Covering vehicles, equipment, hay bales and piles of supplies with durable Heavy Duty Tarpaulin contributes to smooth operations throughout the year. When it rains, snows or the sun beats down, your valuable assets remain protected and productive.

Protect Equipment and Crops from the Elements

Whether it’s tractors, trailers or harvested crops waiting to be processed, heavy use equipment and supplies require sheltering from sun, wind and precipitation to avoid damage, rot and loss of quality over time. A good heavy duty tarp keeps the elements at bay.

Create a Temporary Shelter for Livestock

Temporary livestock shelters made from extra heavy tarps provide vital cover during storms or extreme temperatures. Animals remain stress-free and productive. You can also construct a clean workshop under Waterproof Tarpaulin by the side of the field for equipment repairs and maintenance out of the elements. Tarps create an impromptu shelter.

Benefits of Agricultural Tarps

There are several key benefits that farmers can gain from investing in durable heavy duty tarps:

Prevent water damage

Tarps can prevent water seepage into hay, wood chips, mulch, compost piles and other supplies stored outside which helps them retain quality for continued use or resale.

Protection from UV rays

Ultraviolet light from the sun can cause equipment like vehicles and plastic materials to break down more rapidly. Keeping UV exposure to a minimum via tarps helps extend the life of exposed assets.

Reduce photosynthesis and rotting

For stored crops like harvested grains or mulch piles, tarping blocks sunlight penetration which prevents unwanted photosynthetic activity that can lead to heating, rotting or sprouting.

Create clean working areas

Tarps are useful for defining designating temporary workspaces like those needed for vehicle repairs directly in farm fields, keeping the area clear of debris.

Construct livestock shelters

As mentioned earlier, tarps can be assembled into rudimentary shelters shielding animals from storms and temperature fluctuations to improve their health and welfare.

Choosing the Right Tarp Material

With various tarp material types on the market, selecting the appropriate option involves considering the expected conditions and intended usage. Here are some notes on common agricultural tarp materials:

Polyethylene (PE)

Inexpensive and lightweight, but PE tarps have relatively low durability and are best suited for light use like covering vehicles. Over time they degrade more rapidly in sun/elements.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

More weather-resistant than PE, PVC tarps are more puncture and tear-resistant when new. They retain flexibility in cold and may last a few years.

Polyester

Resists mold and mildew better than the above options. The reinforced polyester thread provides strength handling heavy loads of hay or machinery in storage. It retains strength longer in sunlight.

Tarp Installation and Maintenance for Farms

Proper installation and regular maintenance extends the usable life of heavy duty tarps on the farm:

Grommets and rope ties:

Grommets and rope ties work well for individual hay bales and other supplies that can be grouped closely together. Space ties approximately 2 feet apart around the bales.

Ground-based tarps:

Ground-based tarps require secure anchoring on all four sides to prevent flapping in winds.Hammer tent stakes or sandbags along the edges spaced every 3 feet or less depending on size.

Overlapping panels:

Overlapping panels should face away from prevailing winds when covering large piles. Secure overlaps along the upwind edges first before anchoring rest of tarp.

Inspect tarps regularly:

Inspect tarps regularly for damage like tears, holes or detachment around anchoring points. Make repairs with heavy duty tape before issues worsen from continued weathering.

Store tarps clean and dry:

Store tarps clean and dry when not in use to prevent premature breakdown. Hang indoors or fold carefully. Over time, consider replacing worn tarps to maintain full protective capabilities.

FAQs

How long do agricultural tarps typically last?

The lifespan of a tarp can range from 1-5 years depending on the material, thickness, and weather/UV exposure. Polyethylene tarps may only last 1-2 seasons, while 10 oz polyester can withstand 5 years or more of heavy use with proper care.

What is the best way to store tarps over winter?

Fold tarps cleanly and store in a dry area out of direct sunlight like a barn or shed. Hang heavier tarps to prevent creasing/cracking rather than stacking folded. Avoid leaving tarps bundled outdoors through temperature swings.

How can I repair a damaged tarp?

Small punctures or tears can be patched on both sides using heavy duty tarp repair tape made for materials like polyethylene and polyester. For larger holes, an overlapping tarp patch works well. Retire tarps that are severely weathered, cracked, or develop multiple repairs.

Do tarps need to be replaced on a set schedule?

It’s best not to rely strictly on time but rather inspect tarps for wear regularly. Signs like fading, stretching, cracking or holes mean reduced functionality. Thicker tarps tend to last longer with proper care but high UV areas may need replacing more often to maintain protection.

Conclusion

Heavy duty tarps are a worthwhile investment that any farm can benefit from. When selected based on intended usage conditions and material strength ratings, tarps protect valuable equipment, stored crops and livestock from sun, rain, snow and other environmental threats. With proper installation utilizing effective anchoring techniques, even the toughest tarps withstand seasonal winds and weather.

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