Poly (Polyethylene) vs. Vinyl (PVC) Tarps: Which One Should You Choose?
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Time to read 2 min
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Time to read 2 min
Tarpaulins, commonly known as tarps, are large, flexible, waterproof sheets used to protect items from environmental elements like rain, sun, and wind. They’re essential across a wide range of industries—construction, agriculture, logistics, and even sports. However, not all tarps are made the same. The material you choose plays a major role in durability, flexibility, waterproofing, and cost.
The two most popular materials are:
Understanding the characteristics of these materials helps you pick the right tarp for your specific needs.
Steel Guard Safety and other manufacturers offer heavy-duty poly tarps with reinforced hems, waterproof interiors, and up to 300 PSI tensile strength for industrial-level protection.
Companies like Big Top Manufacturing rely exclusively on PVC for large-scale fabric structures due to its superior strength and performance.
Polyethylene is a thermoplastic polymer made from ethylene. It’s one of the most widely used plastics in the world and comes in various forms:
PVC is a synthetic thermoplastic made from ethylene and chlorine. It’s available in:
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your best tarp depends on your specific use case:
If your project demands rugged durability, investing in PVC tarps is worth the higher price. For everyday coverage, poly tarps offer great value and versatility.
If you're unsure which tarp is best for your application, Saraglove is here to help. With decades of experience in industrial-grade protective gear, our team can guide you to the right tarp material and strength rating for your specific needs. Visit Saraglove.com to explore our full selection.