In the past, what became known as a tarpaulin was frequently used by sailors on boats as covers for objects. Nowadays, whilst still used as covers to protect equipment, tarpaulins have a wide variety of uses. Here are a few of the uses for tarpaulins in the modern world.
Camping
Tarpaulins can be used to provide cover during camping trips, either as cover for a public area or a tent and sometimes as a makeshift shelter itself. Tarpaulins can also be used as groundsheets.
Many different types of tarpaulin are used, but nylon based tarpaulins are often considered to be relatively light whilst still quite robust.
Silnylon in particular is used by backpackers who want to keep loads lighter.
Polyester tarpaulins may also be used, since it makes a good shelter from the sun.
Tarpaulin tents allow the occupants to stay “closer to nature”, but offer less protection from the weather and insects.
Building and D.I.Y.
Builders can frequently be seen using tarpaulins on scaffolding to protect their work areas from the weather. Tarpaulins can also be used by people for simple D.I.Y. projects, such as protecting surfaces whilst decorating.
Storing firewood
Some people place tarpaulins over log stores in order to protect firewood. Logs can also be placed on a tarpaulin to keep them out of direct contact with any water in the soil.
However, problems can occur when storing firewood under a tarpaulin as water can get trapped, which will prevent the logs from drying and encourage rot.
It is advised that you leave the sides of the structure exposed to let air flow through freely, allowing water to escape.
…and even as a water slide
As bizarre as it may seem, it is possible to make a homemade water slide using just a tarpaulin and a slippery liquid such as washing-up liquid or bubble bath. And a reasonably steep hill, of course.
Can tarpaulins scratch what they are covering?
It is possible for tarpaulins to scratch whatever object they are covering, and, in the case of objects such as cars, paint and aluminium can become damaged. If they are not tied down correctly, ropes can also cause damage.
Polycarbonate (a type of plastic) eyelets are useful because they do not scratch.
When used to cover thatched roofing, it is possible for tarpaulins to cause damage. Thatch is also liable to deteriorate in quality should it be already wet when you cover it.
