas is heavier than polyethylene but has benefits in certain applications.

Key Features of Canvas Tarpaulins:

• Breathability: Unlike plastic, canvas provides air circulation, ensuring that there is no moisture trapped underneath. This is beneficial when covering objects that require ventilation.

• Durability: Canvas is tough and less prone to tears, particularly when wax or oil treated for waterproofing.

• Eco-Friendly: Because canvas tends to be cotton-based, it is biodegradable and even more environmentally friendly than synthetic tarps.

• Aesthetic Appeal: Canvas tarpaulins are commonly employed where appearance is critical, e.g., outdoor markets, cafes, or event stands.

Restrictions of Canvas Tarpaulins:

• Water Resistance: Canvas has innate water resistance but is not entirely waterproof unless treated. Contact with rain for extended periods can result in leaking.

• Weight: Pounds heavier than polyethylene, making them more difficult to handle and transport.

• Cost: A canvas tarpaulin tends to be more costly compared to a polyethylene counterpart.

Canvas tarps are ideal for industrial covers, camping, canopies, and commercial use where breathability and strength are needed.

Polyethylene Tarpaulin: Lightweight and Versatile

Polyethylene tarps, or PE tarpaulins, are the most prevalent and cost-effective type. They consist of woven plastic fibers with laminated coatings for extra protection.

Key Features of Polyethylene Tarpaulins

• Waterproof: Polyethylene tarps are mostly waterproof, which is ideal for outdoor covering in snowy or rainy conditions.

• Lightweight: They are lighter compared to canvas tarpaulins and hence easier to transport and handle, especially when handling large tarpaulins.

• Affordability: PE tarps are affordable, which makes them ideal for use either short term or long term.

• Variety: They come in a variety of sizes, thicknesses, and colors.

Polyethylene Tarpaulin Limitations

• Durability: They tend to tear when subjected to excessive stress and might not be as durable as Canvas Tarpaulin.

• UV Sensitivity: Prolonged sun exposure may make plastic tarps brittle and degrade.

• Non-Breathable: Limited airflow can allow trapped condensation, resulting in mold or rust on stored products.

Polyethylene tarps are most suited for construction sites, farms, home coverage, and temporary storage where affordability and water resistance are considerations.

Canvas vs. Polyethylene Tarpaulin: Head-to-Head Comparison

1. Water Resistance

• Canvas Tarpaulin: Water-resistant as a natural characteristic but needs treatment to make it completely waterproof. Best suited for taking short showers, not heavy rain.

• Polyethylene Tarpaulin: Waterproof in design, thus more dependable under harsh wet weather conditions.

Winner: Polyethylene Tarpaulin

2. Durability

• Canvas Tarpaulin: Extremely durable and resistant to wear and tear. Canvas tarp with proper maintenance can last years.

• Polyethylene Tarpaulin: Durable for the short term but deteriorates at a quicker rate when exposed to sunlight and extreme stress.

Winner: Canvas Tarpaulin

3. Weight and Handling

• Canvas Tarpaulin: Bulky and heavy, particularly in bigger sizes.

• Polyethylene Tarpaulin: Light and easy to fold, carry, and tie down.

Winner: Polyethylene Tarpaulin

4. Breathability

• Canvas Tarpaulin: Permits air to circulate, thus stopping condensation.

• Polyethylene Tarpaulin: Entirely non-breathable.

Winner: Canvas Tarpaulin

5. Cost

• Canvas Tarpaulin: Costlier due to materials and treatment.

• Polyethylene Tarpaulin: Cheap and easily sourced.

Winner: Polyethylene Tarpaulin

6. Environmental Impact

• Canvas Tarpaulin: Biodegradable and environmentally friendly.

• Polyethylene Tarpaulin: Plastic material contributing to waste problems.

Winner: Canvas Tarpaulin

Selecting the Appropriate Tarpaulin for Your Application

In making a decision between canvas and polyethylene tarps, ask yourself the following questions:

• Do you want a water-resistant tarpaulin for heavy rain? Use polyethylene.

• Do you want to allow air for covering machinery or wood? Use canvas.

• Is price your number one priority? Polyethylene is the cheapest.

• Do you require a big tarpaulin for outdoor functions or storage? Polyethylene tarps are more convenient.

• Are you looking for long-term investment and eco-friendliness? A canvas tarpaulin is more suitable.

In many cases, businesses and households may benefit from owning both types. A canvas tarpaulin provides strength and breathability for specific uses, while a polyethylene tarpaulin sheet offers waterproof, lightweight coverage for everyday needs.

Conclusion

Both polyethylene tarpaulins and canvas Tarpaulin Sheet has distinct advantages to offer. A canvas tarpaulin is noted for strength, breathability, and environmental sustainability, while a polyethylene waterproof tarpaulin is noted for low cost, light weight handling, and protection in all kinds of weather.

The ideal option is the one that suits your needs be it a big tarpaulin for concerts, agricultural tarpaulin sheet for farming, or canvas tarpaulin for permanent coverage. Knowing the difference among these materials will help you invest wisely and have the right protection, durability, and value for your money.