Tyvek tarp

Tyvek tape to reinforce the corners and grommets thru both. Punch the holes before tamping the grommet down, makes it neater.

It sounds like tyvek tape is pretty strong? How is the adhesive? Could I make loops made of the tape?

No the method I outlined really is best. I had one Tyvek tarp made like this last half the PCT. Tyvek does tear under stress, so re enforcing the corners with the tape and using grommets alleviates that stress. And yes the tape is very adhesive, no worries there. Use cord and it's good to go.

Example

Is Tyvek 43gsm strong enough?

I have used the kite making Tyvek 43gsm, which is the lightest, but you have to take care of it better than the house wrap type.

These instructions on how to make a Tyvek footprint are probably also helpful for a tarp:

http://indefinitelywild.gizmodo.com/how-to-make-your-own-tent-footprint-for-25-1666007412

Additionally, you can find adhesive patches with grommets on Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FI33KGU/

The reviews indicate people have had success using these with Tyvek.

I made one for my JMT thru last summer, and I just used duct tape and a hole punch, which worked really well, even in storms.

Here's a photo:

THE NEXT QUESTION IS WHERE CAN I GET THE TYVEK. HOME DEPOT AND AMAZON QUANTITIES ARE HUGE. PRECUT FOOTPRINTS DON'T LEAVE FOR MANY CHOICES.

Quest outdoor fabric has both weights available.

jimmyb

Do you want the house wrap? Do you know anybuilders or framers? I have a 5' roll of the tyvek house wrap? How much do you need?

You have to love anything made from duct tape. Great job!

True duct tape love: Red Green! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b61f6bAuytw

Life got in the way and I lost track of this thread for awhile. I think starting with a 5'x10' piece would give me a good starting point for a one person tarp and eventually cut down to what I find comfortable. How much would that be?

Found this from Anti Gravity Gear: http://www.antigravitygear.com/shop/shelters-accessories/tyvek-ground-cloth-by-the-foot/

Seems reasonably cheap enough.

Into the Wind, a kite making site, sells 1443R Tyvek which is lighter and softer (particularly after washing) than the house wrap Tyvek. I use it as a groundsheet.

It is 40 gram per square meter, which works out to 33 grams per square yard if my math is correct. That compares to 54 grams per square yard for the house-wrap material. The 1443R material also has no printing on it (no Tyvek logo), which is not a big deal, but I think is nice.

It sells in 60″ wide sheets, in multiples of one yard (36″) long. So if you specify 3 as the quantity, you’ll get one continuous 60″ x 108″ sheet. That’ll run you $10.50 plus $6.00 shipping.

A little while ago, Amazon stocked the material, which was nice if you have a Prime membership, but they don’t at this time.

Why Tyvek? Cost? No MYOG sewing skills? Love Tyvek? Not a single thing available commercially will do? Have a 5×7 tarp I will gladly PIF to you if weight is of lower concern. Not that it is a brick mind you. I have to get it from the garage and will weigh it tomorrow.

You can still order the 1443R through Amazon, but not with Prime shipping, so no heaper than ordering from Into the Wind directly. http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B001TO4QVA/ref=dp_olp_new?ie=UTF8&condition=new

I've had it leak water as a groundsheet, though, after a few trips.