Waterproof tarpaulins are convenient tools that can also be quite useful. They are used to protect things like cars, boats, furniture, and crops, or used as temporary shelters. Since they are placed outside, they are exposed to the sun, rain, and dirt. If you want your tarpaulin to last for years, the way you store it is just as important as how you use it. A little attention before you tuck it away can save your tarpaulin from damage, mold, and cracking. Here we will go over the best methods to store your Waterproof Tarpaulin so it can be durable and useful for a long time!
Why Proper Storage Matters
A lot of people use a tarpaulin and then quickly fold it up without paying much attention. But when they store it when it’s wet or dirty, that’s when the problems start. Water or moisture can add to mold and mildew. Dirt weakens the fabric over time. It might even have been stored in the wrong place, like in direct sunlight or too close to sharp tools, creating holes or cracks. By putting in a few extra steps, you are protecting your investment. After all, a really good quality tarpaulin is expensive, and the right way to store it will save you from having to buy a new one too soon.
Cleaning Before Storage
Cleaning your tarpaulin is the first important step in storing it. You should never store your tarp if it is dirty or wet. When starting to clean it, you can shake off the debris that can easily come off, such as dust, leaves, or mud. In the case that the tarp is muddy or a dirty sticky mess, you can rinse it off with clean water – best done with a garden hose. For stubborn marks, wash with a damp cloth or sponge and a mild soap and water solution. Avoid strong chemicals, which could damage the waterproof barrier. Once you have washed it, do not forget to rinse the tarp again to ensure all soap is removed. Taking the time to clean the tarp keeps the material safe and fresh for next use.
Drying Your Tarpaulin
Drying is the second most important step after cleaning. Even a small amount of wetness can be troublesome. Mold and mildew can appear almost overnight on wet fabric, leaving behind black spots and an odor. Lay the tarp flat in the sun or hang it outside from a clothesline. Make sure both sides are dry before folding them. If the weather is wet and you can’t dry outdoors, take it indoors and set it in a dry, well-ventilated area. Again, be patient because even the tiniest of wet spots can be troublesome later on.
Folding the Tarpaulin
Once the Canvas Tarpaulin is clean and dry, it is simply a case of folding up the tarp. Folding it neatly will both limit creases and lessen the wear at the edges. Lay it flat and fold it in half then keep folding it in half until you have a manageable size. Don’t fold it up into a tight ball, as that will cause the waterproof coating, over time, to crack. A neat fold will also have the benefit of making it easier to find and use the next time you need the tarp.
Choosing the Right Storage Place
Where you keep your tarpaulin makes a big difference. Steer clear of locations that are damp, hot, and exposed to sunlight. A cool, dry place garage, shed, or closet, is the best location. Even away from heat sources like heaters and stoves, the heat can damage the material itself. Likewise, try not to stack anything heavy on top of it. This may cause some obvious, solid creases in the fabric, or it could weaken the fabric in some way. If you have multiple tarps, they can be stacked, but do so carefully beside each other or flat on a shelf. Otherwise, you may run into an issue of pressure marks.
Protecting against Pests and Damage
One other thing to consider is pests. Mice, and sometimes insects, will chew through tarpaulin if it is simply left on the ground. If it is well stored, in a plastic container with a lid, or a reasonable storage bag will keep dust, pests, and moisture away from your tarpaulin when it is being used again. You will find it will be just a good as it was when it was stored.
Checking Before the Next Use
When you are ready to use your tarpaulin again, you will want to do a quick inspection. Lay it down and assess it for small tears, holes, or weak places. If you see an issue, rectify it immediately with waterproof tape or a patch kit. Fixing a small tear at this point will stop it from becoming larger and more difficult to fix. If you make this simple habit part of your routine, you will also prolong the lifespan of your tarpaulin.
Conclusion
A waterproof tarpaulin is only as good as the care you give to it. Proper storage makes it much easier to access it, still clean, still strong and ready to go when you need it. If you clean it, dry it, fold it, and place it somewhere safe, you also protect it from the mold, bugs, and deterioration that can easily occur. Also, these steps take little time but save you money and headaches. Properly look after your tarpaulin and you will be rewarded with many seasons of faithful service.
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