Overview
Today's article will compare poly tarps with vinyl tarps and provide some key differences in how the materials are designed, as well as their pricing ranges and usage. Polyester and vinyl fabrics are two popular materials that have unique characteristics, making them suitable for various uses. Polyester fabric offers advantages such as quick drying, breathability, and moderate water resistance. It is also known for being durable, resistant to wrinkles, and having a soft texture. Polyester fabric is hypoallergenic and generally does not have any strong odors. However, vinyl fabric may cause allergies in some people and can have a distinct scent. It is important to understand the differences between polyester and vinyl fabric in order to choose the right material for specific needs. Factors such as comfort, maintenance requirements, environmental impact, and intended applications should be considered when making a decision.
We can organize tarps by their material, thickness, and weight. Their sub types can be further divided depending on the insulation or strengthening qualities. The most common materials are vinyl and poly. They provide essential protection against the elements and are commonly used for industrial equipment, construction sites, excavation, outdoor areas, patios, or bars. While both of them have resistance to wind, rain, snow, flying debris, and pests, differences do exist.
One area where the differences are barely noticeable is how they look. Both poly and vinyl tarps come with very similar looks. Vinyl and poly are highly-customizable materials; their appearance and colors match perfectly. However, the differences start being noticeable when these materials are put up to the test. Which one of them is stronger, and by how much?
Polyester Vs Vinyl: Design
Are both materials build different?
Poly tarps are designed by using woven polyethylene coated with a polyethylene laminate. Vinyl tarps on the other hand are designed by using polyethylene terephthalate (PET) scrims with a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) film laminate.
Vinyl tarps are heavier in their nature and thus used in more heavy-duty operations. Vinyl has higher density and is remarkably strong. It is resistant to abrasion, tearing, mold, mildew, and wind whip. With higher thicknesses, vinyl can withstand super harsh weather for long exposures.
Poly is designed from a common plastic material and thus lacks in quality. It is not suited for harsh outdoor environments. Poly tarps have the potential to be waterproof, but are better off for lighter applications. This is not to say poly is useless. Poly tarps can be used for light operations or temporary use.
With vinyl tarps having better durability and resistances, they will naturally cost more. As such, they are not cost-effective for smaller, light-duty operations, but perform well against heavy rain, snow, strong winds, insects, pests, and flying debris. Exact pricing will be discussed further below.
Polyester Vs Vinyl: Quality
Which One Has Better Quality?
In the above section we already came to the conclusion that vinyl is tougher than poly. Naturally, vinyl has better quality and by far! But, is that increase in power really worth it?
Simply put it - yes, vinyl tarps far exceed poly when it comes to quality. They are made to resist harsh outdoor environments, as they are produced industrial strength in mind. This allows for a high level of protection, being able to resist against external elements, such as water, oil, grease, acid and mildew. Certain Vinyl tarps can also be flame retardant, have built-in UV protection and are not likely to rip or tear.
Poly tarps lack quality, but are still usable in more niche conditions.
Poly tarps provide a decent level of protection nonetheless. They are also waterproof and also available in a range of qualities based on end-use. Usually, the blue poly tarps are intended for light, temporary use and offer much less quality compared to other tarps. Poly tarps can also be coated with a UV material to help provide extra protection when needed. However, if your end-use does not require a high level of strength, the lite poly tarp will not be an issue, and can thus provide a very suitable, affordable solution.
Polyester Vs Vinyl: Drying Time
Which One Has Better Quality?
In the above section we already came to the conclusion that vinyl is tougher than poly. Naturally, vinyl has better quality and by far! But, is that increase in power really worth it?
Simply put it - yes, vinyl tarps far exceed poly when it comes to quality. They are made to resist harsh outdoor environments, as they are produced industrial strength in mind. This allows for a high level of protection, being able to resist against external elements, such as water, oil, grease, acid and mildew. Certain Vinyl tarps can also be flame retardant, have built-in UV protection and are not likely to rip or tear.
Poly tarps lack quality, but are still usable in more niche conditions.
Poly tarps provide a decent level of protection nonetheless. They are also waterproof and also available in a range of qualities based on end-use. Usually, the blue poly tarps are intended for light, temporary use and offer much less quality compared to other tarps. Poly tarps can also be coated with a UV material to help provide extra protection when needed. However, if your end-use does not require a high level of strength, the lite poly tarp will not be an issue, and can thus provide a very suitable, affordable solution.
Polyester Vs Vinyl: Pricing
Is One Material More Cost-Efficient?
Does the increase in quality correspond with a fair increase in price? Most vinyl tarps can range from $22-$2,200 depending on their size and layout.
Poly tarps are inexpensive compared to vinyl. This is so because of their short life-span and lower resistances to the elements. Poly tarps are commonly sold for anywhere between $3-$150 depending on their size and layout.
Cost-efficiency is also in favor of vinyl. The longevity and protection far outweighs any price cuts. A single vinyl tarp will last for many years and pay its cost back many times over. You could conciser it as an investment. Poly becomes viable for more decorative applications or if you need a tarp for a small period of time, and preferable indoor use.
Ultimately, it is up to the client to decide. We strongly suggest vinyl tarps. Poly tarps should be considered for niche applications like the ones mentioned in the next part of our article.
Polyester Vs Vinyl: Applications
Common Applications:
Vinyl tarps are great for heavy-duty use:
- Industrial applications
- Agriculture
- Docks
- Construction and excavation field
- Baseball and soccer fields
- Gyms
- Landscaping
- Storm protection and forecast
- Commercial outdoor use
- Shelters for families and much more
Poly tarps are best suited for temporary or light-duty use:
- Maintenance environments
- Decorations
- Picnics and campgrounds
- Roof tear-offs
- Ground and lawn sheets
- Privacy walls
Conclusion
Conclusion:
We deem vinyl tarps as the obvious choice for most applications. They offer amazing reassurance; guaranteeing moisture, mold, mildew, and other elements can never pass through. Their quality is amazing and well-worth. Their longevity will pay dividends in the long run. For smaller jobs, decorations, or privacy walls, poly could do the trick.
Vinyl tarps are ideal for tough use. That is true especially for outdoor use because of vinyl's strength, sturdiness, and resistance properties. Common applications include docks, construction sites, excavation fields, gyms, landscaping, shelters, patio bars, and more. Their ability to withstand varying weather conditions makes them amazing for protecting sensitive items, such as expensive equipment, fragile cargo, and supplies.
Poly tarps are best-suited for temporary use. These tarps are commonly used in maintenance environments, decorations, picnics, campgrounds, roof tear-offs, ground and lawn sheets, and privacy walls.
Polyester Examples
Vinyl Examples
