Slightly different tarp advice...

[leon-b]

I've nearly finished building my camper van based on a Mercedes Vario 814 (not sure it'll ever be finished) and am looking for a tarp to act as a cheap/versatile awning. I plan on lashing it to the roofrack and then using a couple of poles to support the other end.

It will live in the van so weights not an issue, although if it's light enough to be used elsewhere that's a bonus. My main priority is that it's durable, fire retardant and waterproof.

Any suggestions? I'm guessing 3x3m size would be adequate although I'll measure up before purchase obviously!

Ill post some photos of the van if anybody's interested...

Gracias!

 

[JamPan]

If you're keen on making it yourself I'd recommend using 6oz ripstop nylon.
Three 25mm soft weave webbing tails with bar buckles, stitched along the roof rack edge to anchor it on, then actually the most versatile shape is an irregular pentagon shape with sweeping curves to each point (except the van side which is straight.) eyelets reinforced with pvc. Then you can have three telescopic poles to elevate it right up, or two, or one and guy the others down.

 

[oldtimer]

I've found the 3x3 DD tarp rather too big for my VW camper. I reckon you'd do better to use a basha, or cut to size.

 

[IC_Rafe]

I'd just use the heavy duty blue tarps. I'm pretty sure you can get that kind of tarp in a fire retardant version.

 

[leon-b]

The campers based on a Merc 814 which is a 7.5t panel van... Plenty of space lol

 

[lou1661]

You could always have a chat with Ian (bilmo-p5) http://www.bushcraftuk.com/forum/member.php?u=20177 Im sure that he can sort one out to any specs that you require.

 

[leon-b]

Just checked an old thread of his, his tarps look lovely! I'm tempted by a 4x4m one but the price rises a fair amount at that size.

 

[PDA1]

+1 on IC Rafe. "blue tarps of various weights and sizes are cheap and easily available. Also in many colours if that doesn't sound silly.