A comprehensive comparison of PE (Polyethylene) and PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) tarpaulins to help you make the right choice for your needs, covering material properties, applications, advantages, disadvantages, and frequently asked questions.

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Introduction

Tarpaulins, commonly referred to as tarps, are versatile and indispensable tools. They serve a wide range of purposes, from protecting cargo during transport to providing shelter in outdoor activities. With numerous materials available, it can be challenging to choose the perfect tarp for your needs. This article will provide an in-depth comparison between PE Tarpaulin (Polyethylene) and PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) tarpaulins, discussing their properties, applications, and factors to consider when choosing the right tarpaulin for your specific requirements.

Understanding Tarpaulins

What are Tarpaulins?

Tarpaulins are large sheets of flexible, durable, and often waterproof material used to protect, cover, or secure objects. They come in various sizes, colors, and materials, such as poly tarps, canvas, and vinyl.

Common Materials Used for Tarpaulins

There are several tarpaulin materials fabrics, including but not limited to:

• PE (Polyethylene) Tarpaulin
• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Tarpaulin
• Canvas Tarpaulin
• Vinyl Tarpaulin

PE Tarpaulins

What are PE Tarpaulins?

PE Tarpaulins, also known as polyethylene tarps or HDPE Tarpaulin, are made of woven polyethylene strips and coated with a layer of low-density polyethylene (LDPE). These tarps are lightweight, durable, and typically more affordable than other tarp materials.

Advantages of PE Tarpaulins

PE Tarpaulins offer several benefits, such as:

• Cost-effective
• Lightweight and easy to handle
• Water-resistant and waterproof
• UV-treated for sun protection
• Resistant to mold, mildew, and rot
• Available in various sizes and colors

Disadvantages of PE Tarpaulins

Despite their advantages, PE Tarpaulins also have some drawbacks:

• Less durable than PVC Tarpaulins
• Prone to punctures and tears
• Not as environmentally friendly as canvas tarps

Common Applications of PE Tarpaulins

PE Tarpaulins are widely used for:

• Transport vehicle tarpaulin for cargo protection
• Covering materials and equipment in construction sites
• Agricultural farming tarpaulin for crop protection
• Outdoors garden tarpaulin for landscaping and gardening projects
• Temporary shelters and covers for camping and outdoor events

PVC Tarpaulins

What are PVC Tarpaulins?

PVC Tarpaulins are made from high-strength polyester fabric coated with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) on both sides. They come in two main types: PVC laminated tarpaulin and PVC coated tarpaulin. These tarps are heavy-duty, highly durable, and resistant to various environmental factors.

Advantages of PVC Tarpaulins

Some of the benefits of using PVC Tarpaulins include:

• High durability and tear resistance
• Water-resistant and waterproof
• UV-treated for sun protection
• Resistant to chemicals, oil, and grease
• Flame retardant
• Available in various sizes, colors, and thicknesses

Disadvantages of PVC Tarpaulins

PVC Tarpaulins have some downsides as well:

• Higher cost compared to PE Tarpaulins
• Heavier and harder to handle
• Less environmentally friendly due to the use of PVC

Common Applications of PVC Tarpaulins

PVC Tarpaulins are ideal for:

• Heavy-duty tarpaulin applications such as industrial covers and equipment protection
• Building construction tarpaulin for scaffolding, debris containment, and weather protection
• Truck and trailer covers
• Greenhouse covers and agricultural applications
• Outdoor storage covers
• Camping and recreational use

PE vs. PVC Tarpaulin Comparison

Material Properties

While PE and PVC Tarpaulins are water-resistant, waterproof, and UV-treated, PVC Tarpaulins are generally more durable, tear-resistant, and resistant to chemicals, oil, and grease.

Cost

PE Tarpaulins are more cost-effective than PVC Tarpaulins, making them a popular choice for those with budget constraints.

Durability

PVC Tarpaulins offer superior durability and tear resistance compared to PE Tarpaulins, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications and long-term use.

Environmental Impact

PE and PVC Tarpaulins have a higher environmental impact than more eco-friendly alternatives like canvas tarps. PVC Tarpaulins are generally considered less environmentally friendly due to the use of PVC, a material known for its negative impact on the environment.

How to Choose the Right Tarpaulin for Your Needs

Assess Your Requirements

Before selecting a tarpaulin, consider factors such as the intended purpose, required durability, environmental conditions, and budget constraints.

Consider Material Properties

Evaluate the material properties of PE and PVC Tarpaulins, keeping in mind factors such as water resistance, UV protection, and durability.

Evaluate Cost and Environmental Impact

Compare the costs of PE and PVC Tarpaulins, as well as their environmental impact, to make an informed decision based on your budget and eco-consciousness.

Consult a Professional

If you&#;re unsure which tarpaulin material is best for your needs, consult a tarpaulin supplier or industry professional for expert advice.

Conclusion

PE and PVC Tarpaulins offer unique advantages and disadvantages, making them suitable for different applications. PE Tarpaulins are cost-effective and lightweight, making them ideal for temporary uses and lighter tasks. On the other hand, PVC Tarpaulins are more durable and resistant to various environmental factors, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications and long-term use.

When choosing between PE and PVC Tarpaulins, consider your specific requirements, the material properties, costs, and environmental impact. Consulting a professional tarpaulin supplier can also help you make the right choice based on your needs.

FAQs

Q1: Are PE Tarpaulins waterproof?

Yes, PE Tarpaulins are water-resistant and waterproof, making them suitable for various applications where water protection is necessary.

Q2: Can PVC Tarpaulins be used for outdoor storage?

Yes, PVC Tarpaulins are ideal for outdoor storage due to their durability, water resistance, and UV protection.

Q3: How do I clean and maintain my tarpaulin?

Cleaning and maintenance depend on the material of the tarpaulin. Generally, you can clean your tarp using mild soap, water, and a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and allow the tarp to air dry before folding or storing it. Regular inspections for wear and tear can help prolong the life of your tarpaulin.

Q4: Are there eco-friendly alternatives to PE and PVC Tarpaulins?

Yes, canvas tarps are a more environmentally friendly alternative to PE and PVC Tarpaulins. Canvas tarps are made from natural materials such as cotton or hemp and are biodegradable.

Q5: Can I get a custom-sized tarpaulin?

Many tarpaulin suppliers, such as Roctarps, offer custom-made tarpaulins tailored to your specific requirements.

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Cotton Vs Polyester Vs PVC

 

Display Modes 06-29-, 01:26 PM   #1 Yurts_latvia

Yurt Forum Youngin

Join Date: Apr

Posts: 25

Cotton vs Polyester vs PVC


I've been grateful for the feedback from Jafo and Bob Rowlands about yurt cover materials - yet it's such an important topic for yurts with constant innovations, so let us discuss this in more detail!



From what I understand:


Felt is a wonderful, warm, breathable and traditional cover in Central Asia, but less suitable for most of the west due more rainfall and birds taking the wool for nesting!



Weather-proofed cotton seems like the ideal option in the short-run - it's natural, breathable and almost fully waterproof with a tight weave and right treatment... And yet even the best Sunforger brand will only last a few years of constant exposure to Sun before degrading severely. Cotton also shrinks so this is an extra consideration when making a cover.


Polyester fabrics tend to be slightly less breathable than cotton, but are naturally more water-repellent and durable.



Cotton-polyester mixes incorporate the best of both...



Some more expensive mixes seem to include an acrylic coating and even hemp to increase the durability of polyester further.



(actually Hemp canvas sounds amazing from reports I've heard of the old army tents lasting a decade or more, but I've heard nothing about it being tried on yurts. I imagine it is rather heavy?)



In general though, these breathable,woven fabrics will tend to expire after 5 years or so at most if the yurt is up all the time.


That's why so many people have opted for PVC on permanent yurts, which is king in terms of waterproofing (100%) and durability (10 years or even more) but has the downside of being totally unbreathable, and off-gassing toxic vapours.



Jafo kindly explained in a related post that PVC gassing is normally reduced by inner layers preventing the gassing penetrating inside much... any further feedback on this issue, anyone?



Breathability could also likely be improved incorporating cotton or polyester walls - where 100% waterproofing is less critical.




Am I on the right track here, are my conclusions valid, from your experiences, dear fellows of the yurt?


Your sharing would likely help many more here



Thanks,


Charlie

Hey everyone,I've been grateful for the feedback from Jafo and Bob Rowlands about yurt cover materials - yet it's such an important topic for yurts with constant innovations, so let us discuss this in more detail!From what I understand:Felt is a wonderful, warm, breathable and traditional cover in Central Asia, but less suitable for most of the west due more rainfall and birds taking the wool for nesting!Weather-proofed cotton seems like the ideal option in the short-run - it's natural, breathable and almost fully waterproof with a tight weave and right treatment... And yet even the best Sunforger brand will only last a few years of constant exposure to Sun before degrading severely. Cotton also shrinks so this is an extra consideration when making a cover.Polyester fabrics tend to be slightly less breathable than cotton, but are naturally more water-repellent and durable.Cotton-polyester mixes incorporate the best of both...Some more expensive mixes seem to include an acrylic coating and even hemp to increase the durability of polyester further.(actually Hemp canvas sounds amazing from reports I've heard of the old army tents lasting a decade or more, but I've heard nothing about it being tried on yurts. I imagine it is rather heavy?)In general though, these breathable,woven fabrics will tend to expire after 5 years or so at most if the yurt is up all the time.That's why so many people have opted for PVC on permanent yurts, which is king in terms of waterproofing (100%) and durability (10 years or even more) but has the downside of being totally unbreathable, and off-gassing toxic vapours.Jafo kindly explained in a related post that PVC gassing is normally reduced by inner layers preventing the gassing penetrating inside much... any further feedback on this issue, anyone?Breathability could also likely be improved incorporating cotton or polyester walls - where 100% waterproofing is less critical.Am I on the right track here, are my conclusions valid, from your experiences, dear fellows of the yurt?Your sharing would likely help many more hereThanks,Charlie

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06-30-, 04:04 AM   #2 HawaiiYurts
Yurts of Hawaii

Industry Specialist

Join Date: Jul

Location: Volcano, Big Island, Hawaii

Posts: 251

My Yurt:

Re: Cotton vs Polyester vs PVC

In my experience, even yurts with a poly-vinyl cover 'breathe' to some extent because there are venting points at the bottom and top where the structure is not air tight.

Is the concern mold/mildew? If so, I have seen this completely remedied/prevented using vapor barrier material between the cover and lattice/rafters, such as reflective

insulation

with a simple poly-cotton liner to the inside. I've used the method on hundreds of yurts in Hawaii, a very humid climate, with near 100% success rate over the last 17 years.

Off gassing is minimized with the same technique, as Jafo mentioned, coupled with a

dome

that can remain open (but we are in a temperate climate - this is not part of the options available to those who need to keep the

dome

closed to retain heat).

Interesting subject, I look forward to hearing people's thoughts.

Great summary of the the subject matter! I'd love to hear more about why people think breathability is such a major factor in coverings for modern, North American styled yurts.In my experience, even yurts with a poly-vinyl cover 'breathe' to some extent because there are venting points at the bottom and top where the structure is not air tight.Is the concern mold/mildew? If so, I have seen this completely remedied/prevented using vapor barrier material between the cover and lattice/rafters, such as reflectivewith a simple poly-cotton liner to the inside. I've used the method on hundreds of yurts in Hawaii, a very humid climate, with near 100% success rate over the last 17 years.Off gassing is minimized with the same technique, as Jafo mentioned, coupled with athat can remain open (but we are in a temperate climate - this is not part of the options available to those who need to keep theclosed to retain heat).Interesting subject, I look forward to hearing people's thoughts.

TSRalex likes this.   06-30-, 09:36 AM   #3 Bob Rowlands

Yurt Forum Addict

Join Date: Nov

Posts: 2,166

Re: Cotton vs Polyester vs PVC

My experience is 100% cotton canvas with a sunforger type finish, in 17 oz. weight, is a fantastic yurt cover for one year. Extremely pleasant atmosphere in the yurt.

The second year is good but not AS good as the first, and the third year is noticeably poorer than the first two. After three years there is a RAPID decline in water shedding and overall performance, and structural integrity. The 'feel' inside the yurt just wasn't as nice.

IMO that is >incredibly good< for a natural cotton fabric. Imagine leaving a pair of blue jeans out in the sun for three years straight. That will give you an idea.

50/50 poly cotton blend untreated 12 oz. painters tarps from Depot were my yurt wall. They lasted longer, but they were wall cover not roof cover. The material and weave was more porous. Definitely pleasant to sit next to on a hot day. Lots of breathability.

I know zilch about other yurt cover materials from experience.

  06-30-, 10:11 AM   #4 TSRalex

Yurt Forum Addict

The company is the world’s best High Strength PVC Coated Tarpaulin supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.

Join Date: Jul

Location: Austria

Posts: 227

Re: Cotton vs Polyester vs PVC

Quote:

HawaiiYurts

Originally Posted by

Great summary of the the subject matter!

Quote:

HawaiiYurts

Originally Posted by

insulation

with a simple poly-cotton liner to the inside. I've used the method on hundreds of yurts in Hawaii, a very humid climate, with near 100% success rate over the last 17 years.

Is the concern mold/mildew? If so, I have seen this completely remedied/prevented using vapor barrier material between the cover and lattice/rafters, such as reflectivewith a simple poly-cotton liner to the inside. I've used the method on hundreds of yurts in Hawaii, a very humid climate, with near 100% success rate over the last 17 years.

Hemp fiber is over 4 m long, cotton fiber is only 2 cm long, the hemp fiber is 8 x stronger and about 4 x more durable than cotton fiber.

Fabrics made of hemp have a natural sheen and they behave similarly to silk - in summer they have a cooling effect and in winter they have a warming effect.

Hemp fabrics are very durable.

Another advantage is intensive

moisture

absorption and fast release, because materials made of hemp fiber are absorbent and dry very quickly.

The oxygen content in hemp fibers prevents the formation of bacteria, and because hemp fiber does not contain protein, there is no need for treatment against moths and beetles.

And the antimicrobial properties of hemp fiber are effective protection against mold growth.

Quote:

HawaiiYurts

Originally Posted by

I look forward to hearing people's thoughts.

What is your opinion about to have an additional 3D-Mesh-Layer between reflective insulation layer and the outer shell (PVC layer)?

Agree - thanks @Yurts_latviaI would opt for an fire retardand hemp liner as inner layer, because of the advantages over cotton:Hemp fiber is over 4 m long, cotton fiber is only 2 cm long, the hemp fiber is 8 x stronger and about 4 x more durable than cotton fiber.Fabrics made of hemp have a natural sheen and they behave similarly to silk - in summer they have a cooling effect and in winter they have a warming effect.Hemp fabrics are very durable.Another advantage is intensiveabsorption and fast release, because materials made of hemp fiber are absorbent and dry very quickly.The oxygen content in hemp fibers prevents the formation of bacteria, and because hemp fiber does not contain protein, there is no need for treatment against moths and beetles.And the antimicrobial properties of hemp fiber are effective protection against mold growth.You got mine above.What is your opinion about to have an additional 3D-Mesh-Layer between reflective insulation layer and the outer shell (PVC layer)?

  06-30-, 04:06 PM   #5 Yurts_latvia

Yurt Forum Youngin

Join Date: Apr

Posts: 25

Re: Cotton vs Polyester vs PVC



So Bob sounds like your poly-cotton painters tarps for walls weren't treated at all - did rain ever come through? Or did they ever go moldy?


TS, thanks a lot for your insights on hemp. Great to understand a bit more about its virtues.


Do you think if was waterproofed it would also hold up well as an outer cover for several years?


My current thinking of my ideal would be to have a single breathable cover like that for the summer (I just love the simplicity, breathability and light penetration of single layer) whilst perhaps the reflective insulation and pvc would be a good bet for the colder months.



I think having a pvc cover backup is a nice touch also if there's ever a problem with a more delicate material - you can be sure that stuff is pretty bomb-proof!


+ I wonder about woven materials under snow? Sheeting off drops of rain is one thing but being impermeable to a slowly melting foot of snow - that seems like a tall order!



Thanks all of you

Nice feedback guys!So Bob sounds like your poly-cotton painters tarps for walls weren't treated at all - did rain ever come through? Or did they ever go moldy?TS, thanks a lot for your insights on hemp. Great to understand a bit more about its virtues.Do you think if was waterproofed it would also hold up well as an outer cover for several years?My current thinking of my ideal would be to have a single breathable cover like that for the summer (I just love the simplicity, breathability and light penetration of single layer) whilst perhaps the reflective insulation and pvc would be a good bet for the colder months.I think having a pvc cover backup is a nice touch also if there's ever a problem with a more delicate material - you can be sure that stuff is pretty bomb-proof!+ I wonder about woven materials under snow? Sheeting off drops of rain is one thing but being impermeable to a slowly melting foot of snow - that seems like a tall order!Thanks all of you

TSRalex likes this.   06-30-, 04:47 PM   #6 Jafo

Administrator

Join Date: Jan

Posts: 2,403

My Yurt:

Re: Cotton vs Polyester vs PVC

Don't dismiss reflective materials for summer.. They reflect heat AWAY too. Yurts heat up very quick in the sun.

TSRalex likes this.   06-30-, 06:05 PM   #7 Bob Rowlands

Yurt Forum Addict

Join Date: Nov

Posts: 2,166

Re: Cotton vs Polyester vs PVC

poly cotton painters tarps are untreated, and as cheap as a tarp can get. But, for wall covering on a rustic camping yurt, ok. If my yurt was a primary residence, and not a camping yurt, no way.

Yes it molded but not as bad as the 100% cotton cover. The cotton roof cover had no mold until the waterproofing started to fail in a couple years. Hope this helps.

Thanks for info on hemp material. Doobie doobie do. haha

  07-01-, 12:36 AM   #8 TSRalex

Yurt Forum Addict

Join Date: Jul

Location: Austria

Posts: 227

Re: Cotton vs Polyester vs PVC

Quote:

Yurts_latvia

Originally Posted by

TS, thanks a lot for your insights on hemp. Great to understand a bit more about its virtues.

Do you think if was waterproofed it would also hold up well as an outer cover for several years?

During my evaluations for the right outer wall cover I found in an high-strength polyester fabric, with high UV resistance and a soft-PVC coating on both sides.
Thanks to the special surface sealing, durability and best dirt-repellence are ensured.
Properties:
Weight: 690 g/m²
Max. tensile strength: / N/5cm
Tear strength: 300/300 N
Surface: high gloss, lacquered - many colors
Membrane: flame retardant according to EN -1 and fungicide finish


BTW: An alternative possibility to the - in my previous post mentioned - inner liner with hemp, would be an mold resistant and dirt repellent cotton/polyester mixed fabric, which I found too during my search.

Properties:
Weight: 430 g/m²
Max. tensile strength: / N/5cm
Tear strength: 75/60 N
Surface: only in light sand color available
Membrane: fungicide finish

On fact, that I haven´t the experience with hemp as outer shell I need to ask my crystal sphere and got the answer: "YES, maybe better than cotton".During my evaluations for the right outer wall cover I found in an high-strength polyester fabric, with high UV resistance and a soft-PVC coating on both sides.Thanks to the special surface sealing, durability and best dirt-repellence are ensured.Properties:Weight: 690 g/m²Max. tensile strength: / N/5cmTear strength: 300/300 NSurface: high gloss, lacquered - many colorsMembrane: flame retardant according to EN -1 and fungicide finishBTW: An alternative possibility to the - in my previous post mentioned - inner liner with hemp, would be an mold resistant and dirt repellent cotton/polyester mixed fabric, which I found too during my search.Properties:Weight: 430 g/m²Max. tensile strength: / N/5cmTear strength: 75/60 NSurface: only in light sand color availableMembrane: fungicide finish

  07-01-, 10:28 AM   #9 TSRalex

Yurt Forum Addict

Join Date: Jul

Location: Austria

Posts: 227

Re: Cotton vs Polyester vs PVC

Quote:

Yurts_latvia

Originally Posted by

Quote:

TSRalex

Originally Posted by

On fact, that I haven´t the experience with hemp as outer shell I need to ask my crystal sphere and got the answer: "YES, maybe better than cotton".

Do you think if was waterproofed it would also hold up well as an outer cover for several years?

Is Hemp Really Stronger Than Steel? How?

Your question was somehow an incentive for me to look up again briefly regarding the robustness of hemp fabrics and I want to share one interesting link:

 

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