GUARD SHIELD Super Heavy Duty 16mil Tarp 12x20 ft - Waterproof Cover

In this review of the GUARD SHIELD 16mil tarp, the bottom line is simple: this is a heavy duty, utilitarian cover for anyone who needs robust weather protection and reinforced anchoring for outdoor gear. The tarp stands out for its 16mil thickness and double-sided green/silver coating, which combine to resist tears and shed water. That thickness makes it heavier than lightweight tarps but also more durable for repeated use as a tent shelter, truck bed cover, or emergency roof patch.

Key Features

• 16mil thickness: Provides extra puncture and tear resistance so the tarp holds up under heavy use and long drives.
• Double-sided green/silver finish: Reflects sunlight on the silver side while the green exterior blends with outdoor surroundings.
• Woven and coated polyethylene: Heat sealed seams increase waterproofing and reduce the risk of seam failure in wet conditions.
• Rustproof aluminum grommets every 18 in: Allow secure tie-downs at regular intervals to fasten the tarp to vehicles, frames, or anchor points.
• Rope in hem and reinforced edges: Improve load distribution at attachment points and reduce fraying during repeated use.
• Portable and washable: The material can be cleaned and folded for storage between jobs or camping trips.

Who It's For

This tarp is aimed at homeowners, campers, and tradespeople who need a durable, heavy duty cover for gear like boats, ATVs, garden equipment, or for use as a temporary shelter. Its weight and construction suit repeated outdoor exposure, hauling and long-term protective uses.

Those looking for an ultralight, backpacking tarp or a decorative canopy should look elsewhere, since the 16mil material is notably heavier. If corrosion-prone metal fittings are a firm no-go, the aluminum grommets are rustproof but may feel less heavy-duty than thick brass in very abrasive applications.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Very durable construction and thickness that resists tears during hauling or high-wind exposure.
• Regularly spaced rustproof grommets and a rope in hem make securing the tarp straightforward.
• Heat sealed seams improve waterproofing so it performs well as a cover or emergency patch.
• Double-sided finish offers both reflectivity and a subdued exterior color for versatile use.

Cons

• Heavier weight can be cumbersome to handle alone and is less suited to ultralight camping.
• Some customers reported missing grommets on arrival, so inspect hardware before relying on it for critical jobs.

Specifications

Size	12 ft x 20 ft
Material	Woven and coated polyethylene
Thickness	16mil
Finish	Double-sided green/silver
Grommet type	Rustproof aluminum every 18 in
Seams	Heat sealed
Edges	Rope in hem with reinforced edges

Our Verdict

The GUARD SHIELD 16mil 12x20 ft tarp is a smart choice for anyone who needs a dependable, heavy duty cover that stands up to weather, hauling and repeated use. Its reinforced edges, heat sealed seams, and regular grommets make it good value for protecting equipment or creating a shelter, though its weight means it is best suited to car camping and utility use rather than lightweight backpacking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the grommets rustproof?
Yes, the product uses rustproof aluminum grommets placed approximately every 18 in for tie-downs.

Is the tarp waterproof?
Yes, the woven and coated polyethylene with heat sealed seams provides waterproof protection for equipment and shelter uses.

Can it be used as a temporary roof patch?
Yes, the heavy 16mil thickness and reinforced edges make it suitable for temporary roof patches and debris covering.