Waterproof tarps are quite useful. People use them for camping, farming, covering cars, boats, and outdoor furniture. They are very durable and can last a long time, but they can also tear. A tear can happen from a sharp object or strong wind or being mishandled. However, the good news is that you will not always have to discard them when they are torn. In simple steps you can take to repair the tear in your Tarpaulin Sheet. Depending on your repair, you may find out your tarp can be used for an additional long period.
Why Repair Your Tarpaulin?
Fixing a tear is less expensive than buying a new one. It helps you avoid wasting a product that is still useful, too. A small tear can become larger very quickly. Once it becomes larger, the tarpaulin may not protect your items from the rain or sun. Fixing the tear when it is small ensures it is still waterproof and durable.
Cleaning the Area Around the Tear
The first thing you need to do when repairing a waterproof tarpaulin is clean the area first. Dirt, dust, and oil can prevent tape or glue from bonding. Lay your tarpaulin flat on a clean surface. Using a soft cloth with warm water and a mild detergent, clean the area around the damaged area. Be sure to clean an area that is significantly wider than the actual tear. Once you are finished cleaning, let the area dry completely before moving to the next step.
Small Tears and Holes
If the tear in the tarpaulin is small in size, you can use waterproof repair tape. Repair tape is tape made specifically for patching things like tents, tarps, and other outdoor items. You can cut a piece of tape that is just a bit bigger than the tear, and then press it firmly over the hole. You can use your fingers to smooth any air bubbles. You could also then do a second piece of tape on the other side of the tarpaulin for added strength, if applicable.
Larger Tears
For larger tears, you will want to use a patch. A patch could be either another piece of tarpaulin or very heavy fabric. You will want to cut the patch larger than the tear, at least two inches bigger on each side. You will then put waterproof adhesive glue around the perimeters of the tear itself. Set the patch in place over the adhesive and press down firmly. You could also apply both glue and some repair tape as well for more hold. You may also want to apply another patch to the other side of the fabric, if applicable, to add more strength.
Sewing for Strong Repairs
If you want to extend the lifespan of your repair, sewing can be an option. You will need a heavy-duty needle and strong nylon or polyester thread. Stitch the edges of the tear together. After you have stitched the area, apply waterproof sealant or tape over the stitching to reduce any risk of water leaking. Sewing works best for straight tears, and this can be more time-consuming than taping or gluing.
Allow the Repair to Cure
After taping, patching, or sewing the Heavy Duty Tarpaulin, you have to PRAY the repair cures. If you glued, check the drying time on the product. Some glues can take up to 24 hours to cure completely. Do not fold or put stress on the repaired area until you are certain it is ready; this will make the repair last longer.
Testing the Repair
Test the repair before using the tarpaulin again – pour a small amount of water on the repaired area. If water does not seep through, the patch worked. If water leaks through the area, you might have to add more tape, glue, or a second patch. Testing before use will prevent any surprises later, especially if you are using the tarpaulin in the rain.
Looking after Your Tarpaulin after the Repair
After the tarpaulin is repaired, do your best to care for it to avoid further damage. When you are not using the tarpaulin, always fold it up and store it in a dry location. Keep the tarpaulin away from objects with sharp corners. If you are using the tarpaulin outdoors, make sure it is tied down properly to prevent the wind from flapping your tarp around. Ongoing management will help to keep the tarpaulin and your repair in the best condition.
When to Replace Instead of Repair
While most small and medium-sized tarpaulin tears can be repaired, it is sometimes unfeasible to do so. If you have a tarpaulin that has numerous holes, or one that is frayed, torn, or thin, it might be simpler to consider replacing it altogether. No matter what way you repair a tarpaulin, there isn’t a lot of advancement you can make if the material itself is going weak. The time and trouble you save getting a new, strong tarpaulin may be worth the price. Read This
Conclusion
Waterproof tarpaulins are useful objects that often protect various belongings in our everyday lives. One tear might feel like an end, but using simple fixes such as tape, patches, stitching, and glue, you can revive your tarpaulin. Repairing is simple, economical, and better for the environment. Remember to act quickly, clean the area, and use the right fix for the size of the tear. With some proper care, your tarpaulin will continue to serve you for several seasons.
