What are silver and black tarps used for?

Silver and black tarps are versatile heavy-duty covers commonly used for construction site protection, outdoor storage, roofing repairs, and blocking sunlight or prying eyes. The silver side reflects heat and UV rays while the black side absorbs light and provides excellent privacy — making them a popular choice for a wide range of applications. For a deeper look at specific use cases, check out our guide on Best Uses for Black Tarps.

Why do tarps have a silver side and a black side?

The two-tone design of silver and black tarps serves a dual purpose: the silver (reflective) side faces outward to deflect sunlight and reduce heat buildup underneath, while the black side absorbs light to block visibility and prevent UV penetration from below. This construction makes them especially effective for covering vehicles, equipment, and materials that need protection from both sun and weather. If you need dedicated vehicle shelter, you might also consider a Portable Garage or Carport for more permanent protection.

How do I know which side of a silver and black tarp should face up?

For most outdoor applications, you should place the silver (shiny) side facing up so it reflects sunlight and heat away from whatever you are covering. The black side faces down to block light from filtering through and to add an extra layer of opacity. If your primary goal is privacy or weed suppression on the ground, you can reverse the orientation so the black side faces up.

Can I use a silver and black tarp for shade or sun protection?

Silver and black tarps do offer some shade and UV protection, but they are solid tarps that block airflow entirely, which can trap heat underneath in warm weather. If breathability matters for your application — such as covering a patio, garden, or seating area — you may want to consider Mesh Sun Shade Tarps instead, which allow air circulation while still filtering sunlight. For overhead shade structures, a pop-up canopy tent can also be a great option.

Do silver and black tarps work for covering a car or truck long-term?

Yes, silver and black poly tarps can protect a vehicle from rain, UV rays, bird droppings, and debris, making them a practical short-term or budget-friendly solution. However, for long-term or repeated vehicle storage, a more durable and purpose-built option like a Portable Car Garage or Carport or a Heavy-Duty Metal Carport will provide better protection and longevity without the risk of wind displacement or abrasion.

Silver / Black Tarps - Heavy Duty Tarps

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Silver / Black Tarp 06' x 08'
06 x 08 Silver/Black heavy-duty tarps- 14X14 Mesh Count, 12 Mil Thickness, 7 Oz. per square yard, brass grommets every 24 inches with rope reinforced corners and eyelets. All fabric is constructed of triple layer rip stop polyethylene. UV stabilized...

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Was: $27.60

Now: $16.25
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Silver / Black Tarp 10' x 12'
10 x 12 Silver/Black heavy-duty tarps- 14X14 Mesh Count, 12 Mil Thickness, 7 Oz. per square yard, brass grommets every 24 inches with rope reinforced corners and eyelets. All fabric is constructed of triple layer rip stop polyethylene. UV stabilized...

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Was: $69.00

Now: $40.62
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Silver / Black Tarp 10' x 20'
10 x 20 Silver/Black heavy-duty tarps- 14X14 Mesh Count, 12 Mil Thickness, 7 Oz. per square yard, brass grommets every 24 inches with rope reinforced corners and eyelets. All fabric is constructed of triple layer rip stop polyethylene. UV stabilized...

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Was: $115.00

Now: $67.70
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Silver / Black Tarp 100' x 100'
A silver and black double-sided tarp from Canopies and Tarps gives you options based on your environment. When a tool can accomplish multiple jobs, it becomes even more valuable. Many people choose tarp colors based on their needs - perhaps a bright,...

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Was: $5,750.14

Now: $3,385.11
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Silver / Black Tarp 12' x 20'
12 x 20 Silver/Black heavy-duty tarps- 14X14 Mesh Count, 12 Mil Thickness, 7 Oz. per square yard, brass grommets every 24 inches with rope reinforced corners and eyelets. All fabric is constructed of triple layer rip stop polyethylene. UV stabilized...

MSRP:

Was: $138.00

Now: $81.24
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Silver / Black Tarp 12' x 24'
12 x 24 Silver/Black heavy-duty tarps- 14X14 Mesh Count, 12 Mil Thickness, 7 Oz. per square yard, brass grommets every 24 inches with rope reinforced corners and eyelets. All fabric is constructed of triple layer rip stop polyethylene. UV stabilized...

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Was: $165.60

Now: $97.49
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Silver / Black Tarp 16' x 20'
16 x 20 Silver/Black heavy-duty tarps- 14X14 Mesh Count, 12 Mil Thickness, 7 Oz. per square yard, brass grommets every 24 inches with rope reinforced corners and eyelets. All fabric is constructed of triple layer rip stop polyethylene. UV stabilized...

MSRP:

Was: $184.00

Now: $108.32
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Silver / Black Tarp 20' x 20'
20 x 20 Silver/Black heavy-duty tarps- 14X14 Mesh Count, 12 Mil Thickness, 7 Oz. per square yard, brass grommets every 24 inches with rope reinforced corners and eyelets. All fabric is constructed of triple layer rip stop polyethylene. UV stabilized...

MSRP:

Was: $230.00

Now: $135.40
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Silver / Black Tarp 20' x 30'
20 x 30 Silver/Black heavy-duty tarps- 14X14 Mesh Count, 12 Mil Thickness, 7 Oz. per square yard, brass grommets every 24 inches with rope reinforced corners and eyelets. All fabric is constructed of triple layer rip stop polyethylene. UV stabilized...

MSRP:

Was: $345.00

Now: $203.10
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Silver / Black Tarp 30' x 30'
30 x 30 Silver/Black heavy-duty tarps- 14X14 Mesh Count, 12 Mil Thickness, 7 Oz. per square yard, brass grommets every 24 inches with rope reinforced corners and eyelets. All fabric is constructed of triple layer rip stop polyethylene. UV stabilized...

MSRP:

Was: $517.52

Now: $304.66
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Silver / Black Tarp 40' x 40'
40 x 40 Silver/Black heavy-duty tarps- 14X14 Mesh Count, 12 Mil Thickness, 7 Oz. per square yard, brass grommets every 24 inches with rope reinforced corners and eyelets. All fabric is constructed of triple layer rip stop polyethylene. UV stabilized...

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Was: $920.00

Now: $541.60
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Silver / Black Tarp 50' x 50'
Choose your perfect side with a silver and black heavy-duty tarp from Canopies and Tarps. This 50' x 50' heavy-duty tarp features two differently colored sides you can use based on your needs - reflect more light with the silver side, or absorb it with...

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Was: $1,437.54

Now: $846.28
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