The History of Tarps: a Comprehensive Journey

A tarp is a simple yet indispensable piece of outdoor equipment, and its history is a fascinating one. This journey started with humble beginnings as primitive shelters made from animal hides and transitioned to the highly versatile and durable tarps of the modern era. Humans have successfully adapted to nature’s challenges and this guide will walk you through the history of tarps and highlight its journey through time.

The Birth of the Tarp

Tarps can be traced back to ancient civilizations, and the idea of employing materials to guard against nature’s forces is as ancient as history itself. In its earliest days, tarps were made from basic materials like animal skins, leaves and woven plant fibres and served as a shield against rain, wind and sun. Tarps were used in different ancient societies, including the Greeks and Romans. 

It is believed that the term “tarpaulin” first made an appearance in the lexicon of 17th-century sailors and was created to shield precious cargo during perilous sea voyages. 

In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Industrial Revolution brought about significant advancements in tarpaulin technology, and canvas tarps became very popular because of their durability and versatility. Canvas was used for a variety of purposes including covering goods during transport to sheltering troops in military campaigns. 

During World War II, tarps transformed significantly because the military required more advanced and weather-resistant materials which resulted in the creation of waterproof tarps, which are commonly known as poly tarps. These tarps were made from polyethylene which is a synthetic material that provided excellent waterproofing while remaining lightweight, which made it the perfect choice for various military uses. 

After the war, tarps started to make their way into the civilian domain and started to be used in a range of industries for different applications. Robust and waterproof tarps started to be used in the fields of agriculture, construction and transportation and were employed to shield merchandise, safeguard crops and offer temporary refuge during emergencies. 

The Modern Tarp

Today, tarps are used in almost all industries because they are such a versatile and indispensable tool. Tarps are available in various materials, sizes and designs, and each one is tailored to specific applications. 

Popular tarp types include:

1. Poly tarps. Polyethylene tarps are popular because of their waterproof and UV-resistant properties. They are commonly used for outdoor protection and are available in different colours and thicknesses. 
2. Canvas tarps. This is a favourite because of its breathability and durability. Canvas tarps are often used for artistic purposes as drop cloths or as covers for outdoor wood piles. 
3. Vinyl tarps. These are heavy-duty and resistant to harsh weather conditions. Vinyl tarps are often used in industrial settings and for covering vehicles and equipment. 
4. Mesh tarps. These are designed with perforated material, which allows wind and sunlight to pass through. They are commonly used as shade structures and for covering materials that require ventilation. 

The Future of Tarps

The tarp industry continues to evolve as we move forward, and there are no limits in terms of what can be achieved. Innovations like high-tech coatings, UV resistance and fire-retardant materials are pushing the boundaries and there is no denying the fact that tarps have become an essential component in various industries all the way from agriculture to disaster relief. 

The Evolution of Tarp Purchasing

Just like many other industries, the evolution of tarp buying has undergone a remarkable transformation from traditional in-store shopping to the convenience of online purchases. Not too long ago, those who wanted a tarp had no choice but to go to physical stores and look through the different aisles and spend hours in-store looking for what they were after. This is no longer the case, and buyers can now conveniently shop online and receive a high-quality tarp fast!

Customers now have the option to explore an extensive array of tarp options, compare prices and read reviews from the comfort of their own home. If you like what you see, you can make a purchase with just a few clicks and this shift has revolutionized the way consumers shop for tarps and has also opened up opportunities for businesses to reach a global customer base. Businesses are also able to offer a more diverse range of tarp materials, sizes and designs to cater to the different needs of their customers.

In addition to convenience, the transition from physical stores to one-click tarp buying has also increased transparency and competition within the industry. Consumers now have access to a ton of information which allows them to make better and more informed decisions about tarps. In-store purchases can still offer a great experience, but online shopping has simplified the process and expanded options which can enhance customer satisfaction. 

Bottom Line

The history of tarps proves this product has adapted to the changing needs of humans and their environments. What started as a humble beginning has transformed into a specialized industry, and tarps are very versatile and can be used in a variety of different industries. Tarps can protect goods in transit, provide shelter in emergencies or enhance outdoor experiences which makes tarps an invaluable asset. 

Tarps continue to be a valuable and ever-evolving solution to the challenges of everyday life. 

Choose Supreme Tarps for Quality

Are you in need of a high-quality tarp? Supreme Tarps has everything you need! Whether you want to protect your outdoor furniture or are a construction contractor in need of a heavy-duty construction tarp, our products are reliable, and we’ve got you covered!