There’s a reason tarps are a staple in every garage, backyard shed, and work truck. They’re simple, functional, and they solve everyday problems without complication. For people who want basic, reliable coverage without going overboard, 5 mil tarps land right in the sweet spot. Lightweight but durable enough to handle weather, wear, and weekend projects, this category of tarps is often overlooked in favor of thicker, heavier-duty versions. That’s a mistake.
The 5 Mil Tarp Collection from Brix Tarps brings serious versatility to homeowners, campers, landscapers, and businesses alike. Whether you need to keep firewood dry, shield a pile of mulch, or throw together a quick rain shelter, these tarps are light in hand and strong where it matters.
This guide walks through everything you need to know about 5 mil tarps, with a focus on the Brix Tarps collection. You’ll get a detailed look at features, everyday use cases, comparisons with other grades, and answers to the most frequently searched questions on tarp protection and performance.
What is a 5 Mil Tarp?
The “mil” rating on a tarp refers to its thickness. A single mil equals one-thousandth of an inch. So, a 5 mil tarp is 0.005 inches thick. This might sound thin at first, but don’t let the number fool you. While thicker tarps like 10 mil or 16 mil may be designed for heavy-duty, long-term use, a 5 mil tarp is ideal for lightweight, everyday applications.
What sets 5 mil tarps apart is their balance. They’re thin enough to fold up easily and store in tight spaces but thick enough to protect against rain, sunlight, dust, and mild wind. Whether you’re using them for temporary coverage or regular outdoor tasks, these tarps keep your gear dry and shaded without the weight and stiffness of thicker grades.
If you’ve ever struggled to drag a bulky tarp over a patio set or fumbled with heavy plastic when trying to wrap a woodpile, you’ll appreciate the flexibility of a 5 mil design. They’re light, quick to deploy, and surprisingly strong for their weight.
Key Features of Brix Tarps’ 5 Mil Collection
Every tarp in the Brix Tarps 5 Mil Collection is built with performance in mind. This isn’t just about throwing a sheet of plastic over your stuff. These tarps are engineered with layered polyethylene that’s been tightly woven to resist tearing and stretching. On top of that, both sides are coated with a waterproof layer that helps shed rain and snow while offering solid protection from UV exposure.
You’ll notice metal grommets spaced evenly around each tarp’s perimeter. These are rust-resistant and reinforced with plastic corners to prevent ripping under tension. They’re not going to fail the second you cinch a rope through them or tie them down on a windy day.
The 5 mil collection focuses on standard blue tarps, which isn’t just a classic color choice. Blue is one of the most UV-stable colors for polyethylene, meaning it holds up better under long hours of sunlight. This helps extend the lifespan of the tarp and keeps it looking clean.
Other standout features include:
- Heat-sealed seams for better leak prevention
- Durable corner reinforcements to resist stress tears
- Light enough to be folded and stored in compact toolboxes
- Multiple size options ranging from small covers to full vehicle-length protection
It’s the kind of tarp you can throw in the back of your truck, stash under the deck, or keep next to the garden hose. It’s there when you need it, easy to grab, and ready to go.
Everyday Uses for 5 Mil Tarps
This is where the 5 mil tarp earns its reputation. There are dozens of situations where a heavyweight tarp is overkill. You don’t always need industrial strength. What you need is something affordable, light, and good at getting the job done.
Here are just a few real-world applications where a 5 mil tarp excels:
Backyard protection: Cover your grill, smoker, patio table, or kids’ toys. These tarps make great covers during light rain or overnight dew. They also help prevent sun damage to plastics and fabrics.
Firewood storage: Keep stacked firewood dry through the season. The 5 mil design is light enough to drape over piles without crushing them and tough enough to stay put.
Landscaping help: Use tarps to haul mulch, leaves, or grass clippings. Lay one out under bushes before trimming to catch debris and speed up cleanup.
Camping cover: These tarps make great tent footprints or gear covers. You can string one up with rope for quick sun protection or emergency shelter.
Quick repairs: Whether you’ve got a broken window, a leaking shed roof, or a project that’s running behind schedule, a tarp gives you a fast, temporary solution to cover and protect.
Move-in and construction: Keep furniture, materials, and tools dry during loading and unloading. They’re light enough to toss over a load and tie down without extra hands.
It’s the tarp you grab first. It handles the rough stuff without being hard to manage.
Comparing 5 Mil Tarps with Heavier Duty Options
Some people assume a thicker tarp is always better. That’s not exactly true. Heavier tarps like 10 mil or 16 mil models are excellent for long-term or high-stress use, but they come with added cost, stiffness, and weight. For short-term or lightweight coverage, they’re just not always the best option.
Here’s how 5 mil tarps stack up:
- Weight: Easier to carry and fold, even in larger sizes
- Flexibility: Better for wrapping awkward shapes like furniture or tools
- Cost: More affordable, especially when buying multiples or covering large areas
- Speed: Quicker to deploy, adjust, and pack up
Heavier tarps do have their place. You’d want a 16 mil tarp for securing cargo on a cross-country haul or covering machinery for a long winter. But if you’re hauling brush to the curb or trying to keep your smoker dry before the next backyard cookout, a 5 mil tarp is the better call.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Despite their thinner profile, 5 mil tarps aren’t flimsy. Brix Tarps uses a layered polyethylene design that holds up under pressure. The grommets stay strong even when the tarp is pulled tight. The plastic coating keeps water from seeping in and resists damage from moderate sun exposure.
That said, it’s important to understand the limits. These tarps can handle light rain, occasional wind, and daily use outdoors. They’re not designed for hurricanes or long-term storage in full sun. With that in mind, if used correctly and stored properly, they’ll hold up well season after season.
The addition of reinforced corners and heat-sealed seams means fewer failures, fewer leaks, and more consistent protection. Whether you’re throwing one over your woodpile or stringing it between trees for shade, you’ll get reliable, predictable results.
Affordability and Value
Budget matters. That’s why the 5 mil collection exists. You don’t always need premium coverage. Sometimes you just need a practical solution that doesn’t cost much but works every time.
With Brix Tarps, you’re not sacrificing quality just because you’re paying less. The materials are still rugged, the construction is still solid, and the usability is still top-tier. You’re just getting it in a form that’s thinner, lighter, and better suited for quick tasks.
This makes the 5 mil collection perfect for stocking up. Keep a few different sizes on hand for unexpected projects. Use them as drop cloths, tent bases, or impromptu shelters. The cost-per-use is low, and the convenience is high.
Proper Care and Maintenance Tips
If you want your 5 mil tarp to last, a little maintenance goes a long way. These aren’t throwaway products, and treating them with care extends their life significantly.
- Always dry your tarp before folding and storing. Trapped moisture leads to mildew.
- Avoid dragging it across rough concrete, which can wear down the outer coating.
- Store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight to avoid UV breakdown over time.
- Check the grommets after heavy use to make sure they’re still firmly seated.
- If a small tear develops, patch it right away with heavy-duty tape or tarp repair kits.
These steps only take a few minutes but keep your tarp in top shape for future jobs.
Choosing the Right Size
One of the best parts about the Brix Tarps 5 Mil Collection is the wide range of sizes available. Whether you need something small for a single chair or large enough to cover a full trailer, there’s a tarp that fits.
Measure your item’s width and height, then add a few inches on each side for overlap. It’s usually smarter to size up slightly, especially if you’ll be tying the tarp down or folding it over. A little extra slack gives you more options.
And if you’re unsure, keep a few sizes handy. Having multiple options makes it easier to adjust for different tasks.
Best Practices for Securing a 5 Mil Tarp
Getting the most out of your tarp means securing it properly. This isn’t just about preventing flapping in the wind. It’s also about reducing strain that causes premature wear.
Use rope, bungee cords, or ball ties through the grommets. Tie the tarp to stable anchor points without over-tightening. If you pull it too tight, you risk tearing the corners or stressing the seams. Keep a little slack to absorb tension.
If your tarp is staying up for several days, check it periodically. Make sure ties are holding and grommets aren’t fraying. With good setup, you’ll get maximum protection and minimum damage.
Who Should Buy a 5 Mil Tarp?
These tarps are made for people who need reliable coverage without going overboard. If you’re looking for protection that’s fast, light, and budget-friendly, you’re in the right place.
- Homeowners who need to cover grills, patio gear, or yard waste
- Campers who want waterproof ground cloths and light rain protection
- Small businesses who need quick weather shields during jobs
- Landscapers who want durable tarps for hauling materials
- DIYers who use tarps for painting, sanding, and other projects
It’s the all-around tarp that fits almost everyone’s needs.
Customer Impressions and Reliability
Customers who buy from Brix Tarps often point to the combination of affordability and reliability. The 5 mil collection isn’t trying to be the heaviest tarp out there. Instead, it does what it’s supposed to: protect, cover, and resist light weather without being a pain to handle.
Most reviews highlight the ease of use and flexibility. They’re especially popular with people who don’t want to wrestle with a 20-pound tarp every time it rains. Simple, effective, and fairly priced.
FAQs: 5 Mil Tarps
Are 5 mil tarps waterproof?
Yes. Every 5 mil tarp in the Brix collection is coated on both sides with waterproof polyethylene. This makes them highly resistant to rain and moisture. Just make sure the tarp is installed correctly with a proper slope to help water run off.
How long does a 5 mil tarp usually last outdoors?
When stored and used properly, a 5 mil tarp can last several months of regular outdoor use. If exposed to constant sun or wind without reinforcement, that lifespan shortens. Rotate or store your tarp between uses to extend its life.
Can 5 mil tarps handle heavy wind?
They can withstand light to moderate wind if secured well. Always use reinforced tie-down points and avoid leaving tarps loose or half-covered. For high-wind conditions, consider doubling up or choosing a heavier-duty tarp.
What sizes are available in the Brix Tarps 5 mil collection?
Brix offers a wide range of sizes, from small 5×7 tarps to large 20×30 covers and more. This variety makes it easy to find the right fit for vehicles, equipment, or outdoor furniture.
Are blue tarps better than other colors?
Blue is a great option for UV stability and visibility. It reflects sunlight well and doesn’t heat up as much as darker colors. It’s a practical, all-purpose color that’s ideal for general outdoor use.
Can 5 mil tarps be used as ground covers for camping?
Absolutely. They work well as ground cloths under tents or for placing gear on damp or rocky terrain. Just be sure to fold or tuck edges to prevent water pooling underneath.
What’s the difference between 5 mil and 10 mil tarps?
10 mil tarps are twice as thick, which makes them stronger and more resistant to tearing. That also means they’re heavier and more expensive. A 5 mil tarp is better for short-term, mobile tasks.
Do 5 mil tarps resist UV rays?
Yes, to a degree. The blue polyethylene coating offers moderate UV resistance. For long-term sun exposure, rotating the tarp or providing shade helps reduce degradation.
Is a 5 mil tarp strong enough to cover vehicles?
Yes, if the vehicle is parked and the tarp is tied down securely. For long-term coverage or severe weather, a thicker tarp may be more suitable.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been looking for a simple, lightweight solution for everyday coverage, the 5 Mil Collection from Brix Tarps hits the mark. These tarps are built to be fast, flexible, and budget-friendly. They hold up to rain, resist tearing, and fold away easily when the job’s done.
What’s more, their size variety and smart design make them a great choice for home use, travel, work sites, or quick protection during unpredictable weather. Whether you’re hauling mulch or shielding your grill, you’ll be glad to have one close by.
