The material is remarkably durable and light. I have a 8.5 x 11 tarp from Z-Packs that I have used in the BWCA/Q several times.  Had over 5 years now and its holding up well, no issues so far.  I use as a ground cloth sometimes or to just cover gear and packs. Also use as a tarp in rain. Does not fray and is very easy to fix if it gets a hole, just use the cuben fiber repair tape-the info on the Z-Packs website is good (   (You need to Login or Register). The cuben fiber tape is also good for silnylon tent, sleeping bag repair-my most common use for the tape. If any complaints about the material for use as a tarp or tent its that its loud when being hit by rain or sleet. It is waterproof material, great for dry-bags in a canoe portage pack.