The answer is pretty simple actually. It just depends upon what you’re hauling. Does the load need to stay dry? If so, a vinyl coated fabric is called for. If you’re hauling dirt, gravel, or nursery stock and you just need to contain the load to prevent it blowing away, a mesh tarp may be your best bet. Each type has its strengths. Let’s take a closer look and see which style of tarp might be best for your needs.

Generally speaking, vinyl tarps are stronger and they shed water. They’re also heavier and bulkier, but there’s really no way around that for heavy-duty over the road use. Steel Tarps, Lumber Tarps, Sidekit Tarps, Coil Tarps, etc are all fabricated with vinyl coated fabrics. We do have some options for lightweight tarps, but there’s a definite tradeoff.

Mesh tarps come in handy for loads like dirt, gravel, or any aggregate that can get wet. Tarp laws often require these loads be covered to prevent escape and possible injury. Mesh tarps are a good option for flip arm tarp systems on dump trucks and trailers. The lighter weight of the tarp allows for lighter springs and arms to be used, and mesh tarps catch less wind while they’re being deployed. Nursery tarps are another good application for mesh fabrics.  Nursery stock often needs to be covered to prevent wind whipping while in transit, and a mesh tarp is light enough to do the job without risk of damage from weight and heat buildup.

Tarpstop offers many varieties of both vinyl and mesh tarp systems. Our FlipKit & FlipOver systems can be configured with either type depending upon your needs. Contact us today for help figuring out which tarp system is best for your application!

Interested in learning more about either our Fastrak system or how we can help you with your Cargo Control needs.

Call one of the below locations today.

TARPSTOP TOLEDO, OH
12000 WILLIAMS RD
PERRYSBURG, OH 43551
Phone: 419-873-7867		 TARPSTOP GARY, IN
6801 MELTON RD
GARY, IN 46403
Phone: 219-938-8190 		  TARPSTOP TAYLOR, MI
7800 BEECH DALY RD
TAYLOR, MI 48180
Phone: 313-749-7490