Understanding the Colors of Tarps and Their Differences

Choosing the right color of tarps can be more important than you think!

Our Iowa acreage seemed to be a favorite burrowing ground for the woodchuck clan that lived in the area. Also known as groundhogs, the pesky critters dug holes all over our lawn, leaving bumpy mounds in the otherwise lush green. With dismay we noticed that the lawn was not the only tunneled area; groundhogs also busied themselves by digging tunnels under and into our barn, then chewing on its wooden structure. 

My husband, determined to rehome some of the “problems,” placed a live trap behind the barn, covered it with a small tarp, and waited overnight for results. As he approached the covered cage the next morning, noises sounded from under the tarp. Obviously, one of the vandals was in the cage! Upon removing the cover, he saw no brown! Instead, he came face to face with a black and white critter – a skunk!

The color of the tarp used in the above incident did not matter at all! The color of the animal cage did! However, the color of the tarp being used in many jobs does make a big difference, based on the purpose and the environment for which a tarp is needed.

Understanding Tarp Materials

Just as the original 17th century purpose for a tar-coated canvas (tar and pall, or tarpaulin) was to protect both a sailing ship’s cargo and its sailors from the water, salt, and wind elements, tarps today are used as coverings. A tarp protects valuable outdoor equipment, safeguards against moisture, shelters adventurous campers, screens from harmful rays, and preserves stored goods, along with multiple other usages. 

The construction material of the tarp makes a difference in the tarp’s strength, weight, durability, flexibility, resistance to weather conditions, and level of waterproofing. Whatever the job’s requirements, choosing the right tarp material and color based on its purpose and environment is important!

Polyethylene Tarps

Polyethylene tarps are plastic tarps, known for being versatile and affordable. They are lightweight, waterproof, and durable. Depending upon how it is used, these tarps can last for years.

Vinyl Tarps

Vinyl tarps are denser than polyethylene tarps, resistant to tearing and surface scratching, and are somewhat stretchable. Based on the thickness, vinyl can stand up to high winds and harsh weather, as well as mildew and mold. Because of its strength and resistance to tearing, vinyl is a good choice for industrial purposes.

Canvas Tarps

Canvas tarps are very durable and strong because they are made from heavy fabric. Outdoor purposes such as shade protection, covering woodpiles, and cordoning off a work area or play space are popular uses for canvas tarps. They are greatly used as coverings over trucks transporting food or other products and materials. 

Usually they are made with a coating that is water-resistant and protects against the sun. However, canvas tarps are much heavier than poly tarps, therefore not convenient for hiking or backpacking activities. If you are car camping, the weight will not matter, and the canvas material will be great.

Mesh Tarps

The breathable quality of this fabric--which has small holes in its composition--allows sunlight, air, and water to penetrate it. Shade screens and privacy barriers are popular uses for these tarps. Wind damage is more prevalent with mesh tarps, but they are useful for covering truckloads of sand, gravel, mulch, etc. Allowance for air circulation and the prevention of heat build-up are two important qualities of mesh tarps. 

Specialty Tarps

Specialty tarps are available to make golf simulator enclosures, gold simulator screens, and martial arts or yoga mats. Pre-made kits make these projects easily obtainable and accelerate their completion.

Also Read: How to Choose the Right Roof Style for Your Canopy Structure

Tarp Colors and Their Purposes

Blue Tarps: General Purpose and Temporary Covering

Blue Tarps are a good choice for general purposes and as temporary coverage for weatherproofing and camping. Construction sites often use blue tarps, which are easily seen, fairly economical, and widely available. 

Because they have low UV resistance, blue tarps are best suited for shady areas rather than direct sunlight. They are particularly cost-effective for short-term projects.

Silver Tarps: Maximum UV Reflection and Heat Reduction

Silver Tarps provide excellent UV protection. They are useful for hot climates because the silver color reflects the heat. Even in direct sunlight the silver tarp remains durable and long-lasting. In fact, silver tarps are ideal for long-term outdoor exposure as well as for the ability to keep stored items cool. 

They are popularly used to cover vehicles -- protecting them from sun damage, tree sap, scraping of branches, and minor environmental issues such as rain and storm damage, etc. In addition, they work very well for storage units and shelters.

White Tarps: Light Diffusion and Temperature Regulation

White Tarps allow diffused natural light to pass through, thus being an excellent tool in gardening. Along with being UV resistant, white tarps protect crops from heat while letting the sunshine grow the plants. Covering a row of tender seedlings with white tarp provides important resistance to harmful sun rays. 

In fact, by covering a frame with white tarps, a greenhouse is easily assembled to help produce delicious garden produce, beautiful flowers, and other crops.  Special occasions, such as an outdoor wedding, a reception, a party, or a family reunion are great opportunities for using the white tarps as attractive and adequate coverage for either a small or a large gathering of guests.

Green Tarps: Blending with Natural Environments

Green Tarps blend in well with natural outdoor environments. This characteristic makes them ideal for situations where a natural look is desired. Because of their camouflage property, green tarps are often used in landscaping, gardening, and camping situations. 

Wrapping a tarp around a yard fence gives privacy, also. Because they offer moderate UV protection, the green tarp will deteriorate faster than silver tarps in direct sunlight, however.

Brown Tarps: Earth-toned and Discreet Coverage

Brown Tarps neutral, earthy tones provide discreet coverage for a diversity of jobs. Often they are used in construction areas and outdoor projects, since they effectively blend into dirt or natural surroundings. 

Placing a tarp underneath a tent keeps moisture and dirt out of the inside. Placing a tarp over the tent gives adequate protection from rainfall and moisture absorption, keeping your shelter, clothes, and equipment dry. Brown tarps are pertinent and practical for outdoor enthusiasts!

Red Tarps: High Visibility and Emergency Use

Red Tarps bright color allows for high visibility. Used for emergency situations or areas needing attention, this eye-catching color readily points out a certain area. It screams, “This is the place!” Red tarps can designate dangerous areas or call attention to a certain site. This color of tarp is commonly used in disaster relief operations to flag down help or cover a damaged building. 

Red is not only an emergency color, however--red tarps can be fun! Use them to decorate for the holidays, also! The color red aptly fits with decorating for Christmas, New Year’s Day, Fourth of July, Veterans Day and any other day you want to celebrate!

Camouflage Tarps: Concealment for Outdoor Use

Camouflage Tarps are designed for concealment in wilderness settings. Because they are durable and practical, camouflage tarps are great for rugged outdoor use. Create a makeshift shelter. Cover your firewood stack with camo. 

Raise a cover over your camping tent. Camouflage tarps are perfect for hunting, military use, or blending into the forest. Imagine the fun your children would have if you erected a camouflage tent in the backyard for them!

Black Tarps: Maximum Light Blocking and Weed Control

Black Tarps block the light completely and maximize UV protection. Black tarps also perform well in cold climates. One common use is to cover cars by protecting them from exposure to sunlight and weather. Construction workers often use black tarps to cover equipment, as well as for other construction needs. 

Entry points can be created to guide traffic. To suppress the growth of weeds and grass in specific areas, black tarp is beneficial. After cutting down the unwanted weeds, cover the soil with black tarp, keeping it in place with blocks or sandbags.  The effectiveness of killing the undergrowth is determined by how long you leave the tarp in place.

Clear Tarps: Protection with Visibility

Clear Tarps are translucent, allowing light to pass through them. A common use for clear tarps is as a greenhouse covering. An outdoor porch covered with clear tarp increases the length of time the porch is usable, as well as protecting its contents from weather. 

When visibility is required and construction workers need to be aware of the surroundings, clear tarps are useful tools.

Tarp Color Comparison Table

Choosing the Right Tarp

Think about what you need. Do you need sun protection? Do you need privacy? Pick the tarp that fits your needs.

Also Read: How to Choose the Right Tarp for your Needs

FAQs

1. Are certain tarp colors more resistant to mold and mildew? 

Vinyl tarps, especially black ones, fight mold and mildew best. Their material keeps moisture out. Canvas tarps need extra treatment to stop mold in wet places.

2. Which tarp color is best for reducing glare while still allowing light through?

White tarps cut glare but still let light in. They give shade while keeping soft, natural light. This makes them great for gardens and events.

3. Do tarp colors affect their lifespan?

Tarp colors change how long they last. Silver and black tarps stay strong in the sun. Blue tarps wear out faster because they block less UV light.

4. Can I use a clear tarp for heat retention in cold weather? 

Clear tarps trap heat well in cold weather. Sunlight goes through, warming spaces like greenhouses. They also block wind and rain.

5. Which tarp color is best for nighttime visibility? 

Red, yellow, and orange tarps are easy to see at night. For extra safety, use high-visibility or reflective tarps. These work well for roads and emergencies.

Conclusion

Tarps are useful and important tools in everyday life. Depending upon the specific purpose for the tarp, the need for UV protection and resistance to the weather, and the desire to blend in or stand out, the COLOR OF THE TARP MAKES A DIFFERENCE. Follow these simple steps:

• Evaluate your specific project and environment before choosing a tarp.

• Select the right tarp color based upon that individual need.

• Reap the benefits of a job well done!

Explore our high-quality tarps now and find the perfect one for your needs!