Special Purpose Tarps

Some tarp uses require special tarp characteristics that are not usually needed. These include fire retardant tarps, insulated tarps, and mesh tarps.

Fire Retardant Tarps

Tarps that are to be used around high heat, or where the danger of fire is high, may require fire retardant coatings. Fire retardant tarps that meet the CPIA-84 fire and flame retardant specifications will not catch fire and burn quickly like an ordinary tarp may do, so these are used for applications demanding fire retardent characteristics.

Insulated Tarps

Insulated tarps are typically used to protect things and keep them warm, but can also be used to help keep things cool. An insulated tarp is just a "tarp sandwich" formed by using two layers of regular poly or canvas tarp with some kind of filler in between the layers. To keep the filling from migrating into one spot, insulated tarps are quilted, forming little pockets of polyfill or cotton insulation.

The amount of insulation will determine the efficiency of the tarp in terms of the "R" value, just like with home insulation products. R1, for example, denotes a standard insulating tarp. R3 would be an extra thick, heavy duty insulated tarp. An R1 insulating tarp will suit most consumer or light commercial needs.

Mesh Tarps

Mesh tarps are used as windscreens for tennis courts or around rooftop restaurants, providing protection from the wind and a measure of privacy. They are also excellent for sunscreens, filtering out most of the hot sunlight, while allowing some air flow. Mesh tarp material stretched over a tent frame makes a great portable shade tent.