Poly Tarps Buying Guide: From Economy to Extra Heavy Duty
Walk into any hardware store and you will see a wall of blue and green tarps with confusing labels. Which one do you actually need? A polytarp, short for polyethylene tarp, is the most common type in the world, but the differences between a cheap one and a good one are huge. This guide builds a ladder from the lightest tarp to the toughest, so you can pick the right rung for your job.
What is a poly tarp?
A poly tarp is made from woven polyethylene threads, usually with a polyethylene coating on both sides. The weave gives strength, and the coating gives water resistance. Poly is lightweight, flexible, and does not rot or mildew the way natural fibers can.
It is the go-to material for covering things, because it balances cost, durability, and ease of use.
Rung 1: Economy
The economy tier is the lightest and cheapest. The Tarp Co.’s Green Economy Poly Tarp is listed as a closeout. Economy tarps suit short-term jobs: temporary covers, painting drop cloths, a weekend camping trip, or a quick cover before a storm.
Do not expect them to last through a season of sun and wind. They are a good-value choice when the job is brief.
Rung 2: Premium
The Silver and Blue Reversible Premium Poly Tarp sits in the middle. Premium tarps typically use a tighter weave, thicker coating, and better UV treatment than economy ones. The reversible silver and blue design gives you some control over how the tarp handles sun and heat.
Choose premium when you want a tarp that lasts for months rather than weeks, for general-purpose use around the house, yard, or farm.
Rung 3: Heavy duty
The Brown and White Reversible Heavy Duty Poly Tarp is a strong middle-to-upper option. The Tarp Co. also lists a Silver and Black Reversible Heavy Duty tarp as a closeout.
Heavy duty tarps have thicker threads, a heavier coating, more grommets, and stronger hems. They suit long-term outdoor covering, job sites, and equipment protection. This tier is where many practical users land, because it balances price and toughness.
Rung 4: Extra heavy duty
At the top of the poly range, The Tarp Co. lists:
Black and White Extra Heavy Duty Poly Tarp and Load Cover
White and Black Reversible Extra Heavy Duty Poly Tarp and Hay Cover
White and Black Reversible Multilayer Cross Laminate Hay Cover and Ultimate Multipurpose Tarp, listed as a new arrival
These are built for demanding use: local hauling, hay covering, and long-term outdoor protection. The cross laminate product is a different construction from woven poly, using multiple layers. Check its product page for specifics.
How to choose by use
If you are covering something for a day or two, go economy. If you want a general-purpose tarp that survives a season or more, go premium. If your tarp will sit outdoors for long periods or take regular abuse, go heavy duty. If you haul loads, cover hay, or need a tarp that will not quit, go extra heavy duty.
Color is not just looks
Poly tarps come in colors for a reason.
White and silver reflect sunlight, so they keep covered areas cooler. They are common for hay and for covering items sensitive to heat.
Black and brown absorb more heat and block more light. They are useful where you want to stay warm or prevent light from passing through.
Blue and green are the traditional general-purpose colors.
Reversible designs combine two colors so you can choose the side that suits the season.
Key specs to check
When comparing any two poly tarps, look at these.
Thickness (mil). More thickness generally means more durability.
Weave count and denier. Thicker threads and a tighter weave resist tearing.
Weight per square yard. Heavier usually means tougher.
UV treatment. Look for a UV inhibitor, especially if the tarp will sit in the sun.
Grommet spacing and material. Closer spacing and aluminum or reinforced grommets hold better.
Hem reinforcement. Rope in the hem and reinforced corners prevent edge failures.
For example, The Tarp Co.’s brown heavy duty tarp is about 10 to 11 mil with 14 x 14 weave and 3% UV treatment, while the extra heavy duty Loadsaver is about 13 to 14 mil with 1600 denier threads and a maximum 5% UV treatment.
Using a poly tarp properly
A few habits make a big difference.
Match the size to the job. Too small and the tarp will not cover or anchor properly. Too large and you have extra fabric flapping in the wind. Remember that finished sizes are slightly smaller than cut sizes.
Secure it evenly. Use all the grommets. Spread tension. A few tight points stress the tarp.
Create a slope. Water pooling on a tarp adds weight and can stretch it. Make sure rain runs off.
Protect from sharp edges. Use padding over corners that could cut the tarp.
Do not rely on a tarp to restrain a load. Use proper straps or chains for that.
Care and storage
Rinse off dirt and let the tarp dry completely before folding. Store out of direct sunlight in a cool, dry place. A mild soap and water cleaning is fine. Avoid harsh chemicals. Check grommets and corners for wear regularly.
A note on durability
Even the best poly tarp has a lifespan. Sunlight slowly breaks down polyethylene. UV inhibitors slow this process but do not stop it. A tarp left outdoors for years will eventually become brittle and crack. If you see chalking, stiffness, or small cracks, it is time to replace it.
Final thoughts
The best poly tarp is not the most expensive one. It is the one that matches your job. The Tarp Co. offers a full range, so you can step up or down depending on how long and how hard you plan to use the tarp. Start with the job, pick the rung on the ladder, and check the specs. That approach saves money and avoids disappointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a polytarp?
A polytarp is a tarp made from woven polyethylene with a protective coating.
What types of poly tarps does The Tarp Co. sell?
Economy, premium, heavy duty, and extra heavy duty poly tarps.
What are the poly tarps made of?
The company says its tarps are made from pure virgin resin.
Which tarp is best for hay?
The White and Black Reversible Extra Heavy Duty Hay Cover and the Multilayer Cross Laminate Hay Cover are designed for hay.
Are the tarps reversible?
Several are, including the silver and blue premium, brown and white heavy duty, and white and black extra heavy duty options.
Is shipping free?
The category page advertises free shipping on poly tarps.
How do I clean a poly tarp?
Use mild soap and water, then let it dry fully before storing.
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