How To Choose PVC Tarpaulin For Truck Side Curtain?
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) tarpaulin materials used for truck side curtains serve two essential functions by safeguarding transported goods and maintaining privacy. Truck operators need to select the appropriate heavy-duty PVC tarpaulin when transporting goods across long distances through different weather conditions.
This detailed guide provides you with the necessary information to choose the best PVC tarpaulin material for your truck fleet's side curtain applications. We cover the key properties, types, fitting measurements and maintenance needs when buying PVC tarps. Follow our tips to invest in quality truck side curtains that deliver maximum durability per dollar spent.
What is PVC Tarpaulin?
PVC tarpaulin fabric represents a synthetic plastic material which results from coating or dipping polyester or other fabrics with plastisol polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The liquid PVC mixture solidifies while binding to the base fabric material thus creating an impermeable flexible weather-resistant sheet.
▶Key Properties
- Waterproof: PVC coating prevents water seepage, unlike porous fabrics. This makes PVC coated tarpaulin ideal covers to keep cargo dry.
- UV-resistant: PVC material is treated to withstand damage from sunlight and ultraviolet rays over months of outdoor use.
- Strong and durable: Properly formulated PVC tarps lasts for years without significant wear or breakage issues.
- Flexible: Tarps can fold up for easy storage and unroll to cover truck sides as needed.
Key Factors in Selecting PVC Tarpaulin
Consider the following crucial performance parameters and requirements when choosing PVC truck tarpaulin:
◆Durability and Strength
Select tarps that demonstrate superior tensile strength and resistance to tear propagation to prevent small tears from spreading. Heavy-grade PVC material demonstrates superior durability for handling and friction during thousands of miles of road use.
◆Weather Resistance
The tarp must withstand wind, rainfall and other weather extremes like intense heat, cold and humidity. Ensure the PVC material has stabilizers to prevent degradation from sunlight, rain, snow and temperature swings across operating geographies.
◆Ease of Handling
Look for lightweight tarps around 20 to 30 oz/sq. yard for easy lifting, unrolling and fastening by a single person. The material should be flexible enough to coil up and unfurl from the truck countless times without cracking or getting stiff.
◆Customization Options
Get tarps tailor-made to your desired dimensions with grommets, hooks and custom printing if required. Choose from solid colors or transparent tarps depending on privacy needs and branding preferences. Match the size exactly to your truck model for perfect coverage and secure fastening.
◆Cost and Value
Balance durability and custom features with budget constraints. Prioritize quality over lowest initial cost to maximize lifespan and prevent frequent replacements. Consider total cost of ownership over the long run.
◆Environmental Impact
Opt for phthalate-free, lead-free PVC tarpaulin made from recyclable materials wherever possible. Choose manufacturers compliant with REACH and other ecological standards relevant for your operating region.
Different Types of PVC Tarpaulin for Truck Side Curtains
PVC tarps for trucking applications are available in different grades, weights and specialized variants:
✔Thickness and Weight
- Lightweight (12 to 18 oz/sq. yard): Temporary curtains, fair weather transportation
- Medium-weight (20 to 28 oz/sq. yard): All-season cargo protection for closed trucks
- Heavy-duty (over 30 oz/sq. yard): Extreme weather and abrasion resistance for dump trucks
Heavier PVC material generally indicates higher durability but also reduced ease of handling. Pick an appropriate thickness as per your specific heavy-duty application and load capacity.
✔Reinforced Tarpaulin
Opt for reinforced PVC truck tarps woven with an extra layer of polyester or a mesh insert for added tear strength and puncture resistance. These withstand rougher loading/unloading and sharp debris better.
✔Fire-Retardant Options
Fire-resistant truck tarps treated with flame-retardant chemicals are mandatory for applications like:
- Transporting flammable materials (coal, oil etc.)
- Operating near hot work (welding, torch cutting etc.) sites
Check regional regulations to see if fire-retardant side curtains are needed before ordering plain PVC tarps.
✔Specialized Variants
- Anti-static tarps: Prevent static discharge when carrying electronics or explosive materials
- Anti-microbial tarps: Inhibit mold, algae and bacterial growth in damp environments
Measuring and Fitting Your Truck Side Curtain
Taking accurate measurements is vital for proper coverage and secure installation:
◇Use a long tape to measure the exact height and width of the side opening. Include any extensions or overlaps needed.
◇Account for additional coverage to protect cargo at the front and rear ends.
◇Make note of potential obstruction points like handles, lights or ridges along the sides.
◇Decide on the fastening mechanism – buckles, Velcro, hooks etc. based on ease of attaching and removing the curtains.
Having another person double-check measurements helps minimize costly ordering errors. Consider getting professional help for the first-time installation to ensure optimal fitting.
Maintenance and Care for PVC Tarp Truck Side Curtains
Follow these best practices to improve lifespan and performance of your PVC truck tarps:
- Clean off dirt or grime regularly with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals.
- Inspect often for holes, tears or signs of premature aging. Repair promptly to avoid worsening damage.
- Let tarps dry thoroughly before rolling up for storage to prevent mold or mildew.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use.
- Watch out for thinning fabric, UV damage and replace tarps once every 2-3 years depending on wear.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
▽Assuming lightweight PVC will suffice for heavy-duty transportation needs
▽Notchecking local temperatures, precipitation and road conditions
▽Providing incorrect dimensions resulting in loose fit and safety issues
▽Neglecting damage repair and maintenance until major failure occurs
Checklist for Choosing PVC Tarpaulin
Use this checklist while procuring PVC tarps for truck side curtains:
- Confirm dimensions (height, width) required
- Evaluate typical operating conditions (weather, geography etc.)
- Identify special features needed (fire-retardant, reinforced etc.)
- Set budget constraints for cost per square foot/meter
- Research supplier reputation and customer reviews
- Account for proper installation and periodic maintenance
Conclusion
Your decision to select PVC tarpaulin truck side curtains requires evaluation of durability alongside weather resistance and handling ease and customization options and cost-effectiveness for your specific operating conditions. This guide will help you select the right PVC tarpaulin truck side curtains for new purchases or replacements.
We encourage connecting with reputable manufacturers to procure custom PVC tarps purpose-built for your truck fleet specifications. Investing in quality tarping now delivers significant savings over time while ensuring cargo protection and driver safety regardless of the conditions.
