Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, is one of the most frequently used plastics in the world. In fact, it is estimated that over 40 million tons of PVC are used every year, and this number is expected to grow over the next several years. PVC is used in hundreds of different ways. It is used to create credit cards, medical devices, children’s toys, raincoats, shower curtains, and more. In addition to these uses, this popular material is also used to create tarps.
PVC is one of many materials that is used to create tarps. Some of the other common materials that are used to create tarps include canvas, mesh, and vinyl. When should you use a PVC tarp instead of one of the other options available? Here are some of the most common uses of PVC tarps:
Construction Sites
It’s common for construction companies to use PVC tarps while working on construction sites. The tarps are thrown over heavy machinery and other equipment found on construction sites in order to protect it when it is not in use. Heavy machinery and equipment is often left on-site even when the workers go home because it is too difficult to transport back and forth everyday. PVC tarps are used to protect equipment and machinery because of their resistance to various environmental elements, including water, wind, and UV rays. These tarps are also extremely durable, which is why construction workers trust them to protect expensive equipment and machinery.
Camping
PVC tarps are perfect for outdoor use, so they are often used on campsites as well. A PVC tarp can be tossed over firewood to ensure it does not get ruined in a rainstorm. It can also cover supplies that you need to protect while in the wilderness. Many campers even use PVC tarps to create a makeshift tent that provides protection from the sun, wind, and rain. If you already have a tent, place a PVC tarp inside to protect the bottom from damage. These are just a handful of ways that PVC tarps are used on campsites. Because these tarps are so useful while camping, it’s a good idea to pack a few PVC tarps in your bag if you’re planning to spend a few nights under the stars in the future.
In the Garage
Because PVC tarps are so durable, they are often used to protect valuable belongings that homeowners store in their garage. For example, a PVC tarp can cover bicycles, boats, motorcycles, tool boxes, and other prized possessions. Even though these items are not exposed to many environmental elements in the garage, the PVC tarp adds another layer of protection to ensure your items are safe.
Home Improvement Projects
Handymen typically use PVC tarps in a number of ways when working on home improvement projects. If you’re planning on painting the walls, cover the floors and furniture with PVC tarps first. Paint that splashes or drips off of the walls will land on the PVC tarp instead of your furniture or floors. PVC tarps are also perfect for outdoor painting jobs since they are so resistant to harsh environmental elements. Throw a PVC tarp over your landscaping before you start to paint to make sure you don’t splash paint onto your beautiful flowers.
Workers may need to walk in and out of your home repeatedly while working on a renovation, repair, or remodel. As they walk in and out, they could bring dirt and debris into your home and ruin your carpets. To prevent this from happening, it’s best to lay PVC tarps down on your flooring before inviting workers inside. They can walk across the PVC tarps as they move in and out of your home so they don’t accidentally stain your carpeting with their dirty shoes.
If you’re completely renovating part of your home, it’s important to block this area off until the work has been done. Hanging a PVC tarp in the doorway can prevent dust from the construction site from flying through the rest of your home. It can also prevent little ones and animals from accidentally walking into a construction zone within your home. Since PVC is transparent, you can still keep an eye on the work that’s being done without removing the tarp or putting yourself in harm’s way.
PVC tarp can also come in handy when your home is in need of repair, but you must wait for a repairman to arrive. For example, let’s say you discover a leak in your roof, but no one can come to your home to repair it for several hours. Instead of letting the water damage the inside of your home, lay a PVC tarp down to protect your home until help arrives. These are just some of the many ways that PVC tarps are used in home improvement projects.
Transporting Equipment Via Truck
If you need to transport equipment or tools in your pick-up truck, it’s smart to cover everything with a PVC tarp before you hit the road. This is especially true if there’s rain or high winds in the weather forecast. Before you start the ignition, make sure that the PVC tarp is securely in place so it does not fly off once the truck begins moving. As long as it’s in place, it will keep everything safe until you’ve reached your final destination.
As you can see, PVC tarps are versatile and can be used in many different situations. If you’re interested in purchasing a PVC tarp, contact Chicago Canvas & Supply. We are your leading source for backdrops, textiles, theatre fabrics, tarps, drop cloths, and more. We are happy to send free material samples to our clients. To place a request for samples, contact us today by calling 1-866-389-2218 or emailing email@chicagocanvas.com.