Outdoor Equiopment, Can it Be Protected with Plastic Sheeting Outside?
Yes, plastic sheeting can be used to protect equipment outdoors—but not just any plastic will do. UV-resistant, heavy-duty poly sheeting is essential to withstand sun, wind, rain, and temperature changes without breaking down. The key is choosing the right grade and thickness for long-lasting outdoor performance.
When you need to protect valuable equipment from the elements, plastic sheeting offers a versatile and cost-effective solution. But here’s the catch—not all plastic sheeting is built to handle outdoor exposure. The wrong material can tear, degrade in sunlight, or trap moisture, potentially causing more harm than good.
Why Outdoor Equipment Needs the Right Protection
Outdoor environments are tough on materials. UV rays from the sun, heavy rain, fluctuating temperatures, and wind can all wear down equipment—and the sheeting that’s supposed to protect it. If you're covering construction tools, generators, industrial machinery, or even lawn equipment, you need a material that can go the distance.
What to Look for in Outdoor Plastic Sheeting
✅ UV Resistance
The sun’s ultraviolet rays are one of the top reasons standard plastic fails outdoors. UV-treated sheeting contains additives that block harmful rays and prevent the plastic from cracking, fading, or becoming brittle.
✅ Durability & Thickness
Go with a plastic sheeting that’s 6 mil or thicker for outdoor use. Thinner sheeting can tear in the wind or under tension, especially when covering angular equipment.
✅ Waterproofing
Ensure the sheeting is fully waterproof and has strong seam integrity. Water can seep in through low-quality seams or pinholes, potentially causing rust or mildew.
✅ Reinforced Options
Products like Ultra-Skrim feature reinforced layers that add tear resistance and stability—especially useful when the sheeting is exposed to high winds or frequent handling.
Top Outdoor Plastic Sheeting Options from Global Plastic Sheeting
🌞 Ultra-Skrim UV Resistant Poly Sheeting
-
Scrim-reinforced for strength
-
UV-inhibited for long-term outdoor exposure
-
Great for equipment covers, job sites, and weather enclosures
💪 Heavy-Duty Black Poly (6–10 Mil, UV Treated)
-
Light-blocking and weatherproof
-
Ideal for wrapping equipment, covering pallets, or long-term storage
-
Withstands sun, wind, and rain
🔒 Fire-Retardant Options
For equipment stored in public areas or near job sites, fire retardant plastic sheeting adds an extra layer of protection and compliance with safety standards.
Common Use Cases
-
Covering generators, compressors, and HVAC equipment
-
Wrapping pallets for long-term outdoor storage
-
Temporary job site protection during rain
-
Construction equipment staging areas
-
Emergency weather shielding
Final Thoughts
Yes, plastic sheeting can be used to protect equipment outdoors—but only if it's designed for that purpose. Choosing UV-resistant, heavy-duty material means your equipment stays protected longer, avoiding unnecessary repairs, damage, and downtime.
Looking for the right plastic sheeting to protect your equipment?
Contact Global Plastic Sheeting today to speak with a specialist and get the right material for your application—delivered fast and built to last.
