Tarps are one of the most versatile items to have in your home or garage. The wide variety of sizes and materials makes them useful in many applications, from protecting your car or boat from the elements to using them to transport leaves and debris around your yard.
When new, these covers can protect just about anything, but they eventually wear out. Like most things, they can be reused and reused when they have outgrown their original function. Instead of throwing them away, here are some creative uses for an old tarp.
Reusing your tarps
The reuse of a tarp depends on the type of material from which it is made. Polyethylene materials are great for waterproofing applications, while canvas is better suited for items that need breathability. With a good pair of scissors and some creativity there is no limit to what you can do with an old tarp!
Protect smaller items from the elements
Just because a tarp is damaged in one area doesn’t mean it’s all bad. With a little creativity, you can remodel old material for use in the same application. For example, a ship’s deck can break and weaken over time at the top, which is where it receives the most direct sunlight, rain, wind, and snow. But the sides may still be in great shape. If so, you can easily cut out the damaged parts of the tarp and cut out the good parts to fit other applications. The deck on a boat can be cut into an engine, seat, or battery cover, used to wrap fishing gear or protect the trailer’s spare tire. Use bungee cords to hold them in place.
Probably one of the most common uses for tarps, old and new, is to cover your backyard firewood pile to keep firewood dry. You can take that a step further by covering your backyard fire pit if you know you’ll be using it soon, but rain is forecast. When a tarp wears out, check for sections that are still in good shape, then cut them down to a manageable size and use it to create a handy log holder.
Protect delicate areas
The tarp offers protection against moisture but allows air to circulate. In their prime, painters often use canvas tarps as drop cloths and to protect exterior elements from rust. Once worn, rips, rips, and holes make it difficult for these tarps to remain waterproof, but they still serve many functions. They can be used to protect plantations, flower beds and garden crops from early or late frost or used as a trunk or truck bed liners if you are transporting muddy or dirty materials or want to protect the interior surface of your vehicle.
Fun for kids
You can use your old tarps in just about any situation where you need to protect or cover something, but they can also be used for old-fashioned fun. Lay the tarp on a string that hangs between two trees and make a play tent for your children. Use to cover a litter box or kiddy pool or create a canopy to provide a shady area to play with. Place it on the floor and let them sit on it during difficult activities like playing with playdough or finger painting. Cleaning will be a breeze!
The next time you are faced with a worn tarp, take a minute to think of other ways you could use it or parts of it. You will be amazed at how many ways an old tarp can be reused. In the process, you’ll save money by not having to buy new products for these uses, and you’ll also extend the life of your tarp.