Specialising in high quality trailer covers

CoverIT  PVC versus Canvas Trailer Covers – Which is the Best?

 

CoverIT  PVC versus Canvas Trailer Covers – Which is the Best?

PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a coated polyester material which is created for the haulage sector, transport firms and other industries.

PVC covers can be made for all types of commercial or personal use trailers, from articulated vehicles to small caddy trailers.

Canvas is a heavy-duty, plain-woven fabric usually made from cotton or linen. 

Historically woven from hemp, it is occasionally blended with or made from synthetic materials. 

Canvas covers are sometimes referred to as tarps or tarpaulins.

Here at CoverIT we specialise in creating PVC custom fit, heavy-duty, all-weather vehicle trailer covers that fit perfectly.

With any product made from either man-made/manufactured material, there are pros and cons to each type.

Which you choose depend on your own trailer requirements.

PVC Trailer Covers

We create these to industry standard and you can find out more here.

PVC trailers are waterproof and weather proof (this includes protecting your trailer from wind, rain, sun, snow and ice).

PVC trailer covers are very long lasting if they are properly cared for and they don’t shrink or get ‘mildew’.

Bespoke trailer covers are resistant to tears, punctures and abrasions.

However they can trap heat and moisture and can be more tricky to fold.

There are some arguments about PVC being synthetic and non-biodegradable and therefore they have more impact on the planet

While PVC is synthetic, many of the UK businesses we use are working hard to reduce their carbon footprint in other ways.

Canvas Trailer Covers

Canvas trailer covers are breathable, allowing sir to circulate and tend to be easier to fold.

Many canvas covers are made from natural cotton or linen, however this does mean they are not necessarily water resistant and need waxing and re-waxing at regular intervals.

Canva trailer covers often look more appealing too.

CoverIT Waterproof Trailer Covers

The fabric we use is the same fabric that’s used by HGVs, but a slightly thinner version (610gsm compared to 900gsm).

CoverIT also uses rust proof solid brass eyelets, 8mm black shock cord, sews in continuous hems for ramp-gate trailers, and tarpaulin binding around ladder rack holes. 

Back and front opening covers also have Velcro® fastenings along with other features.

Our skilled team has a workshop near Scarborough, North Yorkshire, and they create each trailer cover to order.

You can see our easy to use trailer cover guide here.

 

handmade

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How Do I Order my Custom Made Water Proof Trailer Cover?

Trailers come in all shapes and sizes, and a bespoke, custom-made waterproof trailer cover will help protect yours.

A custom-built trailer cover can be made right here Yorkshire!

One of the key elements of a bespoke trailer is obtaining the correct measurements for your trailer. 

We have our easy to follow CoverIT trailer guide here:

Trailer cover guide

Some easy steps include: 

Looking for the chassis plate which is usually at the front of the trailer.

Chassis

Then check if your trailer has three short sides and then a larger tailgate at the rear.

This means you will need a ramp tailgate trailer cover.

Or, if your trailer has four short side then you’ll need a standard trailer cover.

Next you need to check if your trailer has a ladder rack fitted to the front of it or if it has a mesh kit fitted (four metal mesh sides).

If you have either of these, this will affect your trailer cover choice.

Another aspect to consider is if there are short, upright posts at the front corners of the trailer and which are taller than the mesh side.

If all this sounds a bit confusing, or you don’t have time to do these checks, CoverIT are only too happy to assist. 

You can also see our Terms and Conditions here.

Choice of Colours from CoverIT

PVC

Choose from blue, green or black

Every style of trailer cover is available in blue, green, and black, allowing your trailer to look smart and stylish while remaining protected from the elements.

To ensure your cover stays securely in place during transit, we’ve incorporated rust-proof solid brass eyelets along the hems and provided strong 8mm black shock cord as standard.

This heavy-duty shock cord comes in a single length, so you can easily cut it to your exact requirements for a perfect fit.

CoverIT trailer covers are designed with quality, durability, and user convenience in mind.

Continuous hems run around the entire trailer cover, whether you have a standard or ramp tailgate trailer, effectively tying together each side to reinforce the corners and enhance overall strength.

All ladder rack holes are finished with tarpaulin binding, which helps minimise wear if the cover rubs against metal posts while travelling.

For opening back or front covers, self-adhesive Velcro® is sewn securely down both edges, ensuring that the fastening remains reliable over time and does not come away.

Additionally, any open side edges feature tarpaulin binding along their length, providing extra protection against wear and tear.

These thoughtful design features mean your trailer cover not only looks great, but also delivers dependable performance every time you head out on the road.

Trailer Brands and CoverIT

CoverIT is based on the Yorkshire Coast and can create bespoke, waterproof trailer covers for a variety of well-known trailer brands.

These include Graham Edwards, Ifor Williams and Caddy.

Graham Edwards

This Yorkshire-based company manufactures 10 trailer types and over 50 standard models.

They create flatbed and livestock trailers along with general, plant, purpose, tipping, commercial and tractor drawn trailers. 

Graham Edwards also makes bespoke trailers to suit special requirements.

All trailers have full EU Type Approval.

Their Stamford Bridge site includes fabrication to assembly and finishing to sales.

The company was founded in 1985 and  moved to Stamford Bridge in 1994.

Ifor Williams

For commercial, domestic and leisure trailers, Ifor Williams makes flatbed, tipper and general duty models. 

There is also a car transport range used by garage owners and rally drivers.

In addition, Ifor Williams box vans are popular.

Ifor Williams livestock trailers are suitable for transporting items around the farm and they also create horsebox trailers.

Caddy Trailers

This brand is still popular and the company produced flat-pack, self-build trailer kits.

Their trailers are suitable for domestic and light usage and are of the approved EC Standard.

The company was based in Sheffield and is now closed, although Caddy trailers stand the test of time with many still on the road today.

Why Have A Cover For Your Trailer?

Whether you have one of these brands or another trailer manufacturer, here are some of the reasons your trailer needs a cover …

Weather

Protect your trailer from sun, rain, wind, snow.

Our waterproof cover will help keep your cargo safe.

Dust and Dirt

All trailers tend to attract dust particularly when in transit. 

Dust and dirt can scratch your trailer and might even affect your cargo: a trailer cover will help prevent this.

Safety

As well as keeping your cargo safe, a tailormade trailer cover will help prevent damage and even theft.

A covered trailer is a deterrent.

What Do I Need to Know About My Trailer When I Order My Cover?

You can read our handy trailer guide.

Things you need to know are what type of trailer and its size (you can find many of these on our website).

Does your trailer have mesh sides?

How many axles does your trailer have?

Other considerations are the framework and brakes. 

We can help so don’t worry! 

Vehicle Trailer Types in the United Kingdom

Vehicle trailers in in the United Kingdom vary in size, shape and capacity.

Choosing the right trailer for you is an important decision.

Taking care of your trailer once you’ve purchased it is also a crucial element to keeping it on the road.

A GD84 standard ramp

Popular Trailers

Open car trailers are popular due to their availability and affordability.

Most have a rear loading ramp, depending on the model, and are suitable for hatchbacks, saloon cards and small SUVs.

These include tilt bed and flatbed trailers.

Sometimes called tilt-deck, this type of trailer which pivots down towards the ground so creating a continuous ramp for loading. The deck tiles create a shallow ramp.

A flatbed is more suitable for heavier loads which have adequate ground clearance, and don’t need the lower loading angle.

Flatbeds use a separate fixed ramp and tend not to have any moving parts.

Loading can be done by a forklift or by adding a separate ramp.

Which do I Choose?

As a broad guide, an open twin-axle trailer of 4 to 5m and up to 2,100 kg would be suitable for most hatchbacks, and small SUVSs.

These are used widely for haulage and for towing smaller loads. 

Tilt-beds re often more suitable for other vehicles such as vehicle recovery or plan machinery. 

Towing Laws

You will also need to take into consideration when you passed your driving test.

If you got your licence before 1 January 1997

You can usually drive a vehicle and trailer with a combined weight of up to 8,250kg MAM. View your driving licence information to check.

You’re also allowed to drive a minibus with a trailer over 750kg MAM.

If you got your licence from 1 January 1997

You can tow a trailer that weighs up to 3,500kg MAM. This is known as a ‘category BE’ vehicle.

Your driving licence information shows which categories of vehicle you’re allowed to drive. View your driving licence information.

If you do not have ‘category BE’ on your physical driving licence, DVLA will add this the next time you renew your licence.

How to fit a bespoke trailer cover

A well-made, bespoke vehicle trailer cover can last between five to ten years if looked after properly. 

CoverIT makes each trailer cover using the finest quality materials mixed with expertise about waterproof, unique covers.

Factors which can affect your trailer cover include severe weather conditions, damage to the cover itself and depending if the trailer is fitted correctly.

Did you know that we use high quality 610gsm tarpaulin and then sewn using UV resistant thread that will not rot.

This type of PVC is able to resist UV light, tears and heavy rain.

Owners of bespoke trailer cover should ensure their cover is clean, keeping it free of standing water and check any bungee cords.

To fit your trailer cover, you should

Position the cover over the trailer.

Align any fastenings.

Pull any bungee loops into the correct position so they can be fixed to the trailer.

As we work closely with our customers, each trailer cover is unique and providing the correct measurements have been given, the trailer cover should be a perfect fit.

With our skilled team, our waterproof covers are easy to fit and we also pay attention to the finer details such as brass eyelets.

While many people see the bespoke covers as an investment, the cost, which is from as little as £39.95 plus VAT, is worth every penny.

Given trailers of any size are often expensive yet necessary, the benefits of having a waterproof trailer cover are many.

Caring For and Cleaning Your PVC Trailer Cover

With the change of season, your trailer cover also needs a bit of TLC before the colder weather arrives. 

A little routine care can help keep it clean, tidy and ready for continued use or storage.

GD84 standard ramp

If you’ve been using your CoverIT trailer cover this summer, here are some simple tips to help you look after IT!

Cleaning

  • Brush off debris: Use a soft brush to remove loose dirt, leaves and dust. Removing the dry debris makes the washing stage easier and helps prevent dirt from being rubbed across the surface.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals: Stay away from bleach, oxidising detergents or abrasive pads that can ruin the PVC coating. A gentle approach is needed.
  • Rinse with a hosepipe: Spray the cover with low-pressure water to wash away surface grime, paying attention to areas where dirt tends to collect.
  • Wash with mild soap: Mix warm water with a gentle soap or specialist cleaner. Work on smaller sections so you can clean and rinse each area thoroughly.
  • Scrub gently: Wipe the surface with a soft sponge or microfibre cloth, avoid scrubbing that can damage the material, especially around seams and fittings.
  • Rinse off the soap: Wash away all soap with clean water to prevent sticky build-up. Check the surface carefully so no cleaner is left behind.
P8e Mesh side cover for a solid ramp tailgate

Waterproofing

  • Understand PVC waterproofing: PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is waterproof and does not absorb water like canvas. However, it can lose its shine, attract dust and degrade at the seams over time
  • Apply a protective polish: Once the PVC is completely dry, apply a thin layer of household polish or a specialised PVC tarp protector. This creates a barrier that repels water, prevents dirt build-up and makes future cleaning easier,
  • Check and seal the seams: Carefully look at stitched seams, welds and eyelets. Look for tiny cuts, holes or worn areas that could become larger with continued use. Apply a specialised PVC liquid sealant or repair patch to any affected areas before they turn into leaks.

Drying and Storage

  • Air dry: Let the cover dry completely outdoors in a shaded area. Give seams and folded edges enough time to dry as well. Please do not use any heat or a machine dryer.
  • Fold neatly: Once completely dry, fold the cover without creasing it too tightly. Careful folding can also make it easier to unpack and use again later.
  • Store safely: Keep it in a cool, dry storage bag away from direct sunlight and sharp objects. Choose a clean storage area where the cover will not be crushed or punctured.
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