The use of tarps are usually in seen in individual and industrial purposes.  Examples of an individual use of tarp is seen when a polyethylene tarp is used to cover season vehicle like boat or when a canvas tarp is used to cover furniture or floors for interior painting project.  For seasonal vehicles like boat usually have boat tarps in custom sizes fitting around the vehicle.   On the other hand, it could also be used for industrial applications such as when tarps are canopies for a large-scale garages and some uses on construction sites.  In addition to that, mesh tarps are often used as truck tarps.  But because of the numerous options and huge selection when it comes to tarps, sometimes it is difficult to find the right one that provides for your protective needs.  Dealers and manufacturers of tarps often carry mix of these types.  However, with too many options ranging from canvas to vinyl, it would be wiser if you know the different types of tarps beforehand to make your search easier.  Polyethylene is the most common tarp.  They are also known as poly tarps.  They are the most common for use in the outdoors.  The most obvious use of polyethylene tarps in outdoors is for protecting vehicles.