Looking for ways to extend the life of your baseball field tarps? Discover why investing in covers for your rolled-up infield tarps is essential for protection, maintenance, and long-term savings.
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Tarp Protection Essentials: Why You Need a Cover for Rolled-Up Infield Tarps

The Hidden Threat to Your Field Investment

When it comes to protecting your baseball field, infield tarps are an absolute necessity. But what’s protecting your tarps when they’re not in use? Many field managers overlook this critical question, often learning the hard way that proper storage is just as important as the tarp itself.

Rolled-up infield tarps face constant exposure to the elements, even when they’re off the field. Sun damage, moisture buildup, debris, and pest intrusions can dramatically shorten their lifespan. This is where dedicated tarp covers come in – they’re not just an accessory, but essential protection for your valuable field equipment.

The Real Cost of Unprotected Tarps

Baseball infield tarps represent a significant investment, typically costing thousands of dollars. Without proper protection, this investment can deteriorate much faster than you’d expect. Let’s examine what happens to unprotected rolled-up tarps:

UV Damage

Even the highest quality tarps aren’t immune to the sun’s harmful rays. Constant UV exposure leads to material breakdown, causing your tarp to become brittle and prone to cracking. This damage isn’t just cosmetic – it compromises the tarp’s waterproofing abilities and structural integrity.

Moisture Problems

A rolled-up tarp that gets wet and can’t properly dry creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew growth. These fungi don’t just create unpleasant odors – they actively break down tarp materials and can create health concerns for your grounds crew.

Debris and Pest Infiltration

Uncovered tarps become magnets for leaves, twigs, dirt, and even curious critters looking for shelter. These unwanted guests can cause physical damage through tears, punctures, and stains that reduce effectiveness and appearance.

Key Benefits of Using Dedicated Tarp Covers

Extended Lifespan

The primary benefit is straightforward: proper covers can double or even triple the usable life of your infield tarps. When you consider the cost of replacement, this benefit alone typically pays for the cover many times over.

Consistent Performance

Protected tarps maintain their water resistance and handling characteristics much longer. This means more reliable performance when you need it most – during unexpected weather events when field protection is crucial.

Easier Handling

Clean, dry tarps are significantly easier to deploy and remove. Your grounds crew will appreciate not having to deal with wet, dirty, or damaged tarps, making their job more efficient and reducing the risk of injury.

Professional Appearance

Well-maintained equipment reflects well on your organization. When visiting teams, fans, and stakeholders see your attention to detail in equipment care, it speaks volumes about your overall program quality.

What to Look for in a Quality Tarp Cover

Not all covers offer the same level of protection. When selecting a cover for your rolled-up infield tarps, prioritize these features:

Weather-Resistant Materials

Look for covers made from durable, water-resistant fabrics that can withstand outdoor conditions. The best options feature UV-resistant treatments and reinforced stitching at stress points.

Proper Sizing

A cover should fully encase your rolled tarp with some extra room for easy application. Too tight, and it becomes difficult to use; too loose, and it won’t provide adequate protection.

Secure Fastening System

Quality covers include reliable closure methods – whether drawstrings, straps, or heavy-duty zippers – that keep the cover in place even during windy conditions.

Breathability

While waterproofing is important, some degree of breathability helps prevent condensation buildup inside the cover, which can be just as damaging as external moisture.

Implementation Best Practices

To maximize protection, follow these guidelines when using tarp covers:

Always ensure your infield tarp is clean and completely dry before rolling and covering it. Even small amounts of moisture can lead to mildew growth during storage. Consider designating a specific storage location that offers additional protection from the elements. And remember to periodically check covered tarps for any signs of moisture or damage, especially after extreme weather events.

Protect Your Investment Today

Your infield tarps work hard to protect your baseball field – isn’t it time you protected them too? At Hydration and Cooling, we understand the importance of proper equipment maintenance. While we specialize in hydration solutions for teams and events, we share your commitment to protecting valuable sports equipment investments.

When life gets hot, we do cool – and when it comes to your field equipment, staying cool about protection can cost you. Invest in quality tarp covers today and extend the life of your infield tarps for seasons to come.