Effectively tarping a trailer protects your valuable asset from the elements, keeping it clean and well-maintained. This guide outlines a straightforward method based on proven techniques, ensuring your trailer stays covered and secure.
Protecting your trailer with a durable tarp shields it from rain, snow, UV rays, dirt, and debris. This is especially important for trailers stored outdoors, helping to prevent rust, fading, and general wear and tear over time.
Step-by-Step Guide to Tarping Your Trailer
Covering a large trailer, like an RV or a utility trailer, requires a systematic approach. Here are the essential steps to follow for a successful tarp installation, incorporating the core actions from the reference:
- Prepare the Tarp: Lay your tarp out flat. Fold the sides of the tarp to match the width of your trailer. This pre-folding makes handling the large tarp much easier when getting it onto the roof.
- Attach Pull Ropes: Tie a rope to some end grommets on the tarp. These will be used to pull the tarp over the trailer. You can also optionally tie ropes to side grommets if your tarp is very wide or the trailer is particularly tall, providing extra control.
- Roll Up the Tarp: Once folded, roll up the tarp tightly from the end opposite the ropes you just attached. A tightly rolled tarp is less cumbersome to lift and manage.
- Position the Tarp: Carefully lift the rolled tarp onto the back of your RV (or trailer). Position it centered from side to side, ready to be rolled forward.
- Roll Out the Tarp: Using the ropes tied in Step 2, begin to roll out the tarp from the back towards the front of the trailer. Have someone at the front gently pull the ropes while another person guides the tarp from the back if possible.
- Unfold the Tarp: Once the tarp is rolled out over the length of the trailer roof, unfold the tarp down the sides. Carefully pull the folded sides outwards until the tarp drapes fully over the trailer.
Securing Your Tarp for Long-Term Protection
Getting the tarp onto the trailer is the first phase. The next crucial step is securing it properly against wind and weather.
Essential Securing Techniques
- Tie-Downs: Use ropes, bungee cords, or specialized tarp straps to secure the grommets along the bottom edge of the tarp to the trailer's frame, wheels, or dedicated tie-down points. Ensure even tension to prevent flapping.
- Ball Bungees: These are great for securing tarp grommets to rails or other anchor points quickly and easily.
- Rope Method: A classic method involves running a single rope back and forth over the tarp, securing it at the bottom on alternating sides. This creates a 'web' that holds the tarp down.
- Consider Wind: Always anticipate wind. Secure the tarp tightly, paying extra attention to edges and corners where wind can catch. Loose tarps can flap, causing damage to both the tarp and the trailer.
Choosing the Right Tarp
Selecting the appropriate tarp is key to longevity and effectiveness:
- Material: Heavy-duty polyethylene or vinyl tarps are common. Look for UV resistance if the trailer is stored in sunlight.
- Size: Ensure the tarp is large enough to cover the entire trailer, including the sides, with enough material to reach below the frame for secure tie-down. Measure the length, width, and height and add extra for overhang.
- Grommets: Check that the tarp has sturdy grommets spaced appropriately for secure tie-down.
By following these steps and securing your tarp correctly, you can ensure your trailer is well-protected throughout the seasons.
