Need advice quickly one trailer purchase

[Gary Fowler]

Canvas tarps will last about a year before they start ripping and tearing. The nylon or plastic ones deteriate from sunlight is about the same amount of time and start coming apart regardless of the wind conditions. I've used lots of stuff on 40 year of construction jobs making temporary shelters and I know what I am talking about. I've seen my share to them blown away during storm that were anchored pretty darn well with rebar hooks driven in the ground 2 feet or more. All you have left is a frame the next day. Black poly 3mils or thicker last longer but doesnt breath at all so it traps all kind of moisture underneath it if you dont raise it up with a frame like a tent to allow air circulation you get permanent moisture under it.
Maybe the cheapest is just to keep a good waterproof coating on it and let it set in the open weather. A couple gallons of Thompsons water seal every couple of years would seem to do the trick. Used motor oil works too, but sure is messy on the clothes when you have to get on it for tie down etc, not to mention darned slick when raining.

 

[jeffsw6]

I would rather wear out a few tarps than replace the deck more often. Just my $0.02.