Coated and laminated vinyl tarps have several similarities and differences even though both tarps are made from the same material. A laminated tarp is strong, flame retardant, and best used indoors while a coated one is generally more expensive, but ideal of outdoor applications. The best way to decide which style is best for you is to take a close look at the pros and cons of each type.

Laminated Vinyl Tarps

Laminated Vinyl tarps are frequently seen indoors as a divider or cover in gyms and recreation centers. They are also coated with a flame retardant substance that makes them ideal for salvage covers. They are considerably stronger than the blue ones often seen for a slightly higher cost and are available in a wide range of sizes and colors. Unlike canvas tarps, this style does not shrink with time.

Laminated vinyl tarpaulin is designed to be used specifically for indoor purposes only and they are not suitable for outdoors tarp applications. Laminated vinyl tarps are not coated with UV protection and will not stand up freezing cold temperatures. When they get very cold, they will also become stiff causing them to and crack and tear easily.

Coated Vinyl Tarps

Coated varieties make an excellent choice for outdoors. This includes covering sports fields such as baseball diamonds and football fields. They also make a good choice for covering roofs, construction sites and equipment covers, material covers, and load covers for trucks. So long as they are used properly and cared for, they will last considerably longer than blue polyethylene and many other styles used for the outdoors.

Their resilience and durability make them ideal for virtually any outdoor application. They are coated with UV protection so that they do not disintegrate in the sun. The coating with the strength of the vinyl prevents them from tearing even when they are on a moving vehicle and exposed to high winds. These traits in conjunction with their waterproof coating and heavier weave make them a popular choice for truck covers.

As with laminated vinyl, these tarps do not shrink with the passage of time. Unlike their laminated counterparts, this material will not become brittle or tear when it gets cold. As an added benefit, they can be found in virtually any color and size.

Coated vinyl tarps last longer in the outdoors, but they too have their down sides. Because they are heavier and are treated with additional coatings, they have a higher cost per square inch. They can be purchased in many different colors, but this color will fade with extended exposure to the sun. Red and dark colors are particularly known for this problem. Coated vinyl covers can also be abrasive.

Coated and laminated vinyl tarps are both great choices provided they match what you need them for. Laminated styles are ideal for indoor applications, are much stronger than blue poly, and affordable. Coated vinyl tarps are a popular choice for outdoor purposes because of their durability and superior strength when it comes to surviving the elements with a slightly higher price.