A tarp is a large sheet of strong, flexible, water resistant or waterproof material. Usually, cloths such as canvas coated with plastic or latex are used to make tarps. Generally reinforced grommets at the corners or sides form attachment points for rope, so that the tarp can be tied down or suspended. Nowadays, tarps are sometimes made from woven polyethylene as well. Such tarps are called Polytarps. Tarps have been used for a long time to protect boats from the weather and to cover them.

Types of boat tarps:

Tarps are primarily classified on a basis of their material. Some common types of tarps are:

Poly tarps: These are the most commonly used tarps, and provide excellent cover from rain. The material is high-density resin, with heavy-duty grommets which complete the tarp. These poly tarps are mildew proof, tear resistant, acid resistant, and can be easily used in sub arctic temperatures.

Canvas tarps: These kinds of tarps are hemmed and stitched all round and reinforced. The reinforcement is made of eyelets, which are composed of materials that will not rust easily. They are better used for outdoor storage etc.

Mesh tarps: They are also called Shade Screens. They are not very good for use as boat tarps, and can be used in light breezes only.

Most boat tarps can be purchased without any fittings, so they are usually sold in pre-standardized shapes that will fit just about all kinds of boats. If the boat is made of wood, then using a mildew proof tarp is a good idea. Traditional boat covers are out of fashion, but tarps are in. Tarp repair kits are easily available, and if you are sailing they are a good idea, as they can tear.

There are many new tarp designs made everyday, as people have started taking an interest in them finally. If you want, you can get a boat tarp customized for yourself. The tarp is also useful in protecting the boat from parasites. This is why most seasoned boat owners always buy the boat tarp first, then buy anything else for their boats afterwards.

The tarp is used along with rope, which helps owners tie the tarp to their boat without any gaps, by putting the rope through the D hole. The proper customized boat tarps may be expensive, but they serve a good purpose of protecting your boat. Boat tarps are an excellent way to protect boats against every kind of weather.