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Americover | Plastic Sheeting Supplier for Construction and Horticulture

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The Difference Between Plastic Tarps and Construction Plastic Sheeting

For construction and agricultural applications, two common products often come to mind: plastic tarps and construction plastic sheeting. While these two materials share some similarities, they are distinct in their composition and purpose. Because tarps and plastic sheeting have different price points, it is understandable that many builders and growers may wonder which applications each option is suitable for.

The team at Americover is composed of experts in plastic sheeting for construction and agricultural applications. Our business prides itself on being able to find the right plastic sheeting with the appropriate set of specifications for your needs. Continue reading to learn about the key differences between plastic sheeting and plastic tarps.

What are the Differences Between Tarps and Construction Plastic Sheeting?

Both tarps and construction plastic sheeting are large pieces of flexible, waterproof plastic meant for a variety of applications. The overall difference is that tarps are meant for general outdoor use and weather protection, whereas plastic sheeting is meant for commercial use and is often constructed to meet specific requirements.

At Americover, our team acknowledges how confusing this difference could be. As Jason Treiger puts it:

“In the world of construction and agriculture, plastic sheeting tends to have an adaptability that tarps cannot always replicate.  Tarps used to outrank plastic sheeting in durability – that is no longer the case.”

—Jason Treiger, Account Manager, Americover

Tarps and plastic sheeting have different composition and characteristics. Further differences between these sheeting options include:

How It’s Made: Plastic Sheeting vs. Plastic Tarps

Plastic tarps are typically made from woven polyethylene ribbons, with variations in thickness and density. They come in various sizes and colors, catering to a wide range of applications. Plastic sheeting is unwoven, blown polyethylene film, and can also come in a wide variety of colors, thicknesses, and sizes.

Tarps used to be more durable than plastic sheeting and generally more trustworthy when it came to weather protection. However, over the years, plastic sheeting has evolved to become the more durable and lightweight option. This is largely due to the innovation of string-reinforcement, which utilizes a string grid between two layers of extrusion laminated polyethylene to make a stronger product without excess weight.

Characteristics of Tarps vs. Plastic Sheeting

Both plastic sheeting and tarps offer options in terms of color, size, and thickness (measured in mils). They are both designed to repel water and can keep your valuables dry and protected from the elements. Both tarps and plastic sheeting are suitable for outdoor use, although tarps tend to last longer, about 3-5 years when outside exposed to the sun. However, plastic sheeting with a UV-resistant additive can usually last just as long as a tarp.

Plastic sheeting is the more cost-effective option. On average, a roll of string-reinforced plastic polyethylene sheeting is anywhere from $2 – $3 per square foot, while a tarp averages $5-$6 per square foot for a 10-mil material.

Applications of Tarps vs. Plastic Sheeting

Tarps are a reliable choice for protecting materials and structures from the elements. Their versatility makes them suitable for temporary roof protection, covering lumber and equipment, and providing overall weather protection on construction sites and farms. Plastic sheeting also offers robust protection against the elements and has become a cost-effective alternative to traditional tarps, especially as a temporary roof cover.

While tarps are popular materials for shelters, not all plastic sheeting may be suitable to protect people outdoors. However, plastic sheeting can be specifically designed for your needs with additives like UV resistance, fire retardation, fire resistance, bee compatibility, infrared, and so much more. When considering which solution is best for your application, consider which features are most important and your budget. It’s likely that there is a cost-effective plastic sheeting product that meets your needs.

Trusted by Builders, Growers and Distributors

Americover is the smart source for plastic and polyethylene sheeting. Trusted by contractors and distributors across the construction and agriculture industries, our American-made products combine reliability with quality and innovation. 

As an Americover customer, you will receive the personalized support of a dedicated account manager to simplify the ordering process and ensure the best solution for every one of your projects. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff is here to answer your questions and fulfill orders Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. Call us at 760-388-6294 or fill out our form to speak to a representative.

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