Comparing Canvas, Vinyl, and PVC Tarpaulin
Choosing the right tarpaulin material is crucial for ensuring durability, cost-efficiency, and long-lasting protection. In this detailed guide, we’ll compare canvas tarpaulin, vinyl tarpaulin, and PVC tarpaulin — helping you decide which type best fits your industrial, commercial, or personal needs. As a leading tarpaulin manufacturer in China, DERFLEX offers a wide range of high-quality tarp materials for global export.
Product Introduction
Tarpaulins (or “tarps”) are large waterproof sheets designed to protect against weather, dust, and damage. They come in several material types, each suited to specific uses. Here’s a quick overview:
- Canvas Tarpaulin: Made from woven cotton or polyester fabric, ideal for breathable applications.
- Vinyl Tarpaulin: Constructed from coated polyester fabric for heavy-duty, waterproof performance.
- PVC Tarpaulin: Produced using polyvinyl chloride with high tensile strength and excellent UV resistance — perfect for industrial and outdoor use.
Product Features Comparison
| Feature | Canvas Tarpaulin | Vinyl Tarpaulin | PVC Tarpaulin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Woven Cotton/Polyester | Vinyl-coated Polyester | PVC-coated Polyester |
| Water Resistance | Water-repellent | Fully waterproof | 100% waterproof |
| UV Resistance | Moderate | High | Excellent |
| Durability | Medium | High | Very High |
| Flexibility | Soft & Breathable | Medium Flexibility | High Flexibility |
| Typical Applications | Tent, Shade, Truck Cover | Construction, Agriculture | Industrial, Truck, Boat, Shelter |
| Temperature Resistance | Up to 70°C | -20°C to 80°C | -30°C to 85°C |
| Cost | Low | Moderate | Competitive |
Product Application
Canvas tarpaulins are commonly used in agriculture, camping, and temporary shade systems where breathability is key. Vinyl tarpaulins are suitable for heavy-duty covers, industrial curtains, and containment. Meanwhile, PVC tarpaulins excel in transportation, construction, and outdoor advertising due to their superior weather and chemical resistance.
Typical Applications Include:
- Truck and trailer covers
- Outdoor tents and shelters
- Construction scaffolding tarps
- Agricultural covers and pond liners
- Inflatable structures and event tents
Product Colors & Specifications
DERFLEX offers a wide selection of tarpaulin colors and weights to meet specific branding or functional needs.
| Color Options | Blue, Green, White, Black, Grey, Red, Yellow, Transparent |
|---|---|
| Width | 1.02m – 3.2m (custom available) |
| Weight | 300gsm – 900gsm |
| Coating | PVC, Vinyl, or PU |
| Surface Finish | Matte / Glossy / Embossed |
DERFLEX Company Profile
Shanghai DER New Material Co., Ltd. (DERFLEX) is a professional PVC tarpaulin manufacturer in China with over 20 years of experience in coated fabrics. Our factory covers more than 50,000 m², equipped with advanced knife coating and lamination lines. DERFLEX products are certified under ISO9001, REACH, and SGS standards, ensuring consistency, performance, and reliability for every shipment.
Installation Precautions
- Ensure the surface is clean and dry before tarp installation.
- Avoid sharp edges or abrasive surfaces to prevent puncture.
- Secure with ropes, eyelets, or bungee cords for stability.
- Store in a dry, shaded area when not in use.
Sold to Countries
DERFLEX tarpaulins are exported globally to over 100 countries, including the USA, UK, Australia, Germany, Brazil, South Africa, and the Middle East. Our OEM and ODM services are trusted by international brands for their consistency and cost-effectiveness.
FAQs
1. Which tarpaulin material lasts the longest?
PVC tarpaulin typically lasts the longest due to its strong coating, UV resistance, and waterproof performance.
2. Is canvas tarpaulin waterproof?
Canvas tarpaulin is water-repellent but not fully waterproof — suitable for breathable uses but not for prolonged wet environments.
3. Can I customize color and size?
Yes. DERFLEX offers full customization for color, width, coating type, and weight according to customer requirements.
4. Do you offer samples?
Samples are available upon request to evaluate material quality before bulk order.
Why Choose DERFLEX
- Over 20 years of experience in tarpaulin manufacturing
- Full range of PVC, vinyl, and canvas options
- Strict quality control and ISO-certified production
- Fast global shipping and OEM customization
- Excellent customer service and technical support
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