Temporary Enclosure Ideas Using Tarpaulins

A tarpaulin, commonly referred to as a tarp, is a large, durable sheet made of water-resistant materials such as polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Tarps are lightweight yet sturdy enough to provide shelter from rain, snow, and sunlight. These properties make tarpaulins an ideal material for constructing temporary enclosures.

Temporary Shelter Ideas Using Tarpaulins

There are many creative ways to construct temporary shelters using tarpaulins. Some common designs include:

Covered Seating Area

For outdoor gatherings like picnics or camping, erect four poles in a square or rectangle and drape a Clear Tarpaulin over the tops to create a covered seating zone. Bungee cords or ropes can help hold the tarp taught.

Simple Camping Tent

Stake down four corners of a Tarpaulin on level ground and use rope or bungees to create shelter walls that stand up from the ground. For extra headroom, hang a tarp from tree branches above.

Outdoor Storage Shelter

Assemble a freestanding wood or metal frame structure and tightly wrap the exterior with tarpaulin siding for waterproof storage space. Include windows, doors, and a sloped roof.

Garden Shed

Construct low walls out of wood boards, then wrap the exterior in a heavy-duty tarp and secure a tarp roof. Use sandbags along the roof edges.

Temporary Carport

Erect poles in a carport formation and secure tarps to the tops and sides to shelter vehicles from the weather temporarily. Reinforce corners.

Playhouse or Clubhouse

Build an open-air play structure and wrap it securely with tarps above and around for a temporary enclosure. Decorate the exterior for fun.

Garden and Yard Enclosures with Tarpaulins

Tarps work well for protecting garden areas and outdoor spaces on a temporary or semi-permanent basis:

Cold Frame

A cold frame is a bottomless wooden box or ledger with a sloped glass or tarpaulin lid that helps seedlings withstand colder temperatures. The lid traps heat to extend the growing season.

Hoop House

Semi-circular or half-round arched frames made of PVC or wood support one or multiple tarpaulin layers to create a basic greenhouse structure.

Raised Garden Bed

Borders of lumber, stone, or brick surrounded by tucked-in tarpaulin walls help control weeds and retain moisture in elevated garden plots.

Compost Bin

An open-top wood pallet enclosure wrapped in a sturdy tarp contains ingredients while allowing airflow. Cut doors for turning.

Tool Shed

An inexpensive freestanding or lean-to kit sheds stormproof tarpaulin siding and roof to keep gear safe outdoors.

DIY Tips for Installing Temporary Tarpaulin Enclosures

Proper planning and installation techniques ensure temporary tarpaulin enclosures stand up to weather and use. Here are some tips:

Choose the Right Tarp

Heavier 12-16 oz tarps withstand wind and rain better than lightweight 6-8 oz. options. Measure your space for correct sizing.

Attach to Poles or Posts

Use grommets or rope loops sewn into Tarpaulins to hang from poles at proper tension. For open areas, hammer tall posts into the ground every 10-15 feet.

Secure Edges

Sandbags along the bottom hem or rope tied every 3 feet along the edge keep tarps anchored in place. Consider bungee cords if the edges flap.

Create Openings

Cut doors and vents into tarps as needed, then reinforce openings with extra poles or ropes to frame. Use tarps as flaps or secure them with velcro, snaps, or buttons.