Clever Ways to Reuse Old Waterproof Tarpaulins

Strong, durable waterproof tarpaulins are a great resource for many handyman projects. However, as time goes on, they get old, torn, or faded, and many people toss them out. When a tarp reaches the end of its life, it's tempting to just throw it away, but that seems like a waste. Just because a Tarpaulin is not in tip-top shape, it doesn't mean it can't still be used in many ways. With just a little bit of imagination, you can give your old tarps a second life. Here are some good, creative, and practical ways of reusing tarps around your home, garden, and outdoor areas. 

Make Them Work For You In the Garden

Old waterproof tarps work perfectly for many garden-related tasks. Rather than buying new sheets or boards, you can cut them to the size you need. You can lay it down and keep weeds from growing, or use it to cover your soil and potted plants during heavy rains. 

You may also want to lay the tarp on the grassy area when raking leaves or when trimming bushes. When you are done raking, it saves time picking up the leaves because you can drag the tarp with the leaves on it to your compost pile. An old, worn tarp will do just fine in the garden and will save you time and work.

Make DIY Outdoor Covers

Outdoor furniture, grills, or firewood could often use protection from the elements. If you have old tarps lying around, they make for great covers. Even if the tarps have a couple of holes, they will still protect things from dust, dirt, and most of the rain.

All you would need to do is cut the tarps to size and then use some rope or bungee cords to tie them down. If you would like even more coverage, you can even double up two layers. This one little trick will help you extend the life of your outdoor items and cost you nothing.

Use Tarps on Camping Trips

If you are an avid camper, do not throw away your old tarp. It is still good for something. Luckily, you can use it underneath your tent as a groundsheet. This will help keep the bottom of your tent clean and dry, and an old tarp with a few small holes will be perfectly fine for this use.

You might even hang it above your campsite to protect you from the sun while you are camping or an unexpected rain shower! Old tarps are generally light, easy to fold up, and won't take up much space in your camping gear.

Create a Pet Shelter

Do you have any pets that stay outside? Old tarps are a perfect resource to make a simple shelter. You can use poles and a tarp to craft a small covered area for your pet, giving them shade and a place to avoid rain. Even if you already have a pet house, you can cut pieces of tarp to line the roof to help it be more water-resistant. This way, your old tarp can serve a purpose, and your little friend can be more comfortable. 

Make a Backyard Play Space

Kids love it when they can play outside, and old tarps can be used to create a fun space. A Heavy Duty Tarpaulin tied up with ropes and some poles, or maybe just a fence, can be transformed into a fort or small tent for children. It doesn't have to look perfect, because kids get a kick out of having their own adventure or hideout outdoors. 

Another option is to spread out a tarp on the ground as a safe, clean play space for children. It's especially useful in yards that become muddy after rain.

Turn Tarps Into Storage Bags

If you have any experience with scissors and you own a sewing machine, you can also make storage bags from old tarps. They are a sturdy and waterproof material ideal for transporting tools, sports gear, or camping equipment.

Even without sewing, you can make quick storage items by cutting and folding sections of tarp into bundles and tying them with string to store wood or garden supplies, or other things. This is a good way to reduce landfill waste and repurpose the old material.

Use Them for DIY Projects

Old tarps can also help generate your creativity. Numerous individuals cut them into small pieces for craft/DIY projects. You could line shelves, create tool pockets, and even create a simple floor mat.

If you love to paint or do small home projects, an old tarp can act as a drop cloth. It doesn’t really matter what it looks like. It will still protect your house from drops or scratches. 

Final Thoughts

There is no reason why old waterproof Tarpaulins should end up in a landfill. With a bit of creativity, you can repurpose your old tarp in several ways. You can make a gardening tarp, a camping tarp, or pet shelters, or use it for craft projects. There are so many possibilities! Repurposing tarps also saves money and reduces waste, and therefore is more environmentally friendly! The next time you have an old tarp, think carefully about throwing it away. Give it a second life, and benefit from your creativity and resourcefulness.