How to Prevent Clear Tarpaulin from Yellowing
Incredibly clear, tarpaulins can be used to shield an item from rain, dust, and sunlight. Over time, however, people realize that what used to be Clear Tarpaulin turns yellow. This does not only look unsightly, but it tends to weaken the material too. The good thing is that you can take measures to prevent or slow this yellowing process.
Why Does Clear Tarpaulin Turn Yellow?
Learning how to avoid yellowing would be better to understand why it takes place. The main causes of yellowing of a clear tarpaulin include:
- Exposure to UV Rays: The sunlight has ultraviolet or UV rays, which degrade the plastic material with time and make it discolored.
- Oxidation: Long exposure of plastic to air reacts with incoming oxygen reaction and thus causes yellowing.
- Chemical Reactions: Deterioration in coloration may also be brought about by effect of aggressive cleaning agents, pollutants, or even storing close certain chemicals.
- Low-Quality Materials: Cheap tarps are likely to yellow very fast because they do not have UV stabilizers or other protective additives.
Go for a High-Quality Clear Tarpaulin
The only best way of getting clear of yellowing is when one buys high-quality tarpaulin on the onset. Here are the tarps most popularly qualified as:
- UV-Resistant: These are treated with specialized coatings that block harmful UV rays from damaging their surface.
- Polyethylene with stabilizers: High-grade polyethylene lasts longer and resists yellowing better than cheaper plastics.
- Reinforced edges: Strong material is less likely to break-down very fast.
Limit Sun Exposure
UV rays are the most responsible for yellowing; therefore, keep them as low as possible to keep the tarpaulin clear. Here is how to do it:
- Use the tarp when it is needed: Long-term coverings should be built to store materials in some shaded areas.
- Rotate the tarp: Whenever one side is directly exposed to sunlight, flip or alternate sides so that all areas suffer wear and tear from the elements equally.
- Use shade structures: If possible, put the Tarpaulin Sheet under something like an awning or tree branch to block out completely the direct rays of the sun.
Keeping the Tarpaulin Clean
Pollution, dirt, and dust have a promoting effect on yellowing. Cleaning the tarp helps get rid of such substances. It is done by:
- Use water to rinse off: Rinse off with a hose to remove major loose dirt before scrubbing.
- Use mild soap: refrain from using strong detergent, a gentle soap, and water mix is the best.
- Scrub carefully: Use a really soft brush or sponge to prevent scratching the surface.
- Wash thoroughly: Rinse any residue from the cleaners since it also attracts dirt.
- Dry it properly: Ensure that it dries completely before storage so that you can avoid any further chances of mold or mildew.
Store Tarpaulin Right
Proper storage of your tarp when it is not in use noticeably extends its life. These are some storage tips:
- Keep it dry: Moisture leads to mold build-up and material weakening.
- Fold it right: Do not crumple your tarp, since creases will become weak spots.
- Store in a temperature: Heat can wreak havoc on Without its use, a tarp should rest in a storage bin or closet.
- Avoid sharp implements: Ensure the tarp does not come in contact with tools or rough surfaces that could puncture it.
Apply UV Protectant Spray
Some products add another layer of UV protection for plastic materials. A spray formulated for UV protection can block harmful rays and inhibit yellowing. Please follow the manufacturer's application instructions for best results.
Inspect and Maintain Regularly
From time to time inspect your tarp for faded areas, small holes or even tears. Correct minor deterioration to prevent further damage. If your tarp has already started turning yellow, cleaning it and applying UV protection may help.
Replace When Necessary
No matter how we care for our tarps, all will ultimately reach failure. So, if your clear tarpaulin becomes heavily yellow, brittle, or torn, attend to the replacement. Continuing to use a damaged tarp would only mean leaks and poor protection.
Final Thoughts
Primarily, it is good care and protection that will prevent clear tarpaulin from becoming yellow. Choose a high-quality tarp, limit its sun exposure, wash it at intervals, and store it correctly. It will still look clear and work well for ages. These steps will keep your tarpaulin in a great state, saving you money and trouble in the long term.
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