Fabric Canopy

Fabric Canopy

Shopping For A Canopy Replacement Tarp

Finding the correct replacement cover for your canopy can be a daunting task. Many people purchase canopy sets that are on sale at local hardware stores but are unaware that normal replacement parts cannot be purchased at the same location. This is usually the time that you start an Internet search for replacement covers. Before you start your search there are a few important details concerning your canopy that must be taken into account.

 

The first thing to do before purchasing your replacement canopy cover is to measure your carport frame. You want to measure the length, width and height from the ground to the highest center point. These three dimensions will give you a good idea as to what size cover is needed for replacement. Measuring from the ground to the highest center point will provide you with your canopy frames peak roof shape. These shapes can either be a low peak, medium peak or high peak style. Although the high peak style is the most common, it is still some good information to have when shopping for replacement covers.

 

Once the canopy frame has been measured you can begin searching the Internet for canopy replacement covers or carport covers. The most important thing to know when shopping for a cover is that the actual replacement tarp that will be used on your frame must be two feet larger than the width of your frame. This rule applies for high peak frames but if you purchased your canopy as a kit from a store then there is a high likelihood that the frame features a high angled peak. The two extra feet of fabric is needed to compensate for the high angled pitch and is an important factor to consider when shopping for a canopy replacement cover.

 

There are a vast variety of replacement tarps available online and choosing a cover that accommodates your particular application is important. Some of the different tarps available include valance style, traditional style and mesh shade fabric. The valance tarp is the most common replacement cover and is what is usually included in store bought canopy kits. The valance style features an eight-inch overhang around the edge and works to prevent water from coming back into the frame. This particular style is multi functional for the fact that the valance overhang will accommodate future purchases of side panels and front and back doors. The additional canopy enclosure panels are designed to tuck under the valance edge to provide a watertight portable garage shelter.

 

The traditional and mesh shade fabrics are different from the valance style due to the fact that they do not include extra fabric for an overhang. The traditional canopy replacement covers fit to the edge of the frame and after installation will have a two to three inch gap between the frame and the edge of the tarp. The mesh tarp covers fit on the edge of the frame just as the traditional cover does but are comprised of different materials. The valance and traditional replacement covers are manufactured using polyethylene material and are then laminated. The lamination process ensures that the end product will be a lightweight and durable waterproof cover. Although the mesh shade fabric is extremely durable in and of it's self, the fabric is comprised of woven mesh and is not waterproof. The screen mesh replacement tarps are designed to provide adequate shade and UV protection while allowing wind and precipitation to pass through. The mesh shade cover is a great choice for summer months and is the perfect product for garden nurseries.

 

There are many canopy replacement products available online and it is important to have a solid understanding of your canopy frame before shopping and making a purchase. Prior to browsing the search engines, be sure that you have accurate measurements and also that you have considered what type of tarp will work best for your needs. Most companies have customer support available and will be happy to answer any questions you may have. If you are unsure about a product or size it is best to ask a representative.

About the Author

Mroberts is a freelance writer for www.CanopiesAndTarps.com. where you can find a great selection of tarps, canopies, canopy tents and party tents at affordable prices.

Is there a fabric spray that can block UV?

I have a fabric popup canopy that I want to make sure blocks UV rays

Yes. Offhand, Krylon, Granger's and Nikwax all make them. I've seen them for sale at outdoor retailers (usually near tent or marine supplies) and occasionally at fabric stores near the upholstery fabrics. Your local home improvement store may carry them too.

Krylon Outdoor Spaces UV Fabric Protector: http://www.krylon.com/main/product_template.cfm?levelid=5&sub_levelid=8&productid=1870&content=product_details

Granger's Spray-On UV Waterproofing: http://www.grangersusa.com/products/spray-on-uv-waterproofing.html

Nikwax UV Proof:

http://www.nikwax.com/en-gb/products/productdetail.php?productid=59&activityid=-1&itemid=-1&fabricid=-1

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