Tarpaulin materials remain an excellent option for outdoor upholstery projects in Nigeria. But the confusion of which material is the best has to be solved.
Don’t bother your head any longer. In this article, we will take you round the world of tarps.
At the end of this blog post, you will find answers to your questions.
Read on to learn why tarpaulin are great for your outdoor upholstery in Nigeria, and the top options available to protect your upholstery from water, wind and heat.
What is tarpaulin?
Tarp, for short: A tarpaulin is a heavy-duty, water-proof material used as a shield for construction and outdoor upholstery projects. It is a large sheet of solid, flexible material that is waterproof, usually made of fabric or polyester.
This material serves many functions including use as a temporary solution for roof repairs, damaged structures and protection during disasters.
It provides protection for people (in some cases), structures or equipment from the elements – wind, rain (water), and sun (light).
For those carrying out indoor repairs and the like, tarpaulins are also used as a shield against chemicals and paints.
Top Five Tarpaulin Materials for Outdoor Upholstery Projects in Nigeria
Heavy-duty tarpaulins are very functional when it comes to providing a shield for your outdoor upholstery projects.
These five materials mentioned here are durable, heat-resistant and easy to maintain.
Polyethene Tarpaulin
Why it’s great: Poly-tarps are highly durable and known for their great resistance against water.
These tarps are crafted tough – from woven strands of polyethene and coated with a waterproof layer. Yet, its lightweight nature makes it easy to handle.
It also has a solid resistance against the ultraviolet rays of the sun protecting your furniture against its impact. That way they stay free from fade and wear.
In comparison to other materials, poly tarps are cheap and quite common.
However, low-quality products are rampant. So you need to seek higher grades.
Cons
Polythene tarps lack breathability as it is made to resist water and air. This permits moist build-up and possible condensation. So ascertain your upholstery needs. Also, the colour range for polyethene is small.
Canvas Tarpaulin
Why it’s great: Canvas brings a touch of sophistication to your outdoor upholstery.
Canvas tarps are typically made from cotton or a cotton-polyester blend. Yet, they are strong and resistant to tears. It’s breathable, allowing air circulation while stiprotectingion from light rain.
Canvas is also resistant to mould and mildew. It is also great for humid conditions often experienced in Nigeria.
Are you conscious of the environment? The good news is that canvas tarps are a better option compared to their plastic counterpart.
Cons
Canvas tarps are not entirely waterproof. Thus they are only appropriate for specific outdoor uses. You need to consider the kind of upholstery you have and how moisture might affect them.
Since these tarps weigh more than polyethene, they are more challenging to transport and set up. The material, level of ease in set up and conveyance, make them more expensive.
Also Read: 5 Reasons Why Customers Across Africa Trust Nestken Masters for their Leathers and Tarpaulins Supply
Vinyl-Coated Polyester Tarpaulin
Why it’s great: This material combines the strength of polyester with the waterproofing properties of vinyl.
It’s excellent for heavy-duty applications and is resistant to abrasion and tearing, making it ideal for your outdoor furniture.
They are ideal for harsh weather conditions and are exceptionally tough and long-lasting. If you need maximum protection for your outdoor upholstery against water, mildew, sunlight and degradation, this tarp will guarantee just that.
What’s more? They are made with a wider range of colours.
Cons
They prove more challenging to transport and install due to their weight. The lack of breathability also gives room for condensation and moisture build-up. They also cost more than polyethene tarps.
Mesh Tarpaulin
Why it’s great: Want a material that reduces heat buildup? These breathable tarps made from tightly woven mesh are the way to go.
It is perfect for the hot weather, offering comfort without sacrificing durability. You can use it to offer relief from the sun. This makes it best suited for outdoor lounge areas.
They are frequently coated to be UV resistant so that they won’t degrade in the sun. The material provides strong resistance against windy weather.
In comparison to others, mesh tarps are compact, portable, and simple to install.
Cons
Mesh tarps are not fully water-proof, hence they don’t give a full shield against the rain. In extension, they are not the best option for extreme weather conditions.
The colour options are also restricted.
Also Read: How to Start a Successful Business in Leather and Tarpaulin Distribution in Nigeria
Clear Tarpaulin
These types are made using heavy-duty or lightweight materials. They are manufactured to withstand the wind, mildew, grease or chemicals.
Why it’s great:
The transparency makes it a popular choice in areas like construction where builders need a clear view of where they are working. But you can also use it to protect an outdoor porch area from extreme weather conditions.
Is PVC the Same as Vinyl Tarp?
Both PVC and vinyl refer to the same synthetic plastic polymer, and they share similar characteristics such as durability, water resistance, and versatility.
A tarp made from PVC is commonly referred to as a vinyl tarp.
However, it is important to note that while PVC is a type of vinyl, not all vinyl materials are necessarily made from PVC.
So, confirm the specific material composition to understand the properties of a particular tarp. We’d like to add that, if the tarpaulin is heavy, it will have better durability.
So use heavy-duty tarps for your outdoor projects especially if you are building a tarpaulin roof to cover an area for a long period.
Choosing the Right Tarps
Typically, you must consider the size of your upholstery and the area you would cover before purchase.
In this case, you have to ensure that the tarpaulin material completely encloses your outdoor upholstery area for full protection.
Heavy-duty tarps are best suited for Nigerian weather as the change between the hot and cold seasons can be drastic and extreme.
However, if it is a temporary fix against, say, the possibility of light showers, you can choose a lighter-weight tarp.
Cloth tarps, on the other hand, are great for items that require some breathability.
In other words, if you need strong and long-lasting coverage, a vinyl tarp can be your best option. More specifically, there are cars packed close to your upholstery area.
Canvas tarps can be an excellent choice for your outdoor furniture if you need something breathable.
A mesh tarp on the other hand is great for pool areas.
Tarps and their Colours
You’ve probably noticed that blue tarps are everywhere from construction sites to trucks conveying agricultural produce.
But did you know that the colour of a tarp can carry some significance?
It’s not just about aesthetics; different hues can mean different things, depending on the company producing them.
Black and dark grey tarps are mostly used for heavy-duty tarps. They don’t reflect sunlight; they absorb it.
On the flip side, white and silver tarps reflect sunlight and are perfect for beating the heat thereby creating a cool environment. White, in particular, is great for hot weather conditions. And then brown, blue, and green are the more general colours.
Due to the unique properties of each tarp, always ask the right questions before making a purchase. Remember, the best tarps should meet your needs whether it’s water resistance, sun protection or wind resistance.
Also Read: 10 Uses of Tarpaulin in Nigeria
Conclusion
Tarps are a practical and affordable solution that can help extend the life of your outdoor things. With this material, your outdoor tools, equipment and upholstery will look fresh for a long time. Each of these top 5 materials brings its unique strengths to the table, catering to different needs and preferences.
Whether you prioritize durability, aesthetics, or breathability, there’s a tarpaulin material that will adequately protect your outdoor upholstery project.
Heavy-duty tarps stand out as the type to ensure the prolonged life of your outdoor furniture.
Whether you have sofas or other outdoor upholstery, they offer the right balance of durability, weather resistance, and aesthetic appeal.
Remember, in Nigeria, investing in a quality tarpaulin not only preserves the beauty of your outdoor upholstery. It also saves you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements. Ready to safeguard your outdoor furniture? Act now and enjoy the lasting beauty of your outdoor upholstery.
Would you like to purchase upholstery fabric, leather or tarpaulin? Contact any of the Nestken Masters’ offices in Lagos or Aba. Call: 08039388366