Buying a Tarp in the UK? Economy, Medium & Heavy Duty Tarps Compared

Buying a tarpaulin might seem simple until you’re faced with choices like economy, medium duty, or heavy duty tarps, plus terms like GSM, UV-treated, and waterproof coatings. Should you go cheap and replace often — or invest in a tougher tarp that lasts?

The truth is, your tarp choice matters. The right tarpaulin protects your gear, tools, or space effectively. The wrong one can tear, leak, or fail just when you need it most.

In the UK, where wet and windy weather is common, tarpaulin performance makes a real difference. Most shoppers choose between three main types:

• Economy Tarpaulins
• Medium Duty Tarpaulins
• Heavy Duty Tarpaulins

Let’s break them down by GSM rating, durability, best uses, and value — so you choose the perfect tarp for your project.

Explore our full tarpaulin range at Tarps UK Online

Understanding GSM: Why It Matters in Tarps

GSM stands for grams per square metre — a simple way to compare tarpaulins by fabric weight and density.

Think of GSM like paper thickness — flimsy vs. sturdy. A higher GSM means stronger, longer-lasting protection. If you need a tarp for a day at a festival or quick cover for garden furniture, 90–130 GSM will do the trick. For anything longer-lasting, you'll want to step up.

It’s also worth noting that while GSM gives a general indication of strength, the quality of construction, eyelets, and hemming also play a crucial role in real-world durability. A well-made medium-duty tarp might outperform a poorly constructed heavy-duty one.

Another factor is color. Darker tarps like green or black tend to absorb more heat and can help camouflage items, while lighter tarps like white or clear reflect light and provide better visibility. Choose based on your application and whether visibility or discretion is more important.

Economy Tarpaulins: Lightweight Covers for Quick Fixes

Best for: Budget tasks, DIY jobs, camping, or short-term outdoor use

Strengths:

• GSM: Approx. 90–130
• Lightweight, flexible, easy to carry
• Water-resistant and UV-treated
• Budget-friendly and ideal for temporary needs

Limitations:

• Tears easily under stress or wind
• Short lifespan (weeks to a few months outdoors)
• Not ideal for heavy rain or strong weather

Popular Uses:

• Covering garden furniture during light showers
• DIY paint sheet or dust cover
• Picnic or camping groundsheet
• Boot liner for muddy gear

Example:

Sarah, a DIYer, uses an economy tarp while painting her shed. It works great for the day, but she knows it won’t survive weeks outdoors.

When to choose:

Economy tarps are great if you need something fast, light, and inexpensive. Keep one in your boot or garage for emergencies. They're also handy for covering children's play equipment or bikes temporarily.

Medium Duty Tarpaulins: The Versatile All-Rounder

Best for: Seasonal covers, gardening, car protection, general home use

Strengths:

• GSM: 130–180
• Double-laminated and waterproof
• Rustproof eyelets & rope-reinforced hems
• Durable under moderate UK weather conditions

Limitations:

• Heavier and bulkier than economy tarps
• Won’t last years under constant stress

Popular Uses:

• Seasonal storage for furniture, tools, and bikes
• Allotment or compost heap protection
• Trailer or car covers
• Camping and festival shelters
• Temporary DIY roofing or wall covering

Example: James, an allotment owner, uses medium-duty tarps to cover crops. They hold up to rain and last for seasons.

When to choose: If you want a reliable tarp that lasts for multiple uses across the year, go medium-duty. It balances strength and value for money. It’s also ideal for covering kids’ play areas in autumn or protecting log piles through winter.

Heavy Duty Tarpaulins: Built for Harsh Weather & Long-Term Use

Best for: Construction, farming, marine, and industrial environments

Strengths:

• GSM: 200–250+
• Reinforced PVC or polyethylene materials
• Heat-sealed seams and UV protection
• Tear-resistant, windproof, and long-lasting

Limitations:

• More expensive upfront
• Bulkier to store and transport
• Often unnecessary for lightweight tasks

Popular Uses:

• Construction site covers (timber, scaffolding)
• Machinery & equipment protection
• Agricultural use (hay, feed, silage)
• Marine covers (boats, docks)
• Flatbed lorry covers or skips

Example: Emma, a contractor, uses heavy-duty tarps on-site to shield timber from weeks of rain and wind.

When to choose: Ideal when strength, waterproofing, and long-term performance are essential. Heavy-duty tarps are an investment — but one that saves you time and money in the long run.

Head-to-Head: Tarpaulin Comparison Chart

Buyer Match: Who Should Use What?

• Homeowners: Economy for DIY, Medium Duty for garden or tool storage
• Gardeners: Medium Duty for crops/tools, Clear Tarpaulins for light transmission
• Contractors: Heavy Duty for timber, Super Heavy for scaffolding
• Market Traders: Market Stall Tarpaulins for regular use, Clear Tarps for display visibility

Bonus Tip: Clear tarpaulins are perfect for polytunnels, greenhouses, or places where you want light without exposure.

If you're uncertain, think about how often you'll use the tarp and under what weather conditions. The more frequent and harsher the use, the stronger your tarp should be.

Value vs. Cost: When Paying More Saves You Money

Cheapest isn't always best. Over time, buying better saves money:

• Economy Tarp: £10 x 3 = £30/year
• Medium Duty Tarp: £20, reused = £20/year
• Heavy Duty Tarp: £40, lasts 3 years = £13/year

While the upfront price is higher, a heavy-duty tarp is often cheaper long-term if you’re covering valuable materials. Plus, the peace of mind that your tools, vehicles, or stock are protected is priceless for many users.

Tarpaulin Maintenance Tips

To extend tarp life:

• Always dry before folding to avoid mould
• Fold neatly to prevent cracking
• Store away from sunlight & heat
• Use bungee cords or tarp clips to reduce wind stress
• Check eyelets and hems regularly
• Avoid dragging tarps on rough ground

Proper maintenance means even a mid-range tarp can last far longer than expected.

Final Thoughts: Find the Right Tarp Today

Choosing the right tarpaulin depends on how long and how hard you need it to work:

• Economy Tarpaulins: Great for quick, affordable jobs
• Medium Duty Tarpaulins: Balanced protection & value
• Heavy Duty Tarpaulins: Maximum durability in tough conditions
• Clear Tarpaulins: For light & visibility
• Market Stall Tarpaulins: For daily trading protection

At Tarps UK Online, we stock a full range for every job and every budget. Shop now or contact our team for expert advice.

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