Why are Many Tarps Are Blue?

Whenever the word "tarp" is mentioned, the image of a blue, grommeted, easily accessible tarp pops into one's head. Blue Tarps have been the standard for a long time, but why blue?

The tarps are colored blue to serve as an unofficial code for quick identification. Tarps in this shade of blue are often produced from coated polyethylene, meaning they are waterproof, stretch-resistant, UV-resistant, and tear-resistant as standard features. In most cases, the tarp type selected is of the Poly Tarp genre.

There is a vast range in the size and weight of blue tarps, so it is vital to research before purchasing one. is your best option if you need an incredibly durable tarp that holds its color for an extended period.

Reasons Why Tarps Are Blue

The selection of a blue tarp have been the go-to of choice because of their low cost and wide availability. But what exactly is the intent of blue tarps? Its widespread appeal stems from factors beyond its low cost and easy availability.

Generally, blue tarps are made for general, everyday use. These tarps can keep water out, won't stretch too much, won't tear, and can withstand sunlight. With these characteristics in mind, it's easy to deduce that blue tarps are designed for usage as outdoor protection.  They are also frequently used in the context of emergency roof repairs, yard work, machinery storage and other similar uses.

They're watertight and durable, making them great for tarps in construction and camping. Campers may use blue tarps in the most inventive ways. Campers use blue tarps as windbreaks, extra waterproofing for the tops of their tents, and to keep the rain out. The blue tarp enjoys a perennially steady market because it is cheap and practical and because people camp and build all year.

What About Different Colored Tarps?

Although blue tarps are by far the most common, they are not the only color available. Tarps exist in various colors, sizes, materials, and thicknesses, each with its applications.

Tarps of different hues may share many properties as blue tarps, including resistance to sunlight, water, and tears. While the lack of interest in these tarps compared to their blue counterparts may seem initially first, we can apply some common sense to help us figure out why this is the case.

Tarps are assigned colors informally, more as a convention than a guideline. Many producers and buyers have settled on recommendations based on synthesizing up-to-date ideas and established scientific knowledge.

Clear Tarps

Clear Poly Tarps offer excellent protection while still letting in plenty of light. They can shield an outdoor area from rain or snow without blocking the morning or the view. A clear tarp is your best bet if you're a farmer or gardener.

Silver Tarps

Tarps made of silver are just as good at reflecting light as white ones. When you need to maximize the amount of reflection, silver tarps are your best bet.

Black Tarps

Tarps made of black material are great for keeping in heat. One standard method of solar pool heating employs the usage of black tarps because of their low cost and high efficiency.

Camo Tarps

Camouflage Tarps are great for hiding your presence. Hunting and camping are two activities where it helps to blend in with the environment so as not to scare away the game.

Red Tarps

Tarps with red color are notoriously tricky. They function the same way as orange tarps, signaling a halt or a warning. They can mark a hole in the ground or other hazardous spots, letting others know to proceed cautiously.

Identifying The Quality of a Blue Tarp

You should consider your camping requirements before going out and getting an old blue tarp.

Do you intend to use it for everyday camping needs, such as protecting the floor of your tent from rain, or is it more of a novelty item? Do you plan camping in more challenging weather, such as a downpour?

Given the wide range of options available in the blue tarp industry, shoppers should be sure to have a firm grasp on their specifications and thoroughly study product labels before making any purchases.

●       When searching for a blue tarp, it's crucial to think about the size you'll need. The size of the blue tarp you purchase will depend on its intended purpose. Getting a tarp for under or over your tent requires knowing its dimensions to ensure a good fit.

●       When searching for a blue tarp, it's also vital to consider the material's thickness. The mil is the standard unit of measurement for tarp thickness, with higher values indicating greater thickness. With blue tarps, this figure can shift drastically.

Wrap Up

Blue tarps are versatile, waterproof, UV-resistant, and rip-resistant, making them perfect for various applications. Campers, contractors, and DIYers commonly use blue tarps because of their low cost and accessibility. A blue tarp is a versatile camping accessory that may be used for various purposes.