Yes — but through a different mechanism than plastic tarps. Our 18oz and 21oz canvas tarpaulins are wax-treated, which creates a water-resistant barrier that actually improves the more the tarp is rained on. Over time, the natural fibres swell when wet, closing any micro-gaps in the weave and improving the waterproof seal. This means a well-used canvas tarp performs better than a new one — the opposite of plastic, which degrades. In heavy sustained downpours, some water vapour may permeate (by design — canvas breathes), but liquid water runs off the surface. For full waterproofing in extreme conditions, 21oz duck canvas provides the tightest, most water-shedding weave in our range.

Canvas and polyethylene serve different needs. Polyethylene (standard blue/green/silver tarps) is fully waterproof, lightweight, and low cost — ideal for temporary applications, construction site covers, and anywhere budget matters more than longevity. Canvas is heavier, more expensive, and breathable — which makes it the only sensible choice for covering timber (which must season), boats (where hull condensation under plastic causes damage), hay and livestock feed (where sealed covers cause mould), and any application requiring 10–20 year service life. Canvas also biodegrades at end of life, producing no microplastic contamination — increasingly important for farms and marine environments. If you need a cover to last decades and breathe, canvas is the correct specification.

Canvas tarpaulins are remarkably low-maintenance. Do not machine wash — this strips the wax treatment. To clean, brush off loose dirt when dry, then rinse with cold water and a soft brush if needed. Allow to dry fully in the air before folding and storing — never store damp or mildew will develop. If the tarp begins to feel less water-resistant after several years, a fresh coat of canvas wax or beeswax applied with a cloth will restore the surface treatment. Avoid prolonged contact with oil or fuel, which can degrade the natural fibre over time. Stored correctly in a dry, ventilated space, an 18oz canvas tarp will last 10–15 years; 21oz duck canvas 15–20 years.

Yes. We offer 18oz waxed canvas sold by the metre as a roll, which can be cut to your exact specified length for bespoke covering projects, commercial applications, or non-standard dimensions. For standard sizes, our 18oz and 21oz canvas tarps are available in a range of pre-made sizes from our standard product listings. For trade enquiries, bulk orders, or custom specifications (including eyelets at custom spacing), contact our sales team on 01744 520 110 or email sales@tarpaulinsuk.uk — we handle commercial orders and provide trade pricing for regular customers.