Transforming your backyard into a versatile, comfortable, and functional space doesn’t always require expensive renovations. With the help of mesh tarps, you can easily enhance your outdoor living area to provide shade, privacy, and year-round comfort. These durable and breathable tarps are designed to block sunlight, reduce heat, and create private zones without restricting airflow, making them an excellent choice for both residential and commercial outdoor settings.
In this article, we’ll explore the creative backyard uses for mesh tarps and explain why they’re one of the most practical solutions for homeowners seeking affordable yet stylish outdoor upgrades.
Why Mesh Tarps Are Perfect for Outdoor Spaces

Unlike solid tarps, mesh tarps are breathable, allowing air and light to pass through while still providing coverage and protection. This makes them perfect for:
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Reducing heat without trapping humidity
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Offering shade while maintaining natural light
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Creating private zones without feeling closed off
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Withstanding strong winds due to their breathable design
Available in various sizes, colors, and thicknesses, mesh tarps from Tarp Supply Inc.® are crafted from high-quality, UV-resistant materials that ensure durability and long-lasting performance in any season.
1. Backyard Shade Structures
One of the most popular uses of mesh tarps is creating shade canopies for patios, decks, or seating areas. By attaching a tarp to poles, fences, or existing structures, you can instantly design a cost-effective pergola alternative.
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Benefits: Blocks up to 70–90% of harmful UV rays while allowing airflow.
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Applications: Over picnic tables, lounge chairs, children’s play areas, or outdoor dining spaces.
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Recommendation: Choose Heavy-Duty Poly Mesh Tarps from Tarp Supply Inc.® for maximum sun protection.
2. Privacy Screens for Fences and Patios
Mesh tarps make excellent privacy screens, especially for backyards in urban or suburban neighborhoods.
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Attach tarps along chain-link or wooden fences to shield your space from prying eyes.
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Use as patio dividers to create separate zones for lounging, grilling, or gardening.
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Great for blocking unsightly views while still letting breezes flow.
Tarp Supply Inc.® offers Windscreen Privacy Tarps that are ideal for residential and commercial applications.
3. Poolside Comfort and Safety
Backyard pools are a summer favorite, but too much direct sunlight can make the experience uncomfortable. Mesh tarps can be installed as poolside shade structures or used as windbreak barriers around the swimming area.
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Reduce glare from the sun for swimmers.
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Protect lounge areas from wind and debris.
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Add a stylish touch with neutral or vibrant tarp colors.
4. Garden and Greenhouse Protection
Garden enthusiasts often struggle with the balance of sun and shade for their plants. Mesh tarps are an excellent gardening tool because they offer partial shade while maintaining ventilation.
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Protect delicate plants from the scorching sun.
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Extend growing seasons for cool-weather crops.
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Prevent soil from drying out too quickly.
Opt for UV-treated black mesh tarps from Tarp Supply Inc.®, as they are specifically designed for agricultural use.
5. Outdoor Event Covers
Hosting fall barbecues, family gatherings, or evening parties becomes easier with mesh tarps. They can be strung up as temporary covers to provide shade during the day and add ambiance with string lights at night.
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Perfect for backyard weddings or community gatherings.
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Cost-effective alternative to renting tents.
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Lightweight and easy to install or remove.
6. Pet and Animal Enclosures
If you have pets or backyard animals, mesh tarps can be used to create shaded animal pens or kennels.
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Keep pets cool during warm months.
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Provide wind and sun protection without complete enclosure.
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Durable and resistant to tearing from claws.
7. Carports and Equipment Covers
Protect vehicles, motorcycles, bikes, or lawn equipment from the elements by using mesh tarps as shade covers. While not waterproof, mesh tarps help reduce sun exposure and keep temperatures cooler.
Tips for Choosing the Right Mesh Tarp
When selecting a mesh tarp for backyard use, consider the following:
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UV Protection Level: Look for tarps rated to block 70–90% of UV rays.
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Size & Color: Choose sizes that fit your space and colors that blend with your décor.
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Durability: Heavy-duty mesh tarps with reinforced hems last longer outdoors.
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Attachment Options: Grommets make setup easy with ropes, zip ties, or bungee cords.
Best Mesh Tarps from Tarp Supply Inc.®
At Tarp Supply Inc.®, we provide premium-quality mesh tarps tailored for backyard, commercial, and industrial needs. Some top recommendations include:
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Heavy Duty PolyPro Black Mesh Shade Tarps 70% Shade – Ideal for shade structures and patios.
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86% Super Shade Mesh Tarps – Perfect for shade and canopy.
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87% Knitted Poly Privacy Screen Fence Tarps – Best for outdoor privacy fence, construction fence screens.
Each tarp is crafted for maximum durability, UV resistance, and year-round protection.
Conclusion: Upgrade Your Backyard with Mesh Tarps
With their versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness, mesh tarps are one of the best backyard solutions for enhancing shade, privacy, and comfort. Whether you’re protecting your garden, creating private retreats, or hosting outdoor gatherings, they provide both functional and aesthetic value.
At Tarp Supply Inc.®, we’re committed to providing homeowners with the highest quality tarps for all backyard needs. Shop our wide selection of mesh tarps today and turn your outdoor space into a shaded, private, and comfortable retreat.