Tarps can be very expensive, especially those used for commercial applications such as covering over gravel or other materials being hauled on the roadways, or for when you need to cover construction projects for the night. Repairing your tarp can mean getting more life out of it and not needing to replace it every time there is a rip or other damage, but you need to know how to do this right so you don't actually make the damage worse by using the wrong materials or techniques. Note a few tips in this regard.

1. Cleaning the tarp

Most plastic and vinyl tarps are best cleaned with rubbing alcohol before you try any repairs. This will remove dirt, dust, grime, oil, and other substances that won't allow the repair tapes to cling to the tarp itself. Be sure the tarp dries completely after applying the rubbing alcohol, and continue to re-apply and clean it until your rag or cloth no longer shows that you're picking up dirt from the tarp. Not cleaning your tarp properly and thoroughly can mean wasting your time and effort in fixing it, so be sure you don't overlook this important step.

2. Heat the area

Heat often allows adhesives to cling better to a substance or material, so it can be good to perform your tarp repairs in a heated area. Move the tarp into direct sunlight or, if it's cold outside, take it indoors and turn on a space heater. If the tarp is in the cold, this can keep it and the tape or repair material brittle and less likely to adhere, so heat the area of repairs for maximum adhesion.

3. Choose repair strength according to the tear

You may assume that a light-duty tape or repair kit can work well on a thin tarp that you only use to protect floors and surfaces, but you need to choose the strength of the tape or repair materials according to the size of the tear. If the tear is relatively small, you can use light-duty tape, but for larger tears, remember that these compromise the strength of the tarp itself. A light tape may not keep the tarp together since the material of the tarp itself is now weakened. You need heavy-duty tape or a stronger patching kit to hold together a longer cut or tear. Avoid using duct tape or other materials not meant for tarps, and choose the strength according to the damage.