The Complete Guide to Custom Heavy Duty Vinyl Tarps (Printed & Non-Printed)

Introduction: Why Are Vinyl Tarps Essential?

Vinyl tarps are more than just protective covers—they serve as a versatile solution for heavy-duty protection and high-impact branding. Whether shielding equipment at a construction site, covering outdoor storage, or promoting your business at an event, custom vinyl tarps are a staple for both function and visibility.

According to market research, the global tarp industry has seen a steady annual growth of 4–5%, largely due to rising demand in construction, logistics, and event management sectors. In our internal surveys at PrintDrill, nearly 70% of small businesses that purchase tarps use them for dual purposes: protection and branding.

What Makes a Vinyl Tarp “Heavy Duty”?

Not all tarps are created equal. What sets a heavy duty vinyl tarp apart is its thickness, material strength, and weather resistance.

Key Attributes of Heavy Duty Vinyl Tarps

• Thickness: Measured in ounces (oz) and mils. Common options include 13 oz, 18 oz, and 20 oz, with higher weights offering greater durability.
• Tear Resistance: Reinforced PVC coating makes them less likely to rip under stress.
• UV Resistance: Prevents sun damage, ideal for prolonged outdoor use.
• Waterproofing: 100% waterproof, unlike canvas or poly tarps that can leak under pressure.

Grades of Vinyl Tarps

1. Heavy Duty Vinyl Tarp (13 oz, ~15 mils): General protection, affordable, widely used.
2. Super Heavy Duty Vinyl Tarp (18 oz, ~18 mils): Stronger resistance, ideal for construction and frequent handling.
3. Super Duper Heavy Duty Vinyl Tarp (20 oz, ~28 mils): The ultimate choice for long-term outdoor exposure and extreme durability.

 

What’s the Difference Between Printed and Non-Printed Vinyl Tarps?

When choosing a tarp, businesses must decide whether they need a plain cover or a custom-printed promotional tool.

Non-Printed Vinyl Tarps

• Best for storage, transportation, and equipment protection.
• Commonly used in construction sites to cover scaffolding, tools, and materials.
• Affordable and purely functional.

Printed Vinyl Tarps

• Serve as dual-purpose tarps: protection + branding.
• Ideal for construction companies, event organizers, sports venues, and outdoor promotions.
• Example: A construction company prints its logo and safety message on scaffolding covers for visibility and professionalism.

What Customization Options Are Available?

One of the greatest advantages of custom vinyl tarps is their flexibility in size, finish, and printing.

Size Customization

• Cut-to-size options allow perfect fit for small or large areas.
• Large format tarps available for covering stages, fields, or large equipment.

Finishing Options

• Grommets: Metal eyelets for easy tie-downs.
• D-Rings: Stronger anchoring, great for high-wind areas.
• Webbing: Reinforced edges for additional durability.

Printing Options

• Single Color: Budget-friendly, effective for simple branding.
• Full Color: Best for high-impact graphics and promotions.
• Large Format Printing: Allows logos, slogans, and visuals to be seen from a distance.

What Are the Most Common Use Cases for Vinyl Tarps?

Vinyl tarps are versatile and widely used across industries. Some of the most common use cases include:

• Construction Covers & Site Branding:
  • Covering scaffolding, materials, and tools.
  • Printed tarps double as advertising boards.
• Transportation (Truck Covers, Cargo Protection):
  • Keeps cargo safe from rain, dust, and debris.
  • Prevents theft by covering valuable goods.
• Sports & Events:
  • Field covers to protect turf.
  • Branded tarps as stage backdrops and promotional signage.
• Industrial Storage:
  • Covering machinery and outdoor inventory.
  • Protecting goods from UV exposure and weather damage.

 

How Do You Choose the Right Grade of Tarp?

Grade	Best For
Heavy Duty (13 oz)	General outdoor use, short-term coverage, affordable protection.
Super Heavy Duty (18 oz)	Construction sites, transport, frequent handling, medium-term outdoor use.
Super Duper Heavy Duty (22 oz)	Long-term outdoor exposure, industrial storage, extreme durability.

 

FAQs About Custom Vinyl Tarps

Q: Are vinyl tarps waterproof?
A: Yes, all vinyl tarps are 100% waterproof and ideal for rain protection.

Q: Can I order custom printed vinyl tarps with logos?
A: Absolutely! Full-color printing options are available for promotional use.

Q: What’s the difference between heavy, super heavy, and super duper heavy tarps?
A: The main differences are thickness, weight, and durability. Heavier grades last longer and withstand harsher conditions.

Q: Do vinyl tarps come with grommets or D-rings?
A: Yes, you can customize the finishing to include grommets, D-rings, webbing, or reinforced corners.

Conclusion + CTA: Where Can You Order Heavy Duty Vinyl Tarps?

Vinyl tarps are not just about coverage—they are about durability, adaptability, and branding impact. Whether you need a plain tarp for protection or a printed one for advertising, the right tarp can save money, protect assets, and build visibility.

👉 Order Printed Heavy Duty Vinyl Tarp
👉 Order Non-Printed Heavy Duty Vinyl Tarp

Infographic Idea: Final visual showing two tarps side-by-side (printed with logo vs plain cover).