Buying a Tarpaulin: Complete Guide to Size, Material and Uses
, 13 min reading time
Choosing the right tarpaulin starts with three factors: size, material and intended use. Measure the object first and allow enough overhang to cover the sides and secure the sheet. A 90 g/m² PE tarpaulin is an option for flexible temporary use, while a reinforced 170 g/m² version is worth considering when you need reinforced material construction. For particularly large surfaces, a 15 × 12 m sheet may be more practical. Also check waterproofing, UV resistance, fixing eyelets and total weight. This helps you choose a tarpaulin suited to the actual dimensions and conditions.
What is a tarpaulin?
A tarpaulin is a flexible protective sheet used to temporarily cover building materials, machinery, vehicles, woodpiles and other surfaces. The three versions compared here are made from polyethylene (PE), are described as waterproof in their product information and feature metal fixing eyelets. Effective protection requires the correct size, sufficient overhang, secure attachment and positioning that allows rainwater to drain away.
Who should use a tarpaulin?
- Anyone covering building materials during construction or renovation.
- Anyone temporarily protecting machinery or vehicles.
- Anyone storing wood or other materials outdoors.
- Anyone needing to cover a large surface with one sheet.
- Anyone looking for flexible, removable protection.
When should you choose a tarpaulin?
A tarpaulin is practical when materials or objects need temporary protection from rain and dirt without installing a permanent structure. Common applications include renovation work, temporary storage and covering equipment. Protection depends on the material, fastening method, drainage and conditions of use. An ordinary tarpaulin is not automatically suitable as permanent roofing.
What should you consider when choosing a tarpaulin?
Dimensions and required overhang
Measure the object's length and width, as well as its height if you want to cover the sides. A sheet matching only the top surface may leave insufficient material for overhang and fastening. Compare individual dimensions rather than relying solely on total area in m².
Fabric weight and handling
Fabric weight in g/m² indicates how much the material weighs per square metre. This differs from the tarpaulin's total weight. A larger sheet with a lower fabric weight may be heavier overall and more difficult to handle than a smaller sheet with a higher fabric weight.
Material and construction
All three models use PE. The 170 g/m² model also has reinforced material construction. This matters if you specifically need a reinforced sheet, although comparable testing data is unavailable to establish how much stronger it is than the other versions.
Waterproofing and UV resistance
All three models are described as waterproof. UV resistance is explicitly specified for the 140 and 170 g/m² versions. This property has not been confirmed for the 90 g/m² model. Waterproof material also does not automatically prevent condensation or trapped moisture beneath the sheet.
Fastening and drainage
A tarpaulin must be secured appropriately. All three models have metal fixing eyelets, but the correct fastening method depends on the object and surroundings. Avoid unnecessary loose sections and prevent rainwater from collecting in low areas.
Use and maintenance
Consider whether you will regularly remove and reuse the sheet. Check that its dimensions are manageable and that you have enough space to clean, dry and store it. Regularly inspect the material and metal eyelets for damage.
Best tarpaulins: three models compared
These three tarpaulins have been selected for different applications. Their order does not represent an overall ranking of strength or lifespan. The best option depends on the object's dimensions, the required construction and how the sheet will be used.
1. Practo reinforced tarpaulin 170 g/m² – 10 × 4 m
This reinforced PE tarpaulin is particularly useful for long, narrow surfaces. Measuring 10 × 4 metres, it provides 40 m² of flat coverage. Its reinforced construction and metal fixing eyelets make it a practical option for covering building materials, machinery or stored timber when the dimensions are suitable.
It has the highest fabric weight in this comparison. However, this does not automatically make it the best choice for every application: shape, overhang and fastening remain important.
- Dimensions: 10 × 4 m.
- Area: 40 m².
- Fabric weight: 170 g/m².
- Total weight: 6.8 kg.
- Material: reinforced PE.
- Colour: white.
- Protection: waterproof, UV-resistant and tear-resistant according to the product information.
- Fastening: metal eyelets.
2. Practo tarpaulin 140 g/m² – 15 × 12 m
At 15 × 12 metres, this is the largest PE tarpaulin in the comparison, offering 180 m² of flat coverage. It is especially useful for extensive surfaces where one large sheet may be more practical than several smaller ones.
The black-and-blue design is reversible. Its large dimensions require sufficient space for spreading, fastening and storage. The total product weight is 25.2 kg.
- Dimensions: 15 × 12 m.
- Area: 180 m².
- Fabric weight: 140 g/m².
- Total weight: 25.2 kg.
- Material: PE.
- Colour: black/blue, reversible.
- Protection: waterproof and UV-resistant according to the product information.
- Fastening: metal eyelets.
3. Practo tarpaulin 90 g/m² – 8 × 8 m
This square PE tarpaulin is a lighter material option for flexible, temporary applications. It measures 8 × 8 metres, providing 64 m² of flat sheet material. According to the product information, it is intended for short- to medium-term use.
The green-and-blue design is reversible and includes metal fixing eyelets. Specific UV resistance has not been confirmed for this model, so choose it based on its stated characteristics and intended application.
- Dimensions: 8 × 8 m.
- Area: 64 m².
- Fabric weight: 90 g/m².
- Total weight: 5.8 kg.
- Material: PE.
- Colour: green/blue, reversible.
- Protection: waterproof and tear-resistant under normal use according to the product information.
- Fastening: metal eyelets.
Comparison: which tarpaulin suits your application?
| Model | Fabric weight | Total weight | Protection | Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reinforced tarpaulin 170 g/m² – 10 × 4 m | 170 g/m² | 6.8 kg | Waterproof, UV-resistant, tear-resistant | Long, narrow surfaces |
| Tarpaulin 140 g/m² – 15 × 12 m | 140 g/m² | 25.2 kg | Waterproof, UV-resistant | Very large surfaces |
| Tarpaulin 90 g/m² – 8 × 8 m | 90 g/m² | 5.8 kg | Waterproof, tear-resistant under normal use | Flexible temporary covering |
The stated protective properties come from the supplied product information. Comparable test data is unavailable for objectively ranking the three models by lifespan, wind resistance or tear strength.
Which tarpaulin is suitable for whom?
The reinforced 170 g/m² tarpaulin measuring 10 × 4 m suits long, narrow surfaces and users seeking reinforced PE construction. The 140 g/m² tarpaulin measuring 15 × 12 m is useful for very large surfaces when there is enough room to handle it. The 90 g/m² tarpaulin measuring 8 × 8 m suits flexible, temporary use where lighter material is preferred. Actual dimensions, overhang, fastening and product properties determine suitability in every case.
Frequently asked questions about tarpaulins
What size tarpaulin do I need?
Measure the object's length and width, and check its height if you also want to protect the sides. Allow extra material for overhang and fastening. Compare individual dimensions rather than just the area in m².
What is the difference between 90, 140 and 170 g/m²?
Fabric weight indicates how much the sheet material weighs per square metre. A higher fabric weight does not automatically mean a tarpaulin is stronger or better for every application. Size, construction and fastening also matter.
Is a PE tarpaulin completely waterproof?
All three PE models are described as waterproof in their product information. Protection of the covered object also depends on positioning, fastening and drainage. Waterproof material does not automatically prevent condensation.
How do you secure a tarpaulin against wind?
Use suitable attachment points and the tarpaulin's metal eyelets. Distribute tension and minimise loose sections. Check the fastening regularly; no specific maximum wind speeds have been confirmed for these models.
How to choose the right tarpaulin — and when not to use one
When a tarpaulin is unsuitable
An ordinary tarpaulin is not automatically suitable as permanent roofing, a load-bearing canopy or a substitute for a purpose-built protective structure. Applications involving particular load or safety requirements need a solution with demonstrably verified specifications.
When an oversized tarpaulin is unnecessary
A very large sheet may be excessive for a small object. Excess material can make fastening, removal and storage more difficult. Choose a size that provides adequate coverage without unnecessary surplus.
Common buying mistakes
- Looking only at square metres: the shape and individual dimensions must also fit.
- Forgetting overhang: sides and fastening require extra material.
- Confusing fabric weight with total weight: g/m² measures material weight per square metre.
- Assuming higher fabric weight is always better: intended use remains decisive.
- Underestimating fastening: an inadequately secured sheet may shift.
- Allowing water to collect: rainwater must be able to drain away.
Who should and should not use a tarpaulin?
A tarpaulin suits anyone needing flexible, removable protection for materials, machinery or temporary storage. It is less appropriate when permanent, structural or demonstrably wind-rated covering is required. Assess the intended use before selecting a product.
Choose the right tarpaulin in 10 steps
- Define the application: decide what the sheet will be used for.
- Measure the object: record length, width and relevant height.
- Calculate overhang: determine how much material is needed along the sides.
- Check the shape: compare length and width separately.
- Compare sizes: choose dimensions that adequately cover the object.
- Select fabric weight: assess 90, 140 or 170 g/m² for your application.
- Check properties: review confirmed waterproofing, UV resistance and reinforcement.
- Assess handling: check total weight and dimensions.
- Plan fastening: determine attachment points and how water will drain.
- Make your final choice: combine size, material, application and fastening options.
How should you maintain and store a tarpaulin?
- Clean after use: remove leaves, sand and loose dirt with water and, if needed, a soft cloth.
- Dry completely: check both sides before folding.
- Inspect for wear: look for tears, damaged edges and metal eyelets.
- Fold carefully: avoid trapping sharp objects between layers.
- Store dry: choose a clean storage space with sufficient room.
Why comparing product specifications helps
Comparing actual dimensions, fabric weight, total weight and confirmed protective properties helps you choose more precisely. Where information is missing or unclear, check the current product specifications rather than relying on assumptions.
What makes this comparison reliable?
This comparison uses concrete product characteristics, including dimensions, material, fabric weight, colour and fastening options. It distinguishes reinforced construction, an extra-large format and a lighter sheet intended for temporary use.
Confirmed properties are deliberately separated from specifications that still require checking. Missing total weights are not estimated, and UV resistance is only mentioned when stated for the particular model. Before buying, review the current product page and applicable ordering, delivery, returns and service terms.
Conclusion: which tarpaulin should you buy?
The right choice depends on dimensions, overhang and intended use. The reinforced 170 g/m² model measuring 10 × 4 m suits long surfaces. The 140 g/m² model measuring 15 × 12 m is useful for extensive coverage, while the 90 g/m² model measuring 8 × 8 m suits flexible temporary use. Explore the complete tarpaulin collection to find suitable dimensions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Size Tarpaulin Do I Need?
Measure the length and width of the object and check its height if you also want to protect the sides. Allow extra material for overhang and fastening. Compare the individual dimensions rather than just the total area in m².
What Is The Difference Between 90, 140 And 170 g/m²?
The fabric weight indicates how much the tarpaulin material weighs per square metre. A higher fabric weight does not automatically mean a tarpaulin is stronger or better for every application. Size, construction and fastening methods also matter.
Is A PE Tarpaulin Completely Waterproof?
According to the product information, all three PE models discussed are described as waterproof. The protection provided also depends on positioning, fastening and water drainage. Waterproof material does not automatically prevent condensation.
How Do You Secure A Tarpaulin Against Wind?
Use suitable attachment points and the tarpaulin's metal eyelets. Distribute tension evenly and minimise loose sections. Regularly check that the fastenings remain secure; no specific maximum wind speeds have been confirmed for these models.
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