Why Quality Infield Tarps Are a Game-Changing Investment
Since 1999, we at BaseballTips.com have seen one truth repeated season after season: programs that protect their baseball diamonds with quality infield tarps consistently outperform those using makeshift solutions or nothing at all. The difference isn’t just in field appearance—it directly impacts player performance, maintenance costs, and schedule reliability.
As former coaches who’ve managed baseball facilities, we’ve learned that “good and cheap do not go together” when it comes to field protection. That blue tarp from the hardware store weighted down with concrete blocks might seem economical, but it’s actually costing your program in ways you might not realize.
A proper infield tarp is more than just a rain cover—it’s essential infrastructure that protects your biggest investment: your playing surface. The right tarp system prevents rainouts, reduces maintenance hours, extends the life of your infield material, and creates consistent playing conditions that benefit player development.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about selecting, using, and maintaining baseball infield tarps. Drawing on decades of experience supplying equipment to programs from Little League to the pros, we’ll help you understand the critical differences between various options and guide you toward a solution that balances quality, durability, and budget.
Whether you’re looking to replace an aging tarp, upgrade from makeshift solutions, or outfit a new facility, this guide will help you make an informed decision that provides lasting value for your program.
The True Cost of Inadequate Field Protection
Before diving into tarp options, let’s consider what’s at stake with inadequate protection:
Material Loss and Replacement: Unprotected infields lose expensive clay and conditioning materials with every heavy rain. Over time, this material must be replaced—often at thousands of dollars per application.
Labor Hours: Field crews spend countless hours repairing rain damage that could be prevented with proper tarping. These hours represent a significant hidden cost.
Schedule Disruptions: Rainouts and delays impact more than just game day—they disrupt practice schedules, create logistical challenges, and can even affect player development over a season.
Player Safety: Inconsistent playing surfaces created by weather damage increase injury risks. Proper protection ensures more consistent, safer playing conditions.
Competitive Disadvantage: Teams with well-protected fields gain more practice time, face fewer disruptions, and enjoy more consistent playing conditions—all factors that contribute to program success.
Now that we understand what’s at stake, let’s examine the key factors to consider when selecting an infield tarp for your program.
Types of Infield Tarps: Finding Your Perfect Match
Full Infield Tarps
Covering the entire infield from grass edge to grass edge, these large baseball tarps provide complete protection for the most critical area of your field. We recommend weighted vinyl covers rather than standard plastic tarps, as they resist tearing, provide better coverage, and last significantly longer. These are the gold standard for complete field protection and are available in various weights and materials depending on your needs and budget.
Home Plate Covers
Specialized covers designed specifically to protect the batter’s box and catcher’s area—zones that receive the most foot traffic and are most vulnerable to damage. These are essential for maintaining consistent batter footing and preventing the formation of holes and low spots.
Pitcher’s Mound Covers
Circular or rectangular covers designed to protect the mound—one of the most carefully crafted areas of any baseball field. Quality mound covers prevent water penetration that can undermine mound integrity and alter pitching conditions.
Base Area Covers
Individual covers for base areas that protect the high-traffic zones around first, second, and third base. These targeted solutions are excellent for programs with limited storage space or smaller crews.
Material Quality: The Difference Maker
Not all tarps are created equal. The material quality directly impacts durability, weight, water resistance, and ultimately, value:
Standard Polyethylene Tarps
Entry-level option that provides basic protection but typically lacks durability for regular baseball use. These lightweight options are easier to deploy but prone to tearing and typically have a shorter lifespan.
Reinforced Polyethylene
Mid-range option with reinforced edges and grommets that provide improved durability. These offer a balance of affordability and function but still may require replacement after a few seasons of heavy use.
Weighted Vinyl Tarps
Professional-grade option featuring heavier materials (18 oz. and up) with weighted edges that prevent wind lift. These premium options represent a “buy it once” investment that typically lasts 7-10 years with proper care, making them the most economical choice long-term despite higher initial cost.
Specialized Materials
Some premium tarps feature UV protection, additional mildew resistance, or specialized breathable sections. These features can significantly extend tarp life and performance in specific climate conditions.
Key Selection Factors: Beyond Basic Measurements
When helping programs select the right tarp system, we consider several critical factors:
Climate Considerations
Programs in regions with frequent rain events need heavier materials with superior water resistance, while those in high-wind areas benefit from weighted edges and wind vents. UV protection becomes essential in southern regions with intense sunlight.
Crew Size and Storage
The size of your maintenance crew and available storage directly impact which tarp system is practical. Full infield tarps require more hands and storage space than individual position covers.
Deployment Speed Requirements
How quickly do you typically need to cover your field? Programs that frequently deal with sudden storms benefit from lighter, easier-to-deploy options, possibly sacrificing some durability for speed.
Budget Reality vs. Long-Term Value
While we advocate for quality, we understand budget constraints. Sometimes a strategic combination of covers (premium protection for home plate and mound with standard covers elsewhere) can provide the best balance of protection and affordability.
Our Most Popular Infield Tarp Options
Based on decades of feedback from programs at all levels, these are the tarp solutions that consistently deliver the best results:
Premium Field Protection: Heavy-Duty Weighted Vinyl Covers
The preferred choice for college and professional programs, these 18oz or heavier vinyl tarps with weighted edges provide superior protection, wind resistance, and typically last 7-10 seasons with proper care. The initial investment of $2,000+ is offset by longevity and reduced field maintenance costs.
Mid-Range Solution: Reinforced Standard Tarps with Proper Accessories
For programs balancing quality and budget, reinforced polyethylene tarps paired with proper securing accessories offer good protection at a more accessible price point. While requiring replacement more frequently than premium options, they provide significantly better protection than hardware store alternatives.
Budget-Conscious Option: Position-Specific Coverage System
Rather than compromising on a low-quality full infield tarp, many programs with tight budgets find greater success investing in quality protection for critical areas (mound, home plate) while developing a long-term plan for complete coverage.
Essential Accessories: Completing Your Field Protection System
A complete tarp system includes more than just the covers themselves:
Tarp Pins and Stakes
Proper securing prevents wind damage and ensures complete protection during storms. Quality stakes make deployment faster and more secure.
Storage Rollers
Proper storage significantly extends tarp life and makes deployment easier. Storage solutions range from simple roller tubes to sophisticated mechanical systems for larger facilities.
Handling Straps
Specially designed straps make deployment faster and reduce strain on maintenance crews, especially important for programs with smaller staffs.
Patching Kits
Even the best tarps eventually need repairs. Having proper patching materials extends tarp life and maintains protection integrity.
Ready to Protect Your Investment?
Contact our team of former coaches and field managers for personalized recommendations based on your specific field conditions, maintenance capabilities, and budget reality. Call us at 1-800-487-7432 (Monday-Friday, 10am-7pm EST) or request a custom quote online.
Tarp Maintenance: Extending Your Investment
Proper maintenance can double the lifespan of even standard tarps:
Cleaning Protocol
Regular cleaning prevents mildew and degradation. We recommend gentle cleaning with approved solutions that won’t compromise material integrity.
Proper Drying
Never store tarps wet—this single practice dramatically extends tarp life by preventing mold growth and material breakdown.
Storage Best Practices
Proper rolling/folding techniques and storage location considerations keep tarps in optimal condition during off-seasons.
Seasonal Inspection
Regular checks for small tears or weak points allow for timely repairs before catastrophic failures occur.
Frequently Asked Questions About Infield Tarps
How many people do we need to deploy a full infield tarp?
For standard 170′ x 170′ full infield tarps, we recommend a minimum of 6-8 people for safe, effective deployment. Smaller programs often use position-specific covers that can be managed by 1-2 people if full-crew deployment is challenging.
How long should a quality infield tarp last?
Premium weighted vinyl tarps typically last 7-10 seasons with proper care. Reinforced polyethylene options generally provide 3-5 seasons of reliable service. Basic lightweight tarps may need replacement after 1-2 seasons of regular use.
Can we repair tears in our existing tarp?
Yes, most tarps can be effectively repaired with the proper materials. Small repairs can extend tarp life significantly, though extensively damaged tarps may eventually need replacement for proper protection.
Is it better to get one full infield tarp or separate position covers?
This depends on your specific situation. Full infield tarps provide more complete protection but require more storage space and deployment personnel. Position covers offer targeted protection with easier handling but leave more surface exposed to weather. Many programs start with position covers and gradually upgrade to full protection.
How quickly will we see ROI on a premium tarp?
Most programs report seeing return on investment within 2-3 seasons through reduced material replacement costs, decreased maintenance hours, and fewer scheduling disruptions. The exact timeline varies based on your local weather patterns and previous protection methods.
What Baseball Programs Say About Our Tarps
“After years of fighting with hardware store tarps, we invested in a proper weighted vinyl system. The difference is night and day—faster deployment, better protection, and dramatic reduction in rain-related maintenance. Should have done this years ago.”
— High School Baseball Coach, North Carolina
“Our limited budget meant we couldn’t do everything at once. BaseballTips.com helped us prioritize protecting our mound and home plate area with quality covers first, which gave us the biggest immediate impact while we saved for full infield protection.”
— College Assistant Coach, Midwest
“The weighted edges make all the difference during our windy spring season. No more chasing tarps across the field or constantly re-securing them. Well worth the investment.”
— Field Manager, Youth Baseball Complex
Protecting Your Diamond for Long-Term Success
Investing in quality infield tarps is one of the most impactful decisions a baseball program can make for long-term field quality and program success. The right protection system not only preserves your playing surface but also enhances practice consistency, reduces maintenance costs, and increases scheduling reliability.
At BaseballTips.com, we understand that every program has unique needs and constraints. That’s why we offer options across different price points while still maintaining our commitment to quality and durability. Our team of former coaches and players is ready to help you find the perfect solution for your specific situation.
Remember our core philosophy: “Good and cheap do not go together” when it comes to field equipment. The right investment now pays dividends for seasons to come, while cutting corners often leads to increased costs and frustrations down the road.
Ready to take your field protection to the next level? Contact our expert team today for personalized recommendations and quotes tailored to your program’s specific needs.
Get Expert Advice on Infield Tarps
Contact our team of former coaches and field managers for personalized recommendations based on your specific field conditions, maintenance capabilities, and budget reality.
Call us at 1-800-487-7432 (Monday-Friday, 10am-7pm EST) or request a custom quote online.
Get Your Personalized Tarp Recommendation
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