20 Mil Black Tarp 12 x 16 - Extreme Heavy Duty Waterproof Cover

Our review of the 20 Mil Black Tarp 12 x 16 finds it best for homeowners and outdoorsmen who need a dependable, no-nonsense protective cover that stands up to weather and wear. The single biggest reason to buy is its heavy 20 mil construction made from 100% virgin polyethylene, which delivers noticeably thicker feel and better longevity than many thinner, mixed-material tarps. For roof patches, boat coverage, patio protection or a campground shelter, this tarp's reinforced edges and grommet spacing make it a solid choice for seasonal and long-term use.

Key Features

• Finished Size: The listed 12 x 16 size is the actual finished dimension so customers receive the full coverage they expect without missing inches.
• Material Quality: Made from pure virgin polyethylene, the tarp resists tearing and rot better than tarps made with recycled blends.
• Reinforced Edges: Heavy-duty hems prevent fraying at stress points, extending usable life when tied down for extended periods.
• Metal Grommets: Grommets spaced every 24 in provide reliable anchor points for rope or bungee attachments and make installation straightforward.
• Weather Protection: A waterproof, UV resistant construction helps shield gear from sun damage, rain and snow across seasons.
• Multipurpose Design: The tarp works for roofs, boats, pools, paint projects and campsite shelters, making it a versatile cover at home or on the road.

Who It's For

This tarp suits homeowners repairing roof leaks, boat owners needing seasonal covers, and outdoor users who want a heavy, dependable sheet for camping or covering patio furniture. The extra weight and reinforced construction make it especially useful where durability and weather resistance are priorities.

It may not be ideal for ultralight backpacking or situations that require compact, extremely lightweight sheltering, and buyers who need custom-fit covers or transparent material should consider other options. For general purpose heavy-duty coverage, however, it hits the right balance of strength and value.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Thick 20 mil construction and virgin polyethylene deliver a durable, long-lasting cover.
• Finished size is accurate, so purchasers get full 12 x 16 coverage without surprise shrinkage.
• Reinforced edges and metal grommets every 24 in make tying down easy and reliable.
• Waterproof and UV resistant for year-round outdoor protection.

Cons

• Heavier weight makes it less suitable for compact backpacking or ultralight uses.
• A few user reports mention occasional tearing under extreme strain, so heavy abrasion points may still require extra protection.

Specifications

Finished Size	12 x 16 ft
Material	100% virgin polyethylene
Thickness	20 mil
Grommet Spacing	Every 24 in
Weave Count	16 x 16
Edge Reinforcement	Reinforced hems
Color	Black

Our Verdict

The 20 Mil Black Tarp 12 x 16 is a practical, heavy-duty cover that offers strong value for homeowners and outdoor users who need reliable weatherproofing. Its finished size, reinforced edges and solid material make it a good choice for roof patching, boat covers and long-term outdoor protection, though its heavier weight means it is not aimed at ultralight use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tarp fully waterproof?
Yes. The polyethylene construction is waterproof and designed to keep out rain and snow when properly secured.

How often are the grommets placed?
Grommets are set every 24 in along the reinforced edges to provide regular anchor points for tie-downs.

Will it resist sun damage?
It is UV resistant, which helps protect the material and covered items from sun degradation over time.