Tarpaulin vs. Tarp — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 20, 2024
Tarpaulin, often a large, waterproof material used in protective coverings, is generally more formal and detailed, whereas 'tarp' is a casual shorthand used more frequently in everyday language.
Difference Between Tarpaulin and Tarp
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A tarpaulin is typically made from heavy-duty materials like polyethylene or canvas, offering robust protection against elements like rain, wind, and sunlight. On the other hand, a tarp, while essentially referring to the same type of protective covering, often implies a lighter, more versatile usage, convenient for everyday tasks such as covering vehicles or as a makeshift shelter.
Both tarpaulin and tarp serve the primary function of providing a protective layer; however, the term tarpaulin might be used more specifically in contexts requiring detailed specifications, such as industrial or military applications. Whereas tarp is more commonly found in casual conversation, hinting at non-specific use and potentially less durable material.
Tarpaulins are often designed for long-term use, featuring reinforced edges and grommets for securing them in place. Whereas tarps might not always have such detailed features and can be used for temporary solutions, reflecting a difference in durability and intended use.
The usage context of tarpaulin often aligns with professional, commercial, or long-term protective scenarios, emphasizing its heavy-duty nature. On the other hand, tarps are synonymous with quick, easy solutions for everyday problems, such as covering a leaking roof temporarily until repairs can be made.
While both terms describe essentially the same item, the choice between tarpaulin and tarp can also reflect regional language preferences. In some places, tarpaulin may be the more commonly recognized term, whereas in others, tarp is the go-to term for the general population.
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Comparison Chart
Material
Usually heavy-duty like polyethylene or canvas
Often lighter materials, less specified
Usage
Long-term and heavy-duty applications
Temporary and versatile applications
Design Features
Reinforced edges, grommets for securing
May lack reinforcement and additional securing features
Common Context
Industrial, military, and commercial
Household, recreational, and immediate makeshift solutions
Formality
More formal and specified term
Casual, everyday shorthand
Compare with Definitions
Tarpaulin
Often made from materials such as polyethylene or canvas.
The tarpaulin was sturdy enough to withstand the harsh weather.
Tarp
A shorthand for tarpaulin, usually implies a lighter material.
He quickly threw a tarp over the woodpile before the storm hit.
Tarpaulin
Emphasizes a more formal application and durability.
For the expedition, they chose a tarpaulin known for its ruggedness.
Tarp
Can be easily moved or adjusted for various needs.
They spread a tarp on the ground for the picnic.
Tarpaulin
A large piece of waterproof material used as a protective cover.
The workers covered the construction site with a tarpaulin to protect it from the rain.
Tarp
Often associated with quick and practical solutions.
When the window broke, a tarp was taped over it until it could be fixed.
Tarpaulin
A heavy-duty covering used in various protective scenarios.
They draped a tarpaulin over the boat for the winter.
Tarp
Versatile and used for temporary protection.
We used a tarp to create a makeshift shelter during our hike.
Tarpaulin
Used in settings that require robust protection.
The military tents were made of high-quality tarpaulin.
Tarp
Less formal, commonly used in everyday language.
Grab a tarp from the garage to cover the grill.
Tarpaulin
A tarpaulin ( tar-PAW-lin, also US: ) or tarp is a large sheet of strong, flexible, water-resistant or waterproof material, often cloth such as canvas or polyester coated with polyurethane, or made of plastics such as polyethylene. Tarpaulins often have reinforced grommets at the corners and along the sides to form attachment points for rope, allowing them to be tied down or suspended.
Tarp
A tarpaulin.
Tarpaulin
Material, such as waterproofed canvas, used to cover and protect things from moisture.
Tarp
A tarpaulin.
Tarpaulin
A sheet of this material.
Tarp
To cover something with a tarpaulin.
Tarpaulin
(countable) A tarp, a heavy, waterproof sheet of material, often cloth, used as a cover or blanket.
Throw a tarpaulin over that woodpile before it gets wet.
Tarp
Waterproofed canvas
Tarpaulin
A sailor.
Tarpaulin
Any heavy, waterproof material used as a cover.
Tarpaulin
Canvas waterproofed with tar, used as a cover.
Tarpaulin
A hat made of, or covered with, painted or tarred cloth, worn by sailors and others.
Tarpaulin
To cover with a tarpaulin.
Tarpaulin
A piece of canvas covered with tar or a waterproof composition, used for covering the hatches of a ship, hammocks, boats, etc.
Tarpaulin
A hat made of, or covered with, painted or tarred cloth, worn by sailors and others.
Tarpaulin
Hence, a sailor; a seaman; a tar.
To a landsman, these tarpaulins, as they were called, seemed a strange and half-savage race.
Tarpaulin
Waterproofed canvas
Common Curiosities
Which is better for camping, tarpaulin or tarp?
For camping, a tarp is often more suitable due to its lightweight and versatility.
What is the main material used for tarpaulins?
Tarpaulins are usually made from heavy-duty materials like polyethylene or canvas.
Is there a difference in the cost between tarpaulin and tarp?
Generally, tarpaulins, being more heavy-duty, might be more expensive than lighter tarps.
How do I secure a tarp?
Tarps can be secured using ropes or bungee cords through the grommets provided at the edges.
Can I use a tarp for industrial applications?
While possible, tarpaulins are recommended for industrial applications due to their durability and specialized features like reinforced edges.
What are common uses of tarpaulins?
Common uses include covering vehicles, as shelter material in construction, and for outdoor storage protection.
Are tarpaulins waterproof?
Yes, tarpaulins are designed to be waterproof and protect against various elements.
Can I repair a torn tarp?
Yes, tarps can be repaired with patches or special tape designed for this purpose.
Can a tarp be used for long-term protection?
Yes, though tarps are more often associated with temporary solutions, they can be used for long-term protection if made from suitable materials.
Is a tarpaulin suitable for military use?
Yes, tarpaulins are often used in military contexts for their robustness and protective qualities.
How do I choose between a tarpaulin and a tarp?
The choice depends on the required durability, intended use, and whether the application is temporary or long-term.
Do all tarps have grommets?
Not all, but many tarps come equipped with grommets for easier securing.
What maintenance does a tarpaulin require?
Tarpaulins require minimal maintenance but should be cleaned regularly and stored dry to prevent mildew and prolong their life.
Can tarps be recycled?
It depends on the material, but many polyethylene tarps are recyclable.
What is the typical size range for tarps?
Tarps come in various sizes, from small enough to cover a bicycle to large enough to cover a baseball infield.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
