11 Best Tarps for Chicken Coop & Run: A Winter & Rain Proof Pen

Poly Tarpaulins or Tarps for chicken coop and run are one of the essential things in poultry farming. For making a winter-proof and rainproof chicken coop, it is beneficial.

It also helps from excessive heat in summer, but is primarily used to winterize the chicken coop and run. Tarps are one of the best covers for chicken run and coops.

In this guide, you will know all about the best tarps for a chicken coop, its benefits, and user guides.

What is a Tarp for a Chicken Coop?

A tarp or tarpaulin is a flexible plastic sheet that is water and airproof. It is widely used for covering chicken run, coop, and other places in the house.

They are same like canopy which can be used to cover the run and coop during raining. It is a multipurpose polyester cloth coated with polyurethane, which does not allow water and air to pass inside it and keeps the coop safe.

The weatherproof tarp is highly effective in wrapping the chicken coop rooftop and side netting. It keeps the coop dry from rainwater and provides a cozy environment by winterizing the inner side of the pen.

Top 11 Best Tarps for Chicken Coop (To Protect The Coop & Run from Winter, Rain Summer)

Here are few best tarps for covering your chicken coop and run:

1. Super Heavy Duty Poly Tarp Cover Thick 16 Mil, Waterproof, 100% UV Resistant, Rot/Rip/Tear Proof Tarpaulin (Dark Brown)

Last update on 2024-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

It is one of the best tarps for a chicken coop, made up of polyethylene. This is very highly rated and made up of durable material.

The tarp of this brand is available in many sizes, from 6′ x 8′ to 40′ x 60′. So, you can not only use it on the chicken coop, but also around the run and houses.

It is UV protected, so it will keep your coop members healthy and relaxed. The tarp has a 16 mil thickness and is brown in color.

The corners and edges of the tarp are reinforced by hemming the edges with poly twine rope border piping, making it tear-resistant. It is one of the best tarps to make your chicken coop and run weatherproof.

This is a multipurpose poly tarp that is useful for all types of use on your farm. You can use it for securing the rooftop from rainwater, snow, side from storms, etc.

This chicken coop run cover also contains brass-made grommets from tying with rope. They are rustproof and long-lasting.

Moreover, you can use it for covering shelter boats, trucks, cars, motor vehicles, industrial or farm equipment, outdoor patio furniture, barbecue grills, backyard pools, woodpiles, etc.

Not only this, if you’re going trekking, you can use a canopy or a tent. So, it’s a good tarp for a backyard coop, run, and home usage.

It also contains brass-made grommets from tying with rope. They are rustproof and long-lasting.

Pros

• Thick and sturdy.
• UV protected.
• Multipurpose use.
• Rust-free brass grommets.

Cons

• Joined multiple pieces.
• Little heavy.

2. Super Heavy Duty 16 Mil Brown Poly Tarp Cover – Thick Waterproof, UV Resistant, Rip, Tear Proof Tarpaulin with Grommets, Reinforced Edges by Xpose Safety

Last update on 2024-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This is another best brown color tarp by Xpose Safety. It is 16 Mil thick, which is best for durability.

The tarpaulin sheet of this brand is available in lots of sizes, ranging from 4′ x 20′ to 40′ x 60′. However, most of the large size chicken sheds need 9′ height tarps. 

You may have a portable chicken coop or tractor; the small size is suitable for that type of pen. Covering the chicken run is also essential in winters so that your flocks will get a cozy environment.

This tarp is also UV-protected and best for all types of weather. So, whether it is raining outside, snow days, your chickens will enjoy the temperature in their coop and run.

On corners of the tarp, you will get metal grommets every 18 inches so that you can tie them wherever you want. This tarpaulin sheet is made up of polyethylene for long-lasting use.

The tarp edges are reinforced with a double layer and grommet, which makes it more sturdy. 

Pros

• Durable and strong.
• Metal Grommets added.
• UV protected.

Cons

• Quality requires improvement.
• Grommets need improvement.

3. Tarp, Waterproof Plastic Poly 5.5 Mil Thick Tarpaulin with Metal Grommets Every 18 Inches – Emergency Rain Shelter, Outdoor Cover and Camping Use – (Reversible, Blue and Silver) (10 x 12 Foot)

Last update on 2024-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

It is another one of the best-selling tarps by KING-A-MA-JIGS Store. The thickness of this tarpaulin sheet is about 5.5, which is best for winterizing portable chicken coops.

If you have a portable chicken tractor in your backyard, you can use this tarp for covering the rooftop and run area.

This will work great in the rain, making a small shed in the chicken run area. It includes metal grommets every 18 inches.

The corners of the tarp are capped and reinforced with double lamination. So, it is a durable tarp for small to medium size chicken coops.

The manufacturer of this tarpaulin is also guaranteeing that this sheet is Tear-resistant and dustproof. 

Pros

• Best for all types of portable chicken coops.
• Reversible, two colors, blue and silver.

Cons

• The size is a little small.
• Tarp quality needs improvement.
• Not for heavy use like in a storm.

4. Heavy Duty White Poly Tarp 10′ x 20′ Multipurpose Protective Cover – Durable, Waterproof, Weather Proof, Rip and Tear Resistant – Extra Thick 12 Mil Polyethylene – by Xpose Safety

Last update on 2024-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

It is another great, sturdy tarp by Xpose Safety that you can use in all types of chicken coops and sheds. The thickness of the tarp is about 12 Mil.

The tarpaulin sheets of this brand are available in different sizes, ranging from 6′ x 8′ to 50′ x 100′. 

However, buying 9-10′ height and 20-25′ width tarps for a chicken coop are best because that is easy to fold and use. Very long size and heightened tarps are tough to use and hang during emergencies.

The tarp is made up of polyethylene and can be used in all types of backyard coops and household usage. It is a multipurpose tarpaulin sheet with suitable thickness.

Corners are double layered and have aluminum grommets on corners every 18′ distance. It is one of the best tarps for chicken coop and tractors weatherproofing.

Not only for wintering the chicken coop, but also for keeping the pen UV protected and safe from fading colors from coops wall and rooftop.

Pros

• Sturdy tarp for winterizing chicken tractors.
• Available in multiple sizes.
• Aluminum grommets are attached.

Cons

• A little expensive.
• Grommets need improvement.
• Only for average rain and sun, not for storms like situations.

5. Hanjet Multi Purpose Tarp 12′ x 16′ 9-mil Thick Waterproof Camping Tents Tarps Poly Tarpaulin Green

Last update on 2024-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This is another best tarps for winterizing chicken coops and tractors by Hanjet Store. Saving chicken houses from different weather conditions is most important because a chicken coop comprises hard-earned money.

It is a 9 Mil medium thickness tarp for backyard chicken farms. You can also use this tarpaulin for keeping your poultry feeds clean and dry in rain and winter. 

This product is available in 7-8 sizes ranging from 8′ x 10′ to 30′ x 50′, so you can choose whatever you require.

The company claims that its polyethylene tarps are waterproof and long-lasting. You will also get rust-resistant grommets on the outer edges. The grommets provide a firm grip when tying the tarps for multipurpose use.

Pros

• A long-lasting chicken coop runs to cover.
• Rust Proof grommets available.
• Reinforced corners and edges.
• Value for money.

Cons

• Grommets fitting needs improvement.
• Not for large coop side covers.

6. Multi-Purpose Silver/Brown Heavy Duty DRY TOP Poly Tarp

Last update on 2024-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

For winterizing chicken tractors and portable coops, it is one of the best tarps for chicken coop by Foremost. It is made up of plastic and polyethylene.

This tarp is reversible with two colors, brown and silver so that you can use it from both sides. It contains rope reinforced hem and aluminum grommets.

The tarp’s corners are reinforced with a plastic layer, and the company claims this tarpaulin is UV protected. The company does not compromise with size and provides you the perfect size.

You can use it for different applications apart from poultry like agriculture, car covering, tent, furniture cover. It has 22 different sizes.

Pros

• Best tarp for small applications.
• Good quality.
• UV protected.

Cons

• Grommets fitting needs improvement.

7. Waterproof Multi-Purpose Poly Tarp – Blue Tarpaulin Protector for Cars, Boats, Construction Contractors, Campers, and Emergency Shelter. Rot, Rust and UV Resistant Protection Sheet

Last update on 2024-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Poly tarp by Tarpatop is also a highly rated tarpaulin sheet available online for winterizing and UV protection for various purposes. This is a 5.5 Mil thick tarp.

It is available in multiple sizes ranging from 5′ x 7′ to 30′ x 40′. This 5.5 Mil thickness tarp is best for small chicken coops rooftop covering, other equipment, feeds, in backyard farms.

It is heavy-duty, and the tarp contains one grommet every 32″ on the corner. This tarpaulin sheet is featured with some fantastic features like fade-resistant, heat-sealed seams, and rope reinforced hem.

Pros

• Multi-purpose work.
• Sturdy and Rustproof.
• UV protected.

Cons

• A little bit thin.
• Grommets need improvement.

8. CCS CHICAGO CANVAS & SUPPLY Heavy Duty Waterproof, Rust Proof Grommets, Industrial & Commercial Use Canvas Tarp, Olive Drab

Last update on 2024-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This tarp sheet from CCS CHICAGO CANVAS & SUPPLY comes with some unique features: it is waterproof but breathable. The grommets added in the corners are brass-made, so you don’t have to worry about rust.

It is made up of breathable cotton duck canvas, so you don’t have to worry if you are covering your chicken coop for a 2-3 hours. Must provide ventilation for coop members.

Not only this, you can use this tarpaulin sheet for different things like chicken runs, feed, equipment, rooftop cover. Other than this, it’s best for covering construction equipment, industrial environment, working site, furniture, etc.

It is also available in different sizes ranging from small 6′ x 8′ to 20′ x 20′. You can also choose different colors from the list.

Pros

• Long-lasting.
• Breathable fabric.
• Multipurpose use.
• Brass grommets.

Cons

• Not water-resistant.
• Strong smell.

9. Super Heavy Duty Brown Tarp 8 Oz, 6’X8′

Last update on 2024-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you are searching for a perfect long-lasting poly tarp for your chicken coop, Harpster is one of the best tarps for chicken coop. It is available in 6′ x 8′, the ideal size for small to medium sheds.

This tarp is available in multiple colors so that you can select according to your need. Here, in this poly tarp, the manufacturer has used high tenacity polyethylene tapes and converted them into the fabric.

It is a sturdy but lightweight tarp that is suitable for all types of backyard farm use. This tarpaulin sheet is also UV protected so, you don’t have to worry about hot climates.

The edges of the poly tarp are reinforced and added with grommets. You can use it for covering your car, furniture, chicken tractors, rooftop, and side of the runs.

Pros

• Heavy-duty grommets.
• UV protected.
• Thick tarp

Cons

• Uneven grommets.
• Very thick to fold.

10. Tarp Cover Silver/Black Heavy Duty Thick Material, Waterproof, Great for Tarpaulin Canopy Tent, Boat, RV or Pool Cover

Last update on 2024-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This is another tarp for backyard farms by Trademark Supplies. It is available in 5-6 colors.

The tarp of this brand is available from a small size of 6′ x 8′ to a large extent of 100′ x 100′, so there is nothing to worry about.

On every 10′ x 10′ per side, you will get 4-5 grommets. The tarp is fully waterproof, so it will save your backyard coops from heavy rains.

Use it in many places like covering cars, canopy tents, boat covering, pool cover, and obviously for small to large chicken sheds. This looks durable and long-lasting for all types of the household to outdoor camp use.

Pros

• Best for the rainy season.
• Best winterizing tool for chicken coops.
• Durable and highly protective.

Cons

• More grommets need to be added.
• Not the perfect size.
• Not best for storms.

11. Tarpco Safety Extra Heavy Duty 14 Mil Tarp Cover, Waterproof, UV Resistant, Rip and Tear Proof, Poly Tarpaulin with Reinforced Edges for Roof, Camping, Patio, Pool , Boat

Last update on 2024-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Tarpco Safety Extra Heavy Duty Tarp is available in different sizes and thicknesses. You can use 7 Mil thin ones for objects like cars, furniture and tie the tarpaulin sheet with rope.

The 14 Mil thick tarpaulin sheet is best for coop side covering during heavy rain and storms. It is made up of recycled material using pure polyethylene.

The tarp edges are reinforced, and metal grommets are fitted on every 24″ space on the corners. This is suitable for many applications like chicken coop roofs, boats, pools, outdoor furniture, car cover, and camping tents.

It is UV resistant, so putting them on the rooftop of chicken tractors and sheds will save them from fading and keep them long-lasting. 

Moreover, it is weatherproof, so it keeps your materials safe from wind, rain, and snow.

Pros

• Sturdy tarp.
• Good customer support.
• UV protected and weatherproof.
• Accurate size.

Cons

• Grommets fitting needs improvement.
• Color and dimensions require improvement.

Benefits of Using a Tarp in The Chicken Coop and Run

Tarp or Polyurethane Tarpaulin covers has a very vital role in the poultry industry and backyard chicken farming –

1. Protect Shed Roof in Heavy Rain

Most of the chicken coops all over the world are made up of wood. Wood sheds are great for all types of weather.

For making a chicken coop roof waterproof, use a good oil or water-based paint for wood. 

Still, most of the chicken coop roofs are leaky, and farmers were not aware of that. When they know, it becomes very late to repair and paint.

In this type of situation, using a tarp on a chicken coop rooftop makes the pen weatherproof. During the heavy rain, you can also cover the nesting boxes and windows of the pen with tarpaulin sheets.

Remember to provide ventilation on the chicken coop and remove the tarpaulin sheet after the rain.

If your chicken coop has no leaky roofs, you can use the tarp only during the rainy season to keep your chicken coop color and wood long-lasting.

2. Winterizing Chicken Coop

Like other animals, chickens also need a new environment for free-ranging. But in winters, it becomes tough for them to forage and get outside because of the freezing.

In icy weather or during snowfall, coop heaters are the ultimate equipment for flocks survival. But if you want to maintain a warm temperature inside the coop, a tarp works excellent.

For long snowfall days, just covey the chicken coop side netting with a 0.35 mm to 0.5 mm tarpaulin sheet and switch on the coop heater.

If you use a tarp for the chicken coop, you don’t need to run the heaters continuously because the tarp covering keeps the heat inside the pen for a long time.

Most chickens are cold-hardy, but survival is not the only thing because winterizing a chicken coop during cold climates does not disturb the egg-laying and breeding in chickens.

So, it will indirectly provide you profit and without harming your backyard farming.

3. Keep Chicken Coop Litter Dry in Storms

Storms are one of the significant climate changes which affect your farm. It causes strong winds and usually rain, thunder, lightning, or snow.

Because of wind, the rainwater may get inside your poultry shed and chicken tractors. Excessive collection of water inside the shed litter causes terrible odor, and your flocks become dirty.

It also causes various types of infection. In this type of condition, you may need to change the coop bedding or litter.

But if you use a tarp around your shed netting and cover it during the storm, then it will efficiently protect your chicken coop floor from getting wet.

4. Helpful in High Sunny Climates

In a few hot climates or tropical countries, you may use tarp sheets to make some shade in the surrounding area of the chicken coop. 

It would help if you only covered the sunlight side of the coop or shed because ventilation is crucial in sheds. 

Use some bamboo sticks to stand the tarpaulin sheet around the shed hardware cloth. Just remember, air must flow adequately from one side to another.

5. Covers The Chicken Runs

Tarps are one of the best covers for chicken runs. Every day, chicken forage and move in their run area.

You cannot feed and provide water efficiently in their portable coops. So, they come out and enjoy their treats and feed in the open run area.

During heavy rain, it is difficult to allow chickens to the run. But if you have a tarp, you can make a canopy for your chicken coop and run.

So, no rain and sunlight will hamper their daily activities. It will also prevent the metal surfaces from rusting.

How to Cover Your Chicken Coop and Run with a Plastic Tarp?

Covering a chicken coop and run with a plastic tarp is not tricky, but putting it in the wrong method may cause issues. Sometimes, covering in the wrong way may lead to leakage of water inside the coop.

If you have a small portable chicken coop, you can cover the rooftop and sides to keep them safe from various weather conditions. It will save your hard invested money on your chicken tractor.

Most backyard chicken farmers raise lots of chickens primarily for commercial purposes. So, they make large size sheds for large flocks.

You need to cover the side hardware cloth netting for long sheds during heavy rains, storms, and snowfall. Do not cover the shed in summer because it may cause the collection of excess ammonia inside the coop.

In summer, use bamboo sticks or any support to increase the side shade of the tarp. But it is needed if you have built your coop in the wrong direction.  

Do I Need Plastic Wrapping for My Chicken Coop Roof and Covering of Side Netting?

Yes, every chicken raiser needs plastic wrap for their chicken coop because it keeps it waterproof and rustproof. Furthermore, your chicken flocks will live comfortably in all types of weather.

It is required when you have a leaky chicken coop rooftop and heavy rains for a long time during a storm. 

Additionally, if you don’t need it, you can keep it for backup purposes because you can’t go to buy a new one in an emergency. 

Windy rain occasionally comes; if you have a tarp in that type of situation in your home, you can easily cover the chicken coop within a few minutes.

How Often Should I Cover the Coop With the Plastic Tarp Sheeting in Winter, Rain, and Summer?

A plastic tarp is not required to cover the coop all the time. It is helpful if the weather condition is so intense that it may harm your chicken coop.

You don’t need to use the plastic tarp in clean weather; just pack and keep it in your storeroom.

During heavy rain, use the tarp only during the rain time and remove the tarp if the rain stops with good sunlight. In heavy rain and storms, do not remove the tarpaulin sheet for a few days.

Summary

Using a tarp for a chicken coop is crucial during heavy rains, storms, and summer. It has a significant role in covering and protecting your chicken run and coop.

In a sudden change of weather conditions, tarpaulin sheets are beneficial for keeping the chicken flocks and coop safe. Every so often, it is constructive for winterizing chicken coops during the deadly cold temperature days.

Choose a good poly tarp for chicken houses with suitable quality grommets, reinforced corners, UV protected, and thick foldable ones. I hope this guide helped you to select the best tarps for your chicken coop and run.