Shrink wrap vs insulated tarps for winter scaffolding

Updated October 2026 · By GTA Tarping INC, Newmarket

Cost and reuse

Shrink wrap is heat-shrunk onto the frame and is generally cut off and discarded at the end of the job. Tarps can be taken down and reused on the next house or phase. On multi-lot programmes, reuse and speed of moving tarps between houses usually favour tarps.

Wind and snow

A properly shrunk wrap is taut and sheds wind and snow well while it stays intact; once torn, it needs patching. Tarps rely on good fastening, overlaps and a closed base, and need re-securing after strong winds. Either way, the enclosure adds wind load to the scaffold, so scaffold ties and bracing should be checked by the scaffold supplier.

Heat retention

Insulated tarps hold heat better than a single layer of plastic, which helps keep masonry at 5 °C for the 48 hours the Ontario Building Code requires. Single-layer shrink wrap and reinforced poly both rely more on heater output.

Access for masons

Masons need to move brick, block and mortar onto the scaffold. Tarps can be opened and closed at access points without cutting. Shrink wrap usually needs zippered doors or cuts that then have to be taped.

Which we recommend and why

For low-rise residential scaffolds, we install reinforced poly and insulated tarps because they're reusable, adjustable as the work moves, and give masons easy access. We match the material to each elevation's exposure and heat needs. If your project calls for a different enclosure, tell us in the quote request.

FAQ

Is shrink wrap warmer than tarps?

Not necessarily. Insulated tarps generally hold heat better than a single layer of shrink wrap.

Can tarps be reused?

Yes. Tarps can be taken down and reinstalled on the next house or phase.

Do tarps need maintenance?

Yes. After strong winds, tarps may need re-securing. That's part of our winter tarping service.

See winter scaffolding tarping. Related guide: What winter tarping costs in the GTA. Get a quote