Tarpaulin sheets, which are more famously known as tarps, refer to general, all-purpose weatherproof covers that can be used to protect items from rain, sun, or snow, or to act as working covers. Though they are durable they may be made more durable by the inclusion of grommets. Grommets are small round rings, typically of steel or aluminum, which are inserted into the fabric through a hole or sewn on them. Here in this blog, we will discuss how to properly fix the grommets to the Tarpaulin Sheet in the best way possible to make them more durable in the situations they are often subjected to.
Ways of Selecting the Appropriate Tarpaulin Fabric
Before proceeding with the reinforcement of grommets, the proper choice of tarpaulin material is also important. The most common types of tarpaulin are polyethylene, canvas, vinyl, and polyester. Each has its pros and cons for the strength, durability, waterproofing, and weight properties. For example, polyethylene tarpaulin is cheap, portable, and very water-resistant or waterproof. Poly canvas is highly resistant to tears as well as being breathable and durable but it is significantly heavier than vinyl and also tends to shrink or grow mold more easily. Both the vinyl and polyester tarps provide a good weight, tend to last longer, and are both waterproof.
Choosing the right size and kind of grommet
The next step is therefore to consider the appropriate grommets size and the material they are made of for its tarpaulin. The grommets should also have the right size to accommodate the tarpaulin material thickness and should fit properly. For most materials, that is, if the material thickness increases, the grommets needed to cover them will also be larger. The standard sizes measure 3/8 inches, 1/2 inches, 5/8 inches and 3/4 inches for the grommets.
The grommet material also should be carefully chosen because the grommets would have to withstand the conditions it will encounter with the tarp. Out of the two materials of steel and aluminum grommets are those that are frequently used because they are strong and resistant to corrosion. When selecting nail grommets, the weight and usage frequency of the tarp should be strongly evaluated to determine the most appropriate type of grommets in case of stress.
Preparing the Tarpaulin Sheet
A grommet should not be put into a sheet of Canvas Tarpaulin up until a final inspection of the sheet for any holes, tears, or weaknesses of some sort. Once these areas have been nibbled, ensure they are sewn over with a suitable repair kit or with patches. This step will help you make your tarpaulin sheet rugged and long endurable.
Attaching Screws on Tarpaulin Sheets
There are two primary methods for installing grommets on tarpaulin sheets: heat-setting and die-cutting.
Heat-Setting Grommets
Heat-setting grommets are treated using a grommet setting tool and a rawhide or the plastic mallet of a corresponding size. So first, take the grommet and place it on the hole you put in your tarpaulin sheet, exactly on the tarpaulin that you are going to place the ring (circle) you will have to put the ring in, and parallel to the fabric. Next, put the grommet setting tool directly in the middle of the flange, then ensuring the fabric is held firmly in place, strike the tool firmly with the mallet to set the grommet firmly in the fabric.
Die-Cutting Grommets
Die cutting grommets, as mentioned earlier, needs three different things: a grommet die set and a punch or a die cut machine. This method is more appropriate for a large number of installations, and it is applied predominantly in manufacturing industries. First, make sure that grommet positioning is correct, with hole of the grommet in the hole of the product and then put the die set over the grommet. To do this use the punch or the die cut machine to apply pressure on the die set this at once cut the grommet and fix it into the tarpaulin sheet.
Taking care and management of tarpaulin sheets
These should be treasured and well taken care off so that both the tarpaulin sheets and the grommets tend to have high durability. Here are some tips:
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It is recommended that you should always check your tarps for any sign of wear or damage, and if there is get it fixed as soon as possible.
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This product is designed to be kept in a clean and dry place when not in use.
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Do not put too much weight on tarpaulins since this would exert much pressure on the grommets and the grommets may give way or rip off.
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One should wash or at least wash his or her tarps depending on the kind of material and its utilization. For instance, canvas can be washed with mildew after some time and polyethylene even can be washed with plain water.
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Make sure that the tarp is adequately fastened to its support and use a rope or bungee cords to pull back on the grommets thus preventing them from ripping out.
Conclusion
Calking on wire grommets on tarpaulin sheets help in enhancing its durability and performance hence one can depend on it for some time. Following the tips and modern steps described herein, one will be in a position to select the right material of tarpaulin, perfectly select the right size and material of a grommet, prepare the tarp in the right manner and ultimately set the grommets through heat setting or die cutting technique. It’s possible for you to have your reinforced tarps working for you for many years, provided you give them the appropriate maintenance and attention they need.
