“heavy-duty” is basically meaningless unless there are specs to back it up
Yeah, that “heavy-duty” label is pretty much marketing noise. I’ve had tarps labeled “industrial strength” shred in a single windy week. Specs matter—mil thickness, UV rating, and actual weight per sq yd are what I look for. Grommets always go first, but sometimes the seams give out even sooner, especially if you’re stretching them over sharp corners. For longer-term setups, I’ve started using canvas tarps in some spots. They’re heavier and cost more, but they don’t get brittle like poly does in the sun. Not a perfect solution, but worth considering if you need something to last through more than one season.
I’ve seen a lot of “heavy-duty” tarps fail on job sites, especially once the wind picks up or they’re rubbing against anything sharp. Specs are everything—if it doesn’t list thickness and UV rating, I don’t trust it. I’ve had better luck with canvas too, though they’re a pain when wet. Poly gets brittle in our sun after just a season or two. For sheds, I always check welds and hardware—cheap connections rust out fast around here.
I get the frustration with poly tarps—they really don’t hold up to UV, especially in hotter climates. But I’m not totally sold on canvas either. In my experience, once it gets soaked and starts to mildew, you’re dealing with a whole different set of headaches. Have you looked into reinforced PVC or even recycled rubberized fabrics? They’re pricier, but I’ve seen them outlast both poly and canvas, and they’re less likely to tear on sharp corners. Hardware’s a whole other story... stainless is ideal, but the cost can be tough to swallow for bigger jobs.
Have you looked into reinforced PVC or even recycled rubberized fabrics? They’re pricier, but I’ve seen them outlast both poly and canvas, and they’re less likely to tear on sharp corners.
I’ve seen reinforced PVC hold up really well, especially in commercial settings where you get a lot of abrasion and sun exposure. The upfront cost stings, but when you factor in how often you’d be replacing poly or patching canvas, it starts to make sense. One thing I always wonder about is ventilation—ever had issues with condensation under those heavier tarps? That’s bitten me before when covering machinery long-term.