Grommets Buying Guide
What grommets are the best?
The most common grommets are made from aluminum, solid brass, brass coated steel and stainless steel. Here are comparison of these materials. In general, solid brass grommets offer the best performance for most application while not too expensive.
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminum | Light weight Easy to set Corrosion resistant |
Not as strong as brass or stainless steel grommets |
| Solid Brass | Easy to set Strong and durable Corrosion resistant |
May corrode in salt water environment |
| Brass Coated Steel | Very strong and durable | May rust Hard to set due to hardness |
| Stainless Steel | Very strong and durable Corrosion resistant in most environment |
Expensive Hard to set due to hardness |
What tools do I need to install grommets on a tarp?
If you choose to use hand tool, you will need following tools to manually install grommets.
- Mallet - ideally a wooden mallet or a poly, leather, or rubber mallet. Avoid using a steel hammer because it is difficult to control.
- Grommet Hole Cutter
- Grommet Setting Dies
- Wood block base for support
MyTarp.com carries some inexpensive grommet tool kits under $10, which have all above tools and grommets and washers included. For heavier duty tools, please visit our Grommet Setting Tools section.
You could also use a Grommet Hand Press Machine for faster and easier operation. The grommet hand press machine is usually secured to a bench top or heavy table top. You will need appropriate size of Grommet Dies and Hole Cutter Plain 3-Piece Set for you Hand Press or Pneumatic Machines.
More Grommets Questions
If you have more grommets questions, please call MyTarp.com at 404-551-4347. We will be happy to help you.