How to Reinforce the Edges of a Waterproof Tarpaulin Cover

Tarps are important in that they offer a form of shelter and can be rolled or folded when not in use. However, they have sharp edges that make them vulnerable to rips or holes in the course of their use. Strengthening the edges will increase the durability of your Tarpaulin Sheet thus making it last longer. This is a basic guide to several methods that you can use to reinforce the edges of a tarp using household items.

Assess the Damage

First, about preparing the tarp, unfold it and check seams and edges for any damages. Search for areas that already show signs of wear, such as tears, openings, or strain in the material. It is important to pay attention to the corners of the structure since they are most stressed during construction. Decide on the length of the edge that will require reinforcement. If the damage is extensive you may have to use filler first before using the reinforcing bars.

Clean the Edges

Clean all the edges that are expected to be reinforced with a damp cloth so that you can remove any dirt and debris that may be found there. Allow the edges to dry before attempting to go to the next level of cooking. This way the edges will be clean and the reinforcement will stick properly.

Simple Stitching

Stitching is one of the simplest ways to reinforce the edges of a material or fabric. Make cuts of strong thread or any average selling string. Sew through the hole and tie the other end of the thread. Sew by overlapping the pieces in a zigzag manner ensuring that the stitches are tight and are made in proximity to one another. That results in the new seams’ formation, which means no previous seam can further split or come apart. Concentrate the stitches where there is a breakage in the seams or where there is frequent wear and tear.

Duct Tape Binds

For a simpler and temporary solution, the use of duct tape is advisable. Thicknesses that protrude at least 0.25 inch beyond the edge. Place the strips end to end and ensure that they are lying flat on the edge with each strip slightly overlapping the next. Turn over the edge and apply pressure on it. You can also use heat to make the tape stick to the surface well as you can take the tape and warm it using a hair dryer. The tape is easily replaceable once it is worn out or frayed.

Sealing With Hot Glue

Hot glue again offers a sealed waterproofing reinforcement. Draw lines .5 inches from the top, bottom, left, and right to help guide the placement of glue. Now use a hot glue gun and carefully trace over these lines that you had drawn earlier. Spread the glue evenly so that it forms narrow strips, right at the borders. The hot glue cools and sets to a rigid plastic material Adding hot glue to the mix ensures that the final joining will remain intact. It is recommended to re-apply it once it starts cracking or peeling.

With this fold-over hem use an iron-on adhesive to fix the edges.

For an almost unnoticed approach, turn back the hem and iron them. When you are done washing, fold the edge to ½ inch and iron. Open up the fold and apply iron-on adhesive inside it as shown below. Then again, fold that edge and press it down. Turn the iron on and set it on medium to ensure you can seal the full edge of the garment. Do not adjust the position of the Canvas Tarpaulin until the adhesive hardens up. The inner fold also serves as a fold that would stop the material from fraying more than it already has.

Webbed Edging

Ideal self-adhesive repair tape develops webbed edging when used appropriately. Take and cut strips of the tape, which would be longer than the edges of the tarp. Position them and remove the backing as you place them, ensuring that they are pressed firmly against the edge. Second, pull the opposite adhesive side up in .25-inch increments, stretching and webbing the tape, and then adhere to the opposite side as well. The webbed pattern further strengthens the whole edge.

Leather Edge Binding

Cut thin leather, or small strips from leather, to match each edge. Secure and support or place it with pins along the edges or middle. With waxed thread in the thick needle blanket-stitch both sides of the leather. Ensure that stitches are tight, smooth, and equal in size and length. The leather covers and preserves the original edge of the book, while the stitching contributes to the book’s aesthetics. Leather does not wear easily if it is well taken care of.

Conclusion

Sealing open ends of loosely laid tarp helps to lengthen its effectiveness. Experiment with the process in terms of material used on the tarp, cost, time, and the need it will serve. Hand sewing with just a needle is a simple technique that is effective in increasing the strength of the fabric instantly. Hot glue and repair tape are more effective in providing a better outcome. For almost seamless reinforcement, use fold-over iron-on adhesive or edge binding methods. Reinforcing the edges of your tarp means it is more capable of handling constant usage and the test of time.

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