| Having a few blue tarps on hand is always | | | | damaged. When applied properly, the polyethylene |
| recommended when a hurricane or tornado is | | | | material should prevent moisture and UV rays from |
| approaching. While some storms tend to be mild and | | | | seeping into the building and mold from forming. |
| will only cause minor damage, others result in roof | | | | Blue tarps, on the other hand, are made from |
| damage or broken windows. Blue tarps, with a few | | | | lightweight polyethylene. This medium-duty material |
| two-by-four boards, a hammer, and nails, can be | | | | has an eight by eight denier count, which, compared |
| used as a patch on any damaged areas. Because the | | | | to heavy-duty materials with a 14 by 14 denier |
| material keeps out various natural elements and | | | | count, won't be weighted down. Unlike canvas tarps, |
| prevents the interior of the building from becoming | | | | which will absorb and possibly become moldy by the |
| damaged, they have become a staple for those who | | | | moisture, the polyethylene keeps out moisture from |
| live in areas that experience hurricanes and | | | | the interior of the building. Essentially, these two |
| tornadoes. But, why blue tarps and not any other | | | | qualities - lightweight and waterproof - allow |
| material? | | | | medium-duty tarps to be an ideal material for |
| When a roof or window needs to be patched after a | | | | temporary patching. Additionally, the thinness of the |
| storm, the material applied in place must be able to | | | | material allows it to be attached to a roof easily and |
| keep out moisture, mold, and UV rays. These three | | | | kept in place for the 90-day time for repairs to be |
| factors can damage the interior of a building and the | | | | made. |
| longer a home is damaged, the more susceptible it is | | | | While other colors are available, blue tarps continue to |
| to these factors. Polyethylene tarps, after being | | | | be the most visible. Other colors can be used in place, |
| treated, keep out all of these elements and prevent | | | | however, just as long as the material is medium-duty |
| the interior of the building or home from becoming | | | | polyethylene. |