How to Measure, Choose, and Secure a Tarpaulin Properly

A tarpaulin is one of the most versatile and practical covers you can own. From protecting garden furniture during winter to shielding construction materials on a busy site, the right tarp can save you from costly damage and unnecessary stress. Yet many people make the mistake of picking the first tarp they find without considering size, material weight, or how to fix it in place properly.

Getting it right requires three things: knowing how to measure your area accurately, understanding which type of tarpaulin suits your needs, and learning how to secure it so it stays in place no matter the conditions. This guide walks you through all three steps clearly and practically. Whether you are buying your first tarp or replacing an old one, you will find everything you need right here.

Looking for durable and reliable protection for your projects? Explore our full range of Tarps Uk and find the right cover for your needs, whether it’s for home, garden, or industrial use.

Types of Tarpaulins to Know Before Measuring

i) Economy Tarpaulins

Economy tarpaulins are lightweight, affordable, and ideal for short-term or light-duty tasks. They are typically made from polyethylene and are suitable for:

• Covering garden furniture during mild weather
• Temporary ground sheets for DIY projects
• Light storage protection in garages or sheds

These usually range from 70 GSM to 90 GSM and are easy to handle.

ii) Medium and Heavy Duty Tarpaulins

Heavy-duty tarpaulins are built for demanding environments. Starting from 120 GSM and going up to 200 GSM or beyond, they offer:

• Superior resistance to rain, wind, and UV exposure
• Long-term durability for construction sites and agricultural use
• Reinforced edges and eyelets for strong, reliable fixing

iii) Clear Tarpaulins

Clear tarpaulins allow light to pass through while still offering waterproof protection. They are perfect for:

• Greenhouses and growing areas
• Outdoor seating zones that need shelter without losing natural light
• Market stalls and temporary canopies

iv) Market Stall Tarpaulins

Market stall tarpaulins are designed for regular use in outdoor trading. They are reinforced, easy to set up, and built to cope with the demands of frequent assembly and disassembly.

From everyday home protection to heavy-duty industrial use, our Tarpaulins are designed to handle it all. Explore the full collection and find the right cover for your needs.

How to Measure Your Area Accurately

Getting the dimensions right is the most important step. A tarp that is too small will leave gaps, and one that is too large creates loose material that can flap, tear, or collect water.

i) Measuring for a Flat Cover

Follow these steps when covering a flat object or area such as a patio, vehicle, or materials pile:

• Measure the full length and full width of the object
• Add at least 30 cm to each side for overhang — this allows the tarp to drape down and stop water from running underneath
• If the object has height, measure that too and add it to both the length and width on each side

For example, if your materials pile is 2m long, 1m wide, and 0.5m tall, you'd need a tarp at least 3m x 2m to get proper coverage with overhang.

ii) Measuring for a Sloped or Roof Cover

For sloped surfaces such as a shed roof or lean-to:

• Measure the ridge length from one end to the other
• Measure the full slope distance from the peak down to the eave on both sides
• Add an overhang allowance at the bottom to direct water away from the structure

iii) Before You Order: Key Measuring Tips

• Always measure twice before ordering
• Use a steel tape measure for accuracy rather than a fabric tape
• Account for folds or tucks if the tarp needs to wrap around objects
• Note that tarpaulin dimensions refer to the cut size; the finished size after hemming may be slightly smaller

Choosing the Right Tarpaulin

Once you have your measurements, match the tarp to the task and the environment it will face. The right GSM rating and material make a significant difference to how long a tarp performs.

Understanding GSM

GSM — grams per square metre — is the most reliable indicator of durability:

Once you know your dimensions, match the tarp to the task. The wrong choice can mean a cover that deteriorates quickly or fails under pressure.

ii) Match the Tarp to Your Environment

• High wind areas require heavy, well-secured tarps with reinforced eyelets
• Constant rain or damp conditions call for fully waterproof polyethylene or PVC materials
• Agricultural use benefits from UV-stabilised tarps that resist sun degradation
• Indoor or decorative use may only need an economy-grade sheet

Not sure whether polypropylene or polyethylene is the right material for your conditions? The two are often confused, but they perform very differently when it comes to waterproofing, UV resistance, and long-term outdoor durability. Our full comparison of polypropylene vs polyethylene tarps will help you choose with confidence.

iii) Quick Reference by Task

• Garden furniture cover: Economy or medium duty, standard sizes
• Roofing emergency or construction site: Super heavyweight tarpaulin
• Market stall: Specialist market stall tarpaulin with full waterproofing
• Decorating and DIY: Dust sheets for floor and furniture protection

How to Secure a Tarpaulin So It Stays Put

A tarpaulin that is not properly secured is a liability. Loose tarps can blow away, tear along the eyelets, or allow water to pool and penetrate underneath.

Ropes

Polypropylene and nylon ropes are the most widely used options. Thread rope through the eyelets and tie to anchor points using a bowline or clove hitch. For outdoor use, choose UV-resistant rope to prevent degradation over time.

Bungee Cords and Tarp Clips

Bungee balls and tarp clips provide a quick, tool-free method that's ideal for:

• Covering vehicles or boats in a hurry
• Temporary event or market stall setups
• Any situation where the tarp needs to come on and off regularly

Web Fittings and Buckles

For permanent or semi-permanent installations, cam buckles, ladderlocks, and side release buckles provide a firm, adjustable hold. These are standard in haulage, construction, and agricultural settings where tarps take serious strain.

The Rules That Prevent Failures

• Use every eyelet — skipping any creates uneven tension and weak points
• Distribute load evenly across all fixing points to prevent tearing
• Check and retighten fixings after the first 24 hours, particularly in wet or windy conditions
• Never leave excess tarp loose — fold and tie off any slack to stop flapping and water pooling

Maintenance: Making Your Tarp Last

A properly maintained tarpaulin lasts significantly longer and performs reliably season after season.

• Dry before storing — folding a damp tarp promotes mould and mildew that degrade the material
• Clean with mild soapy water and a soft brush — harsh chemicals break down waterproof coatings
• Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight when not in use
• Inspect eyelets and edges regularly for cracking, wear, or rust — catching damage early prevents it from spreading.

FAQs

Q. Can I use an economy tarpaulin outdoors in winter?

Economy tarps can handle mild conditions, but they're not built for prolonged exposure to heavy rain, frost, or strong wind. For anything beyond a sheltered spot or a short-term cover, step up to medium or heavy duty.

Q. Do tarpaulins come with ropes or fixings included?

Most come with reinforced eyelets but not ropes or cords. You'll need to buy fixing accessories separately — it's worth doing this before you need them rather than after a storm has already moved in.

Q. Is the cut size the same as the finished size?

No. The cut size is before hemming, so the finished tarp will be slightly smaller. Always measure generously and factor in this difference when ordering.

Q. Can a tarpaulin work as an emergency roof cover?

Yes — a heavy-duty or super heavyweight tarp can provide reliable temporary protection for a damaged roof. Secure it tightly with rope through every eyelet and ensure enough overhang for proper water drainage.

Conclusion

Choosing the right tarpaulin becomes much easier when you understand your needs and the conditions it will face. From accurate measuring to selecting the right GSM rating and securing it properly, each step plays an important role in ensuring long-lasting performance.

By following the right approach, you can avoid common mistakes and get a tarpaulin that offers reliable protection in any situation. Whether for home, garden, or professional use, the right choice will always save time, effort, and cost in the long run.