Tarpaulins are typically made from durable industrial fabrics such as PVC coated polyester, polyethylene, nylon or canvas depending on the intended use. Each material delivers different levels of waterproofing, strength and abrasion resistance, so the right choice depends on whether you need short term cover or long term protection on a construction site.
Why material matters for tarpaulins
For builders, owner builders, insurers and make safe companies, the material in a tarpaulin determines how well it protects a job site from weather, dust and wind. Cheap polyethylene options can work for minor, short term tasks. For commercial roof cover, restoration or long term protection you need heavy duty tarpaulins with proven UV and waterproof performance.
Choosing the correct material reduces downtime, avoids moisture damage and keeps trades working to schedule. Flynn Tarps focuses on hire solutions that prioritise reliability, speed of deployment and compliance with site safety.
Common materials used in tarpaulins
PVC coated polyester
PVC coated polyester is the industry standard for commercial tarpaulins.
Fully waterproof and UV stabilised.
High tear and abrasion resistance.
Suits long term outdoor exposure on roofs and scaffolding.
This is the material we recommend for roof covers and make safe work where durability and weatherproofing are non negotiable.
Polyethylene
Polyethylene tarpaulins are lightweight and low cost.
Useful for temporary cover or short term storage.
Less UV stability and lower tear strength than PVC.
Best used as a stopgap rather than a long term site solution.
Nylon and polyester fabrics
Nylon and woven polyester fabrics offer a strong strength to weight ratio.
Good for portable covers and some protective uses.
Can be laminated or coated to improve waterproofing.
Not all nylon or polyester options are suitable for prolonged roof cover without additional coating.
Canvas
Canvas provides breathability and moderate strength.
Not fully waterproof unless treated.
Useful where condensation management or breathability is required.
Not recommended for extended roof protection in wet climates.
Key performance features to check
When hiring tarpaulins for a job, prioritise these specifications:
Waterproof rating and seam seal method.
UV stabilisation for long term sun exposure.
Reinforced edges and eyelets for secure tie downs.
Tear strength and abrasion resistance suitable for site conditions.
Fire retardant certification where required by site safety rules.
These factors are the difference between a tarpaulin that protects a project and one that creates a new problem in high wind or heavy rain.
Why hire commercial tarpaulins instead of buying cheap options
Hiring tarpaulins from a specialist gives you immediate access to certified, heavy duty covers and professional installation. That matters because:
Rapid response keeps projects moving after storm damage.
Professional installation reduces safety and compliance risks.
Cost per use is often lower than repeatedly replacing cheap tarps.
Large inventory means availability during peak storm seasons.
Flynn Tarps provides same day or next day tarpaulins hire across Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane with experienced installers who follow site safety requirements.
How to choose the right tarpaulins for your job
Identify the duration of cover required.
Match the material to the exposure and workload.
Check for reinforced edges, suitable eyelets and certified seams.
Book hire with professional installation when working at height or on roofs.
Call to action
If your project needs dependable weather protection, hire tarpaulins online today in Melbourne, Sydney or Brisbane. Flynn Tarps supplies heavy duty PVC and specialist covers with fast delivery and professional installation to protect your build, materials and deadlines.
FAQs
What are tarpaulins made of for roof work?
For roof work we recommend PVC coated polyester tarpaulins because they are fully waterproof, UV stabilised and resistant to tearing and abrasion.
Can I hire tarpaulins for emergency roof cover?
Yes. Flynn Tarps offers emergency tarpaulins hire with fast installation to prevent further water ingress and help insurers assess damage safely.
How long do hire tarpaulins last on site?
Durable PVC tarpaulins can remain effective for months while hired, provided they are correctly installed and regularly inspected for secure fixings.