tarps

I do almost everything with 8' drops. Lots of people say it's a pain using them on shorter loads but I've never minded folding up a couple extra feet of material.

Starting out, especially if you're on a budget, it helps to have versatile equipment. An extra $1000 to buy a second set of tarps would be better spent on other equipment, considering that a set of lumber tarps will cover anything you'll put on the deck. IMO.

 

People seem to like Tarp Stop in Gary IN. I've bought some tie down equipment from them and thought the prices were good and selection was excellent. Haven't used their tarps.

I would NOT recommend TBK tarps in Gary. I have one 16x16 from them and am unimpressed.

Tarp Stop does internet sales.
http://www.tarpstop.com

 

When I started I bought 4 16x24 tarps that way I could cover everything. Need a 4 ft drop, turn them lenght wise. Need a 8ft drop, turn them sideways. Still using them today. Not as handy on the ends as a tarp with flaps but they get the job done.

 

I suggest spending the money up front for one good set of lumber tarps, US made. If you take care of them, you'll be money ahead in the long run. My current set is 10 years old and although they are getting stiffer, they still do the job well.

 

If you can get to Sarasota I got a set of lumber tarps you can have cheap. But be warned, at 220 lbs each they will kick your ###. Last May I decided I'm just to old for that #### and took them off the truck.

 

I have 2 steel tarps 16x25 and love them. I haven't used my 8' lumber tarps in a long while and will probably dump them. I think I'm joining the spyder club.

 

I used my new 30x36 plus 2 30x10's with end flaps

I could use a 36x36 with end flaps but it seems like a pain

 

2 4' tarps, 2 8' tarps, 1 10'*12', 1 old spair for the spots that are going to tear one up no matter how you pad it, squares and strips of outdoor carpet for padding, 8+ plastic corner protectors.