Ethan Clarke
Tarps have been around for hundreds of years, with the original use being on the high seas. The word tarpaulin was first used by 17th-century sailors to refer to a tar-coated canvas cloth that protected cargo at sea. In the 20th century, canvas was replaced by woven plastic, and tarpaulins became widely used for clothing, livestock shelters, and camping. The Blue Tarp Tarpaulin Age began when someone realized that fabric and oil/wax created temporary waterproofing. The breakthrough for the blue tarp came in the 1970s when manufacturers wove carbon chains and coated them with vinyl, creating a tougher, rip-stop product. Today, tarps are indispensable and have dozens of applications, from disaster relief to agriculture.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Date of Invention | The 1970s |
| Material | Polyethylene |
| Colour | Blue |
| Features | Lightweight, foldable, waterproof, rip-stop |
| Uses | Clothing, signage, livestock shelters, greenhouses, fume and dust containment, pool lining, sports-field protection, camping, disaster relief, roofing |
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What You'll Learn
Tarps were originally made from animal skins and woven plant fibres
Tarps have evolved into indispensable tools with a wide range of applications, from agriculture to construction and disaster relief. Their history showcases human ingenuity and adaptability in the face of nature's challenges. The idea of using tarps, derived from the word "tarpaulins," dates back to ancient civilizations.
In their earliest form, tarps were crafted from animal skins, leaves, and woven plant fibres by ancient societies, including the Greeks and Romans. These early tarps provided protection against rain, wind, and sun. The term "tarpaulin" emerged in the 17th century when sailors used tarred canvas cloths to safeguard cargo during sea voyages. This innovation paved the way for advancements during the Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries, with canvas tarps gaining popularity for their durability and versatility.
The history of tarps underwent a significant transformation during World War II. The military demanded more advanced and weather-resistant materials, leading to the creation of waterproof "poly tarps" made from polyethylene. These lightweight and robust tarps found extensive applications in various industries after the war.
Today, tarps are available in various materials, sizes, and designs, each tailored to specific needs. Polyethylene tarps, or "polytarps," are widely used for their waterproofing and UV-resistant properties. Canvas tarps are favoured for their breathability and durability, while vinyl tarps are chosen for heavy-duty applications due to their resistance to harsh weather conditions. The evolution of tarps continues, with innovations in coatings, UV resistance, and fire-retardant materials, ensuring their enduring relevance and adaptability to meet the changing demands of various industries.
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The word tarpaulin was first used by 17th-century sailors
Over time, the tarpaulin evolved from tar-covered canvas to more durable synthetic fibres, with polyurethane replacing tar in the 20th century, and canvas being superseded by woven plastic. The Industrial Revolution of the 18th and 19th centuries brought about significant advancements in tarpaulin technology, and the tarp industry continues to innovate with high-tech coatings, UV resistance, and fire-retardant materials.
The tarpaulin has had a wide range of uses over the years, from protecting cargo and sailors at sea to being used in construction, agriculture, disaster relief, and even fashion. During World War II, the military demanded more advanced and weather-resistant materials, leading to the creation of waterproof tarps, commonly known as "poly tarps", made from polyethylene. These tarps were lightweight, waterproof, and durable, making them ideal for various military applications.
Today, tarps are an indispensable tool, with North American factories producing tens of millions of square yards annually, and they have become a cultural icon, especially in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. Tarps have also been used in communities of indigenous North Americans as a building material, with tipis made with tarps known as "tarpees".
While the original use of the word "tarpaulin" may be attributed to 17th-century sailors, the evolution of the tarp and its widespread adoption across various industries have made it a versatile and essential tool in the modern world.
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Tarps were used to protect cargo at sea
Tarps have been used to protect cargo at sea for hundreds of years. The original use for a tarp was on the high seas, where sailors coated sheets of canvas in tar to protect goods from salt spray and water damage during transit. The word "tarpaulin" was first used by 17th-century sailors, combining the words “tar” and “pall”, the fabric used as a cover.
The tarp has had a rich history, with its earliest known use dating back to ancient societies, including the Greeks and Romans, who used basic materials like animal skins, leaves, and woven plant fibers to create rudimentary tarps that shielded them from the elements.
In the 17th century, sailors began using tarpaulins to protect precious cargo during perilous sea voyages. The Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries brought significant advancements in tarpaulin technology, and the tarp moved inland, finding new applications in land travel and transportation.
During World War II, the military demanded more advanced and weather-resistant materials, leading to the creation of waterproof poly tarps crafted from polyethylene. These innovations made their way into civilian life after the war, and tarps became indispensable in various industries, including agriculture, construction, and transportation.
Today, tarps are typically coated with polyethylene and other plastics to ensure a leak-free surface. They come in various colors, but blue tarps are particularly popular due to their rich coloring, durability, and versatility. The iconic blue tarp has become a symbol of American resilience, often used to provide temporary shelter during disasters and emergencies.
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Polyethylene replaced canvas tarps in the 20th century
Tarps have been used since ancient times, with early tarps being made from basic materials such as animal skins, leaves, and woven plant fibres. In the 17th century, sailors used the term "tarpaulin" to refer to a canvas cloth coated with tar to protect cargo during sea voyages. Over time, advancements were made in tarpaulin technology, with the Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries bringing significant improvements. During World War II, the military demanded more advanced and weather-resistant materials, leading to the creation of waterproof "poly tarps" made from polyethylene.
In the mid-20th century, the advent of new synthetic materials like polyethylene (PE) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) revolutionised the tarp industry. These materials offered improved resistance to water, UV light, and other elements, making them ideal for outdoor use. Polyethylene tarpaulins, also known as "polytarps," are made by weaving strips of polyethylene plastic and bonding sheets of the same material to the surface. This creates a fabric-like material that is flexible, lightweight, and waterproof.
The new synthetic tarps were also more affordable and versatile than their canvas counterparts. They found extensive applications in various industries, including agriculture, construction, and transportation. Canvas tarps, while durable and water-resistant, were not completely waterproof and were prone to leaking when exposed to standing water. Polyethylene tarps, on the other hand, provided excellent waterproofing and remained lightweight, making them the preferred choice for many.
The widespread adoption of polyethylene tarps led to the decline of canvas tarps. Canvas tarps, once a staple in industries requiring heavy-duty protection, were now being replaced by the more versatile and affordable polyethylene alternative. The advantages of polyethylene tarps, including their waterproofing capabilities and lightweight nature, outweighed the disadvantages, such as their lack of breathability.
Today, tarps continue to evolve with innovations in coatings, UV resistance, and fire-retardant materials, pushing the boundaries of their capabilities. While the traditional brick-and-mortar shopping for tarps has given way to convenient online purchases, the demand for tarps remains high across various industries, with North American factories producing tens of millions of square yards annually. The story of the blue plastic tarp, from its military origins to its fashion statement in post-disaster New Orleans, showcases its enduring relevance and versatility in the modern world.
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Blue tarps are popular due to their rich, long-lasting colour
Tarps have been used for hundreds of years, with the original version being used by sailors to protect goods and sailors themselves from the elements, particularly water damage. The word "tarpaulin" was first used by 17th-century sailors to refer to a tar-coated canvas cloth. Over time, tarps have been made from various materials, including nylon, canvas, cotton, plastic, polyester, and even metal.
The iconic blue tarp has become a household staple worldwide due to its rich, long-lasting colour. Blue tarps are popular for several reasons. Firstly, the distinctive blue colour is a result of the dye used in the manufacturing process, which creates a rich and aesthetically pleasing shade. This colour is not found in nature, making it unique and easily recognisable.
Secondly, the blue colour of the tarp is practical as it tends to last longer than other colours. The dye used is resistant to fading, ensuring that the tarp maintains its vibrant appearance even with prolonged use and exposure to the elements. This makes blue tarps a cost-effective and durable option for consumers.
Additionally, blue tarps offer a blend of shade and light transmission, making them versatile for various applications. They can provide protection from the sun while still allowing some light to pass through, creating a comfortable and well-lit space underneath. This makes them ideal for use in camping, outdoor events, and temporary shelters.
The blue tarp's popularity can also be attributed to its affordability and accessibility. They are typically made from polyethylene, a lightweight and durable synthetic material that is inexpensive to produce. This has led to their widespread production and availability, with tens of millions of square yards being manufactured annually in North America alone.
Blue tarps have become a cultural phenomenon, with fashion shows and post-disaster relief efforts incorporating their distinctive look. They have evolved from simple sheet polyethylene to woven, vinyl-coated versions that are tougher and more rip-resistant. With their versatility, durability, and unique colour, blue tarps have earned their place as a modern marvel.
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Frequently asked questions
The "Blue Tarp" Tarpaulin Age began when someone realized that fabric and oil/wax provided temporary waterproofing. The term tarpaulin was first used by 17th-century sailors to refer to a tar-coated canvas cloth that covered cargo at sea.
Blue tarps are typically coated with polyethylene and other plastics to ensure a leak-free surface.
Blue tarps are used for hundreds of unique applications. They are commonly used for protection from the elements, such as rain and snow.
Blue tarps have become a ubiquitous sight in TV disaster footage, particularly in post-hurricane coverage. They have been described as "American miracles" and have even been featured in a fashion show.
The tarp industry continues to evolve with innovations like high-tech coatings, UV resistance, and fire-retardant materials. Tarps have become essential in various industries, including agriculture and disaster relief.
