The primary protection against the elements of your cargo is a rollover tarp. It helps to secure your cargo from rain, harsh sun, and road debris. These tarps are designed to be durable, but they don’t last forever. Over time, they are subjected to wear and tear.
Ignoring the signs of a deteriorated tarp may result in spoiled goods and even safety risks on the highway. It is important to know when to change it to ensure your bottom line is safe and maintain the efficiency of your operations. Here are some of the top signs that indicate you need rollover replacement tarps.
Fabric Tears and Gaps
Visible damage is one of the most evident indicators of a failing tarp. Scratches and tiny holes may not appear to be significant, but they are the points where moisture, dust, and dirt can enter. On the open road, a little tear may be blown into a big, gaping hole, leaving all your load on the road. Besides, the fabric is also degradable. When you see that it is thin or worn in some places, this means it has lost its structural integrity. If you are looking for reliable rollover replacement tarps for sale, you can look for them in a local market and online.
Leakage of Water
Quality rollover tarps are made waterproof, which creates a tight seal to keep your cargo dry. However, the waterproof coating is protective but disintegrates with continuous exposure to the sun, rain, and temperature variations.
After a storm, you may find a few drips in your trailer. Moisture may destroy a very broad variety of items, from spoiling food products to promoting rust on metal parts.
Corroded Hardware
A rollover tarp system is more than just the fabric. It has a network of hardware that includes bindings, rails, springs, and hooks. Inspect all metal and mechanical components regularly. Look for signs of rust on bows, frayed straps, or bent rails.
Compromised hardware not only makes the driver’s job harder but also poses a serious safety risk. An improperly secured tarp can come loose during transit, endangering other drivers and your load.
UV Damage and Faded Colors
The vibrant color of a new tarp is an indicator of its health. Continuous exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun breaks down the fibers in the tarp fabric. One of the first signs of this UV damage is significant color fading.
A faded tarp is more likely to tear and has lost much of its original strength and resistance. Faded color is a warning sign that the material’s protective qualities are rapidly diminishing.
Difficulty in Rolling the Tarp
One of the best things about a rollover system is its convenience, where a driver can cover and uncover a load within a short time and with minimal effort. When the simple task turns out to be an everyday challenge, it’s a clear sign that something is wrong.
The tarp material may harden over time due to exposure, thus becoming hard to roll and fold. This not only wastes time during loading and unloading, but also increases driver frustration and the possibility of injury due to struggling with a tarp.
