When preparing for hurricane season, tarps are among the most important items to keep in your emergency kit. They serve as temporary roof coverings, provide waterproof shelter, and protect property from further damage after a storm. However, owning tarps alone is not enough—proper storage and maintenance ensure they remain durable and ready for immediate use when disaster strikes.
In this comprehensive guide, we share detailed tips on how to store, clean, inspect, and maintain tarps as part of your hurricane preparedness strategy.
Why Tarps Are Essential in Hurricane Preparedness
Tarps are versatile, lightweight, and durable, making them indispensable after hurricanes. They provide:
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Roof protection when shingles or tiles are damaged.
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Ground coverage to protect belongings from water and mud.
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Emergency shelters when homes become uninhabitable.
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Wind barriers to reduce further structural damage.
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Moisture control by preventing water intrusion.
By ensuring your tarps are in optimal condition, you maximize your protection and avoid last-minute surprises during emergencies.
Best Practices for Storing Tarps
Improper storage can reduce a tarp’s lifespan, causing mildew, brittleness, or tearing when you need it most. Follow these storage practices:
1. Clean Before Storing
Always clean tarps before placing them in storage. Dirt, salt, and debris weaken the fibers and lead to mold. Use mild soap and water, rinse thoroughly, and allow tarps to air-dry completely before folding.
2. Fold Neatly and Evenly
Creasing tarps haphazardly can cause stress points that weaken the fabric. Fold tarps evenly, smoothing out air pockets. For long-term storage, roll instead of folding to reduce creases.
3. Store in a Dry, Cool Place
Moisture and heat are tarp enemies. Keep tarps in plastic bins or heavy-duty storage bags in a garage, basement, or storage closet away from direct sunlight and humidity.
4. Avoid Sharp Objects
Ensure tarps are stored away from nails, tools, or rough surfaces that could puncture them. Use protective covers or bags for added protection.
How to Maintain Tarps for Long-Term Use
Routine maintenance extends the life of your tarps and ensures they are storm-ready.
1. Regular Inspections
At least twice a year—preferably before hurricane season—inspect tarps for:
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Holes or tears along seams and grommets.
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Discoloration or mildew indicating water damage.
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Frayed edges from friction or improper folding.
2. Repair Immediately
Small damages can worsen if left unchecked. Use tarp repair tape, patch kits, or heavy-duty adhesive for quick fixes. For torn grommets, install replacements to maintain secure anchoring.
3. Apply UV and Waterproofing Treatments
Tarps degrade faster under UV rays. Applying a UV-resistant spray helps maintain flexibility and strength. Re-coating tarps with a waterproofing solution prevents leaks and extends protection.
4. Rotate Tarps in Storage
If you own multiple tarps, rotate their use so that one doesn’t bear the brunt of wear. This practice balances their lifespan and ensures every tarp is dependable.
Types of Tarps Ideal for Hurricane Kits
Not all tarps are created equal. Choosing the right type makes a difference in emergencies.
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Poly Tarps – Lightweight, affordable, and waterproof; best for temporary coverings.
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Canvas Tarps – Breathable and durable; ideal for covering items that need ventilation.
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Vinyl Tarps – Extremely heavy-duty and resistant to abrasion, wind, and UV exposure.
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Mesh Tarps – Allow airflow while providing shade; useful for securing debris.
Having a mix of tarp types ensures you are prepared for different post-storm scenarios.
Tips for Preparing Tarps Before Hurricane Season
Being proactive is key to storm readiness. Here’s how to prepare your tarps in advance:
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Label and organize each tarp by size and type for quick access.
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Bundle with rope or bungee cords so they’re ready to deploy instantly.
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Keep hardware kits (nails, screws, ropes, grommets, and duct tape) together with your tarps.
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Pre-test tarps by setting one up in your yard to ensure you know how to secure them quickly.
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Create a tarp inventory checklist to avoid last-minute panic when a hurricane approaches.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Tarp Storage and Maintenance
Even the best tarps can fail if handled improperly. Avoid these mistakes:
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Storing tarps while damp, which causes mildew and rot.
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Leaving tarps in direct sunlight, leading to UV degradation.
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Folding without cleaning, allowing dirt to grind into fibers.
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Failing to replace worn grommets, which can cause complete failure in strong winds.
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Using tarps beyond their lifespan, risking tears at critical moments.
Conclusion: Keep Your Tarps Hurricane-Ready
A well-prepared hurricane kit should always include tarps that are clean, dry, inspected, and stored correctly. By investing time in maintenance, you ensure your tarps will perform when your home, property, and family need them most.
At Tarp Supply Inc.®, we provide a wide selection of durable, heavy-duty tarps designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and keep you protected during emergencies. Don’t wait until a storm is on the radar—stock up now and keep your hurricane kit complete and reliable.
