The Complete Guide to Tarpaulins: Types, Uses & How to Choose the Right One
Whether you're protecting materials on a building site, covering a vehicle, shielding agricultural produce or setting up a market stall, the right tarpaulin makes all the difference. But with dozens of weights, materials and sizes available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This complete guide covers everything you need to know.
What Is a Tarpaulin?
A tarpaulin — commonly shortened to "tarp" — is a large, flexible sheet of strong, water-resistant or waterproof material. The word comes from "tar" (used on old cloth covers) and "palling" (a covering). Modern tarpaulins are typically made from woven polyethylene (PE), PVC-coated fabric, or natural materials like canvas cotton.
They are used across virtually every industry — construction, agriculture, logistics, events, camping and garden — thanks to their combination of durability, low cost and weather resistance.
Main Types of Tarpaulin
1. Polyethylene (PE) Tarpaulins — The Most Common Type
PE tarpaulins are made from woven high-density polyethylene fabric, usually coated on both sides. They're lightweight, affordable and available in a huge range of sizes. They come in weights from 60gsm (economy) up to 270gsm (super heavy duty). These are the classic blue, green or silver tarps you see on roofs, market stalls and construction sites.
2. PVC Tarpaulins — Industrial Strength
PVC tarps are coated with polyvinyl chloride, giving them exceptional strength, UV resistance and longevity. Weighing from 400–600gsm, they're used in commercial lorry sides, industrial covers, machinery protection and long-term outdoor storage. They cost more than PE tarps but last significantly longer.
3. Canvas Tarpaulins — Natural, Breathable, Premium
Canvas tarps are made from woven cotton treated with wax or oil for water resistance. Unlike synthetic tarps, canvas breathes — preventing condensation build-up underneath. They're the premium choice for protecting vehicles, boats, fine woodwork or anything sensitive to moisture trapped beneath a non-breathable cover. Our canvas tarpaulins are available in 18oz heavyweight waxed cotton.
Understanding GSM: The Most Important Spec
GSM (grams per square metre) determines the weight and durability of a tarpaulin. Here's a quick reference guide:
| GSM Range | Category | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 60–90gsm | Economy / Light | Short-term use, dust covers, temporary protection |
| 100–140gsm | Light–Medium | Garden furniture covers, camping, casual outdoor use |
| 150–180gsm | Medium Weight | Market stalls, agriculture, semi-permanent covers |
| 190–220gsm | Heavy Duty | Building sites, scaffolding, machinery, long-term outdoor |
| 230–270gsm | Super Heavy Duty | Industrial, lorry covers, high-impact protection |
| 400–600gsm | PVC Grade | Commercial vehicle sides, permanent installations |
Rule of thumb: if the cover will be left outside for more than a few weeks, go one GSM grade heavier than you think you need.
Tarpaulin Materials: Key Differences
Polyethylene vs PVC vs Canvas
| Property | PE Tarpaulin | PVC Tarpaulin | Canvas Tarpaulin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 60–270gsm | 400–600gsm | 500–700gsm |
| Waterproof | Yes | Yes (superior) | Water resistant |
| UV resistance | Moderate | Excellent | Good |
| Breathability | No | No | Yes |
| Lifespan | 1–5 years | 5–15 years | 5–20 years |
| Cost | Low | High | High |
Common Uses for Tarpaulins
Construction & Building Sites
Heavy duty tarpaulins are essential on construction sites for protecting materials from rain and frost, covering scaffolding, creating temporary shelters and dust containment. A minimum of 170gsm is recommended for site use — our heavy weight tarpaulins start at 170gsm and go up to 270gsm.
Agriculture & Farming
Farmers use tarpaulins to cover silage clamps, hay bales, grain stores and machinery. Agricultural tarpaulins need to be heavy, UV-stabilised and large — bulk sizing and custom cuts are common requirements.
Events, Markets & Festivals
Market traders rely on tarpaulins as canopy covers, side screens and ground sheets. A 170gsm medium-weight tarpaulin is typically sufficient for stall use, with clear PVC options available for enclosed stall fronts.
Garden & Outdoor Storage
Covering garden furniture, barbecues, log piles and outdoor equipment through winter. Medium weight tarps (120–170gsm) are ideal for this use case and available in a range of colours including green, blue and silver.
Transport & Haulage
Heavy PVC tarpaulins are used as lorry curtainsiders and flatbed covers. These need to meet specific load-securing regulations and are typically 570gsm PVC.
Choosing the Right Size
Always measure your item and add at least 30cm (12 inches) on each side for adequate coverage and tie-down allowance. For ground sheets, add 15–20cm per side to allow the edges to tuck under. See our full tarpaulin size guide for specific recommendations by use case.
Key Features to Look For
When buying a tarpaulin, check these four things: eyelets (should be rust-proof aluminium or brass, spaced every 50–100cm); reinforced edges (look for heat-welded or hemmed borders, not just raw edges); UV stabilisers (essential for outdoor use — look for "UV stabilised" in the spec); and rope thickness (3mm bungee is fine for light use, 6mm+ for industrial securing).
Tarpaulin Colours: Does It Matter?
Colour isn't purely cosmetic. Blue tarpaulins are the most common all-purpose option and highly visible. Green blends into garden and agricultural settings. Clear/transparent tarps allow light through — ideal for market stalls or greenhouses. White reflects heat — useful for summer storage. Dark colours absorb heat and degrade faster in UV light.
Where to Buy Tarpaulins in the UK
Tarpaulins UK supplies the full range — from 60gsm economy covers to 570gsm PVC commercial tarps — with next-day delivery across the UK. Browse our full range of tarpaulins or call us on 01744 520 110 for advice on the right product for your specific application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a tarp and a tarpaulin?
They are the same thing — "tarp" is simply the common shortened form of "tarpaulin". Both terms refer to the same waterproof or water-resistant protective sheet.
What GSM tarpaulin do I need?
For light/occasional use, 100–140gsm. For regular outdoor use, 150–180gsm. For construction or industrial use, 190–270gsm+. Read our full GSM guide for detailed recommendations.
How long does a tarpaulin last?
A quality 170gsm+ PE tarpaulin will last 2–5 years outdoors. PVC tarps last 5–15 years. Canvas tarps can last 10–20 years with proper care. Economy 60–90gsm tarps are designed for short-term use only.
Are tarpaulins completely waterproof?
PE and PVC tarpaulins are fully waterproof. Canvas tarpaulins are water-resistant (they manage moisture without pooling) but not technically waterproof. For standing water or heavy rain, choose a PE or PVC tarpaulin of 150gsm+.