Bungies vs Rope for securing tarps?

I use both bungies and shock cord. Just started using the cord this year, the more I use it the more I like it. Also carry rope

 

My question is, do you lay out a long length then just pull it through the D-rings/grommets and then just pull it out to go over those hooks or something else? What knots do you use to get it tight?

 

I always used a bungee on the end to keep tension on the rope after I took the slack out of the sides.

 

It’s fastest if you just leave the rope threaded through the d rings when you roll up the tarp. Then you tie on end off and hook and stretch as you go down the trailer. I use the simplest knots. They hold and untie well with bungee rope.

 

COTC had some good vids on YT about using shock cord. Nice if you have rope hooks on the trailer.

 

You can also use J hooks on shock cord instead of tying knots at the end.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BGWN800/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Those COTC videos are pretty good. One of their drivers was extremely helpful to us before we made the transition to flatbed.

 

Keep in mind with COTC videos that I believe they try to fold the tarp halfway down the rub rail because there is a rubber seal on their trailers to keep wind and water going up between the stake pockets.

I try to keep the tarp inside the tub rail on the deck to keep air from rushing in. Also I don’t know the thickness of their shock cord but the 3/8 I linked I use 30 ft section for a 26ft long tarp. It works for me. If the D ring row is low to the rail I can do 1.5x tarp length. If it’s way up I can do all but maybe 1 D ring. I also end the shock cord with a zip tie instead of a fancy knot because I’m stupid. Also burning the ends of the shock cord works great.

 

Here’s an example. It’s a bad one because I was tarping a seriously messed up load. Usually use bungees on the front and back and shock cord everywhere else.

 

Good quality bungee cords make a big difference...…..stretch
much better and stay tight...….especially in the cold. Same with
chains and binders......I am in favor of saving money but tiedowns
and tarps are not the place to start. Also pinching the hook shut on
bungee cords is worth your time...….