How to Secure a Tarpaulin Properly in High Winds

1. How to Secure a Tarpaulin Properly in High Winds It is more than throwing a Tarpaulin over something and loosely tying it down to secure it for high winds. Unanchored tarps will be pulled or torn by strong winds, causing destruction, safety hazards, or the complete disappearance of the tarp. By protecting outdoor furniture, covering a construction site by a vehicle, or setting up a temporary shelter, proper tying of the tarpaulin becomes critical. here are stepwise instructions to do it right. 1. Heavy-Duty Tarpaulin Pick the right type of tarp. Heavy-duty tarpaulins are an absolute necessity during high winds. They are thicker than those usual types that are made out of reinforced polyethylene or PVC and include reinforced edges or metal grommets that resist tearing and damage while withstanding harsh weather. The heavier the tarp, the less likely it is to flap or even lift during high winds. 2. Properly Lay the Tarp When laying the tarpaulin, ensure it is as taut as possible. Loose tarps act like sails and are more likely to catch the wind. It should be positioned keeping in mind the direction of the wind-whistling to keep the least possible side to that from which the wind is coming to lessen wind exposure. 3. Use Grommets and Reinforced Points Each grommet or eyelet on the tarp must always be used. By spreading the weight on as many tie-down points as possible, the pressure exerted on that one single point can be minimized, preventing tearing. If the corners look frail, reinforce these extra fabric or duct tape.

2. 4. Tie-Down Heavy Duty Style Forget about thin rope. Bungee cords, ratchet straps, or Heavy Duty Tarpaulin rope must be made use of to secure the tarp. These materials would give a firm hold with a bit of flexibility, allowing the tarp to absorb wind shocks without ripping. Apply a good tightness but don't overtighten because that could tear the grommets right through. 5. Ground Anchors and Weights On tarps that are on the ground or that are covering some sort of equipment, the edges can be held down by tent stakes, rebar, sandbags, or concrete blocks. Weights are especially useful when you don't want to puncture the ground. On roofs, a brick or wooden board can be used on the inside edge of the tarp. 6. Minimize Wind Gaps Any loose or flapping edge should be tucked or folded under the tarp and secured. If possible, make a windbreak around the area to decrease wind pressure. The fewer flaps and gaps there are, the better the tarp will work.