We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Heavy Duty Waterproof Tarps 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

CARTMAN Finished Size 10x12 Feet Waterproof Green Tarp 8 Mil Thick, Multipurpose Protective Cover for Emergency Rain Shelter Camping Tarpaulin

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,280
Material
Size
Grommets

Most important from
4349 reviews

Material
Very sturdy materials at a reasonable price.
Size
Strong and large, offering excellent coverage.
Grommets
Grommets stretched but did not tear, maintaining the tarp's integrity.
Waterproofing
Held up perfectly with water weight, even under significant rainfall.

The CARTMAN 10x12 Feet Waterproof Green Tarp is a versatile and economical choice for those in need of reliable outdoor coverage. Its exact finished size ensures you get precisely what you order, which is a practical advantage for various applications. Made from polyethylene (PE) with an 8 mil thickness, it offers decent durability and weather resistance, making it suitable for emergency rain shelters, camping, and covering construction materials or equipment.

The tarp is both dustproof and waterproof, providing solid protection in harsh weather conditions. Additionally, it features heat-sealed and reinforced edges, which enhances its durability and prevents easy tearing or cracking. Metal grommets spaced every 36 inches and plastic corner reinforcements add to its sturdiness and ease of use, making securing the tarp straightforward.

One notable strength is its UV resistance, increasing its lifespan when exposed to sunlight. However, at 8 mils of thickness, it may not be as robust as some heavier-duty alternatives, like those with 10 or 12 mil thicknesses. This tarp is best suited for temporary use rather than permanent fixtures. Its lightweight nature (100 grams) makes it easy to handle but may not withstand extreme conditions over extended periods. The CARTMAN tarp is a great option for short-term outdoor protection with sufficient durability and convenience, but for more demanding heavy-duty needs, a thicker tarp might be preferable.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,280
Material
Size
Grommets

Most important from
4349 reviews

Material
Very sturdy materials at a reasonable price.
Size
Strong and large, offering excellent coverage.
Grommets
Grommets stretched but did not tear, maintaining the tarp's integrity.
Waterproofing
Held up perfectly with water weight, even under significant rainfall.
#2

Patiobay Tarp 16x20FT, 14 Mil Large Tarp, Tarps Heavy Duty Waterproof with Grommets Every 23.6", 420D Thick Plastic Tarp, UV Resistant Tear&Fade Resistant, Reinforced Edges for Outdoor Pool Camp Tent

Rating
9.8
Thickness
Waterproofing
Reinforcement

Most important from
1540 reviews

Thickness
Excellent value for money – thick, durable, and waterproof.
Waterproofing
Excellent value for money – thick, durable, and waterproof.
Reinforcement
Perfect for winter weather; holds up well against snowstorms and windy conditions.

The Patiobay Tarp is a robust option for those needing a heavy-duty waterproof tarp. With a thickness of 14 mil, it offers substantial durability and strength, suitable for various outdoor conditions. Made from high-quality polyethylene, this tarp is designed to withstand tearing, ripping, and rotting. Its UV resistance ensures it can handle prolonged exposure to sunlight without degrading, making it ideal for outdoor use.

The reinforced edges and metal grommets, spaced every 23.6 inches, provide secure fastening options, enhancing its stability in windy conditions. Additionally, the hem reinforcement with poly rope further bolsters its resistance to tearing and deformation. The tarp's waterproof nature makes it suitable for covering roofs, boats, pools, and outdoor furniture, while also being useful for creating canopy tents and camping adventures.

The size of 16x20 feet and weight of 13.18 pounds might make it cumbersome for some users to handle, especially for smaller or less physically demanding tasks. This tarp is best suited for users needing a reliable and durable solution for heavy-duty outdoor coverage and protection.

Rating
9.8
Thickness
Waterproofing
Reinforcement

Most important from
1540 reviews

Thickness
Excellent value for money – thick, durable, and waterproof.
Waterproofing
Excellent value for money – thick, durable, and waterproof.
Reinforcement
Perfect for winter weather; holds up well against snowstorms and windy conditions.

Buying Guide for the Best Heavy Duty Waterproof Tarps

When choosing a heavy-duty waterproof tarp, it's important to consider the specific needs of your project or application. Tarps come in various materials, sizes, and strengths, and selecting the right one can ensure that your belongings are protected from the elements. Here are some key specifications to consider when picking the best tarp for your needs.
MaterialThe material of the tarp is crucial as it determines the durability and waterproof capabilities. Common materials include polyethylene, canvas, and vinyl. Polyethylene tarps are lightweight, waterproof, and resistant to UV rays, making them ideal for general use. Canvas tarps are more breathable and durable but may not be completely waterproof unless treated. Vinyl tarps are the most durable and waterproof, suitable for heavy-duty applications. Choose the material based on the level of protection and durability you need.
ThicknessThickness is measured in mils (thousandths of an inch) and indicates the strength and durability of the tarp. Thinner tarps (5-10 mils) are suitable for light-duty tasks like covering furniture or temporary shelter. Medium thickness (10-20 mils) is good for more demanding uses such as covering vehicles or construction materials. Heavy-duty tarps (20+ mils) are best for extreme conditions and long-term use. Consider the intensity of the weather and the weight of the items you need to cover when choosing the thickness.
SizeThe size of the tarp should be large enough to cover your items completely with some extra to ensure full protection. Measure the dimensions of the area or objects you need to cover and choose a tarp that is slightly larger. Tarps come in a variety of sizes, so you can find one that fits your needs perfectly. If in doubt, it's better to go for a larger size to ensure complete coverage.
GrommetsGrommets are the metal rings along the edges of the tarp that allow you to tie it down securely. The spacing and quality of grommets are important for ensuring the tarp stays in place. Look for tarps with grommets spaced 18-36 inches apart for better security. High-quality grommets made of rust-resistant materials like brass or aluminum are preferable for long-term use. If you need to secure the tarp tightly, ensure it has enough grommets to distribute the tension evenly.
WaterproofingWaterproofing is essential for protecting your items from rain, snow, and moisture. Check if the tarp is labeled as waterproof or water-resistant. Waterproof tarps are completely impervious to water, while water-resistant tarps can repel water to some extent but may not hold up in heavy rain. For outdoor use or in areas with heavy rainfall, a fully waterproof tarp is recommended. Consider the weather conditions in your area when deciding on the level of waterproofing needed.
UV ResistanceUV resistance is important if the tarp will be exposed to sunlight for extended periods. UV-resistant tarps are treated to withstand the damaging effects of the sun's rays, preventing them from becoming brittle and breaking down over time. If you plan to use the tarp outdoors, especially in sunny climates, choose one with UV protection to ensure it lasts longer and maintains its strength.
ReinforcementReinforcement refers to the additional strength features like reinforced edges or corners that help the tarp withstand heavy use and harsh conditions. Reinforced tarps have extra stitching, thicker hems, or additional layers at stress points to prevent tearing and fraying. If you need a tarp for heavy-duty applications or expect it to face strong winds and rough handling, look for one with reinforced features to ensure it holds up under pressure.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now