News
Industry News

Tarpaulin vs vinyl cover: which is better for outdoor use?

Update:2025/10/24 9:54:51 Views:

Tarpaulin vs Vinyl Cover: Which is Better for Outdoor Use?

When it comes to outdoor protection, both tarpaulin and vinyl covers are widely used to shield materials, vehicles, or equipment from harsh weather conditions. But which one is better for outdoor use? Understanding their material differences, durability, and performance helps you make an informed decision. In this article, we’ll compare tarpaulin vs vinyl cover and explain why DERFLEX PVC tarpaulin is a top choice for outdoor applications worldwide.

1. Product Introduction

Tarpaulins (often shortened as “tarps”) are flexible, durable, and waterproof sheets made of woven polyester or canvas coated with PVC (polyvinyl chloride). They are used to cover and protect items from rain, wind, UV radiation, and dust.

Vinyl covers, on the other hand, are typically made from vinyl-coated polyester fabric. They are smoother, more aesthetically appealing, and suitable for long-term outdoor exposure.

DERFLEX produces both PVC tarpaulin rolls and vinyl-coated fabrics, designed for high tensile strength, weather resistance, and versatility across industries like transportation, agriculture, and construction.

2. Material Comparison: Tarpaulin vs Vinyl Cover

Feature PVC Tarpaulin Vinyl Cover
Base Fabric Polyester scrim (woven) Vinyl-coated polyester fabric
Coating PVC film Vinyl compound with UV additives
Waterproof Excellent Excellent
UV Resistance High Very High (UV-stabilized)
Durability 5–7 years outdoor lifespan 7–10 years outdoor lifespan
Cost Efficiency More economical Higher cost, premium material

In general, vinyl covers are more durable and UV-resistant, while PVC tarpaulins are more flexible and cost-effective. Both materials are ideal for outdoor use depending on your needs.

3. Product Features

  • 100% waterproof and mildew resistant
  • UV and fire-retardant coating (optional FR treatment)
  • Temperature resistance: -30°C to +70°C
  • Anti-tear, anti-abrasion, and easy to weld with hot-air tools
  • Available in matte or glossy surface finishes
  • Custom colors and weights (300gsm–1200gsm) available

4. Product Applications

DERFLEX PVC tarpaulin and vinyl covers are widely used for outdoor protection, industrial storage, and advertising applications, including:

  • Truck side curtain covers and trailer tarps
  • Tent and canopy fabric
  • Construction site covers and scaffolding sheets
  • Swimming pool and pond liners
  • Outdoor advertising banners and billboards
  • Agricultural greenhouse and hay protection

5. Product Specifications

Item Specification
Material Vinyl-coated polyester / PVC-coated fabric
Weight 300gsm–1200gsm
Width 1.02m–3.20m (custom sizes available)
Surface Glossy / Matte / Lacquered
Temperature Resistance -30°C to +70°C
Color Customized (Blue, White, Green, Yellow, etc.)
Finish UV, FR, Anti-fungal coatings

6. DERFLEX Company Profile

DERFLEX is a leading PVC tarpaulin and vinyl-coated fabric manufacturer in China with over 20 years of experience in industrial coating and lamination. Our factory uses advanced coating lines and weaving technology to ensure consistent quality, high tensile strength, and precise thickness control.

DERFLEX products are certified to international standards such as REACH, RoHS, and SGS. We serve global clients across industries such as logistics, agriculture, construction, and advertising printing.

7. Installation Precautions

  • Ensure the surface is clean and dry before installation.
  • Use reinforced eyelets and ropes to fix the tarpaulin securely.
  • Avoid sharp edges or abrasive surfaces that may damage the coating.
  • Clean the surface with mild soap and water; avoid harsh chemicals.
  • Store in a dry, shaded area when not in use.

8. Export Markets

DERFLEX PVC tarpaulins and vinyl covers are exported to over 80 countries, including:

  • USA, Canada, and Mexico
  • UK, Germany, France, and Italy
  • Australia and New Zealand
  • UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar
  • Brazil, Chile, and South Africa

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the main difference between tarpaulin and vinyl cover?

A tarpaulin is usually made from woven polyester coated with PVC, while a vinyl cover uses vinyl-coated polyester, offering a smoother finish and longer UV life.

Q2: Is vinyl cover waterproof?

Yes. Both PVC tarpaulins and vinyl covers are fully waterproof and suitable for outdoor use year-round.

Q3: Can I order customized tarpaulin sizes?

Absolutely. DERFLEX offers custom widths, thicknesses, and colors to match your application.

Q4: How do I choose the right GSM for outdoor use?

For general cover use, 500–650gsm is sufficient. For heavy-duty industrial applications, 750–1050gsm is recommended.

Q5: What’s the lifespan of DERFLEX tarpaulin?

Depending on conditions, DERFLEX PVC tarpaulin can last 5–10 years outdoors with proper care.

10. Relevant Keywords

tarpaulin vs vinyl cover, vinyl coated tarpaulin, pvc tarpaulin manufacturer, waterproof vinyl cover, heavy duty vinyl tarpaulin, outdoor tarpaulin fabric, pvc coated fabric roll, vinyl tarpaulin for truck cover, pvc laminated fabric supplier, tarpaulin fabric manufacturer in China

Consulting Services
+86-021-54361792 / 54361798
Email
sales@derflex.com