Rainwater harvesting is a simple and sustainable way to collect and store water for gardening, cleaning, or emergency use. One of the most budget-friendly and efficient methods is using a tarp as a rainwater collection point. With a little know-how and the right materials, you can create your rain catchment system using just a tarp, rope, and a collection container.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step setup, highlight the best types of tarps to use, and offer tips for maximizing your water collection.
Why Use a Tarp for Rainwater Collection?
Using a tarp is ideal because it’s:
-
Inexpensive
-
Portable
-
Quick to deploy
-
Versatile (can be adjusted to fit different locations)
Tarps can be used in gardens, campsites, off-grid cabins, or even during emergencies where traditional water sources are compromised.
Materials You'll Need
-
Strong rope or paracord
-
Bungee cords or clips
-
A clean container or barrel
-
Stakes or anchor points
-
Poles (optional) for creating height and slope
Step-by-Step Guide: Setting Up Your Tarp Rain Catchment System
Step 1: Choose the Right Location
Pick a spot that is:
-
Open and free from overhanging branches
-
Slightly elevated to allow for good water flow
-
Close to where you’ll store or use the water
Step 2: Select the Right Tarp
Choose a waterproof, UV-resistant, and durable tarp. (See recommendations below.)
Step 3: Create a Funnel Shape
Use rope or poles to set up the tarp in a way that forms a shallow funnel. A diamond or square layout with the center dipping slightly lower is ideal.
-
Tie each corner of the tarp to a tree or stake using rope.
-
Make sure the center of the tarp is lower than the corners, so rain naturally flows toward that point.
-
Angle the tarp toward your collection container.
Step 4: Direct Water to Your Container
Place the container under the lowest point of the tarp. You can cut a small hole and insert a funnel or spout to help guide water directly into the container.
Step 5: Secure Everything
Use bungee cords, clips, or additional rope to make sure the tarp stays taut and doesn’t collapse under heavy rain.
Watch this video from Prepper Tek about “Using a Tarp to Harvest Rain Water”
Best Tarps for Rainwater Collection
1. Heavy Duty White Poly Tarp
Material: High-density polyethylene (HDPE) with UV-treated coating
Pros:
-
100% waterproof
-
UV-resistant to prevent degradation in sunlight
-
Mildew and rot resistant
-
Reflective surface helps reduce heat buildup
Size Options: Wide range, including 10x10, 12x20, 20x30 ft
Best for: Long-term outdoor use, large collection systems, and reflective needs in hot climates
2. Vinyl Tarp
Material: Industrial-grade PVC vinyl
Pros:
-
Extremely durable and tear-resistant
-
Fully waterproof and UV-resistant
-
Resistant to chemicals and abrasions
-
Ideal for long-term, heavy-duty use
Size: Customizable, often available in large formats (e.g., 18x20, 20x30 ft)
Best for: Permanent or semi-permanent rainwater harvesting setups, industrial or high-demand environments
3. Clear Tarp
Material: Transparent polyethylene or PVC
Pros:
-
Waterproof while allowing light through
-
Flexible and easy to manage
-
UV-treated for outdoor longevity
Size: Available in multiple sizes (e.g., 8x10, 10x20 ft)
Best for: Greenhouse-style collection setups, where light transmission is beneficial
4. Heavy-Duty String Reinforced Clear Poly Tarp
Material: Clear poly sheeting reinforced with string mesh
Pros:
-
Excellent strength-to-weight ratio
-
Waterproof and UV-resistant
-
High tear resistance due to string reinforcement
-
Maintains transparency while offering added durability
Size Options: Available in standard and custom sizes (e.g., 10x12, 12x20 ft)
Best for: Long-term outdoor installations needing both visibility and resilience
Tips for Efficient Rainwater Harvesting
-
Clean the tarp regularly to prevent algae or debris buildup.
-
Use a pre-filter (like a mesh screen) at the collection point to reduce contaminants.
-
Cover your container to keep insects and debris out.
-
Store water safely if it will be used for drinking (filter and purify it first).
Final Thoughts
Setting up a tarp as a rainwater collection point is a simple, effective, and low-cost method for harvesting rainwater. Whether you're prepping for emergencies, living off-grid, or just conserving water in your backyard, a tarp setup can serve you well.
Invest in a quality tarp, follow the setup tips, and start collecting nature’s most precious resource—for free!
At Tarp Supply Inc.®, we offer a wide selection of high-quality tarps built to withstand the elements and optimize your rain harvesting setup. Whether you need the strength of Heavy Duty White Poly Tarps, the durability of Vinyl Tarps, the visibility of Clear Tarps, or the resilience of String Reinforced Clear Poly Tarps, we’ve got you covered—literally.
Don't settle for less when it comes to protecting your investment.
Shop now at Tarp Supply Inc.® and find the perfect tarp solution for your rainwater collection needs!
