Frequently Asked
Questions

Measure the area you need to cover in length and width, then add 20–30cm on each side to allow for tie-down overlap. For a flat roof measuring 3m x 4m, order a 3.5m x 4.5m or 4m x 5m tarpaulin. Use our Tarpaulin Size Finder to instantly see every matching product across our full range.

We stock sizes from 1.2m x 1.8m up to 35m x 20m in our standard range. Custom cut sizes are also available — contact us on 01744 520 110 for a quote on any non-standard dimension.

Yes. We manufacture and cut tarpaulins to your exact specification. Custom sizing is available on most grades. Minimum order quantities may apply for very small runs — call us on 01744 520 110 or email sales@tarpaulinsuk.uk for a quick quote.

The size stated is the finished (hemmed) size after the hems and eyelets are added. The raw cut material is slightly larger. So a 3m x 4m tarpaulin will measure 3m x 4m edge-to-edge once hemmed.

Always size up rather than down. A tarpaulin that is too small will not seal edges or allow adequate tie-down. For covering a standard car, a 4m x 5m is the minimum recommended. For motorbikes, 2m x 3m is usually sufficient. Use the extra overlap to weight down edges and prevent wind lifting.

GSM stands for Grams per Square Metre — it measures how heavy and dense the fabric is. A higher GSM means a thicker, stronger, more durable tarpaulin. Economy tarps start around 70–110gsm. Heavy-duty industrial tarps run 300–500gsm. For most outdoor uses, 200gsm offers the best balance of durability and cost.

Choose based on your application: Economy (70–110gsm) — light temporary cover, camping, dust sheets. Medium Weight (140–200gsm) — garden furniture, vehicles, general outdoor storage. Heavy Weight (250–310gsm) — construction sites, agriculture, long-term outdoor use. PVC / Super Heavy (350gsm+) — lorry covers, industrial use, permanent outdoor installation.

Poly (polyethylene) tarpaulins are lightweight, waterproof and cost-effective — ideal for general outdoor storage. PVC tarpaulins are heavier, more durable, UV-stabilised and flame-retardant rated. PVC is the professional choice for haulage, construction and industrial applications where longevity is critical.

Yes, all our tarpaulins are 100% waterproof. They are manufactured from woven polyethylene or PVC with a waterproof laminate coating on both sides. Seams are heat-welded for a watertight bond. Every product is tested to withstand UK rainfall conditions.

Yes. All tarpaulins in our range are UV-stabilised to prevent degradation from sunlight exposure. Higher GSM grades have enhanced UV protection for extended outdoor use. For permanent or long-term outdoor installation, we recommend 250gsm or above.

Yes. We stock a dedicated Flame Retardant Tarpaulins collection, rated to BS EN 13501 standards. These are widely used in construction, events, film sets and public spaces where fire safety regulations apply. Contact us for specific FR certification documentation.

Tarpaulins are used across hundreds of applications including: construction site ground covers and scaffolding wraps, agricultural hay and equipment covers, vehicle and caravan covers, camping ground sheets and shelters, market stall roofing, lorry and flatbed trailer covers, garden furniture protection, pond liners, and temporary roof repairs. We supply MOD, NATO, construction firms, farms, local councils and sports clubs across the UK.

Yes — a 250gsm or higher tarpaulin is suitable for emergency roof covering during repairs. Ensure it overlaps the ridge by at least 1 metre on each side and is weighted or roped at all edges. For prolonged roofing use, a 350gsm+ PVC tarpaulin is recommended.

Yes. Our tarpaulins remain flexible and effective down to -20°C. PVC grades are particularly suited to winter use as they resist cracking in cold conditions. All tarpaulins are waterproof so they handle rain, snow and frost without issue.

Our standard poly tarpaulins can be used as temporary pond liners but are not specifically designed for that purpose. For a long-term pond liner we recommend our heavy-duty PVC range which is fully waterproof, UV resistant and available in custom sizes. Contact us for a bespoke pond liner quote.

Yes. Our PVC 350gsm and 500gsm tarpaulins are specifically manufactured for haulage use. They feature reinforced hems, heavy-duty metal eyelets at 1m intervals, and lockstitch edges to prevent fraying. We supply many UK hauliers — contact us for fleet pricing.

Lifespan depends on grade and conditions. Economy poly tarps typically last 1–2 seasons outdoors. Medium weight 200gsm tarps last 3–5 years with normal outdoor exposure. Heavy-duty PVC tarps (350gsm+) can last 7–10 years or more when properly maintained. All our tarpaulins include UV stabilisation to maximise outdoor lifespan.

All eyelets are rust-resistant metal, spaced every 1 metre around the perimeter. They are reinforced with double-welded patches on both sides of the hem to prevent pull-through under load. For extreme tension applications, additional lashing points can be added on custom orders.

Yes. All our tarpaulins are manufactured from synthetic polyethylene or PVC which is inherently rot-proof, mildew-resistant and chemical resistant. Unlike canvas tarps, they will not absorb moisture, rot or develop mould when stored damp.

Yes. All tarpaulins feature double-welded reinforced corner patches — the highest stress points when using tie-down ropes or bungee cords. The corners are at least double the thickness of the main body to prevent tearing under tension.

Yes. Our materials are tested to BS EN ISO 9001 standards. PVC flame-retardant grades are certified to BS EN 13501. We supply government departments, the MOD and NATO where material certifications are a procurement requirement. Certification documentation is available on request.

There is no minimum order quantity on our standard range — you can order a single tarpaulin of any size. Bulk and fleet discounts are available for orders of 10 or more units. Contact us for a trade pricing quote.

Yes. We offer trade accounts and volume discounts for businesses, contractors, councils, farms and other regular buyers. Contact us on 01744 520 110 or email sales@tarpaulinsuk.uk to discuss your requirements and receive a tailored trade quote.

All prices on the website are shown including VAT (20%). The VAT-exclusive price is also displayed on each product page. Trade customers registered for VAT will receive VAT-exclusive invoicing automatically.

Yes — we can provide material samples on request. Contact us with your requirements and we will arrange a sample cutting of the grade you are interested in. For most grades, samples are available free of charge on request.

Yes. We can arrange custom-printed tarpaulins with your logo or branding. This is typically available on PVC grades with minimum order quantities. Lead times for printed tarps are longer than standard stock. Contact us for a print specification and quote.

Orders placed before 2 PM Monday to Friday are dispatched the same day. Express delivery arrives in 1–2 working days. Standard delivery takes 3–5 working days. All deliveries are fully tracked — you receive a tracking link by email as soon as your order is collected by our courier. See our full Delivery Information page.

Yes, we deliver to all UK postcodes including Scotland, Northern Ireland, the Scottish Highlands and the Islands. Remote postcodes may incur a small additional surcharge. See our delivery zones page or contact us for a quote to your specific postcode.

Delivery is calculated at checkout based on the size and weight of your order and your delivery postcode. Costs vary between standard parcel rates and pallet rates for larger orders. To see your exact delivery cost, add your items to the basket and enter your postcode at checkout.

Yes — all orders are fully tracked from our warehouse to your door. You will receive an automated dispatch email containing your tracking number and a direct link to track your delivery in real time as soon as your order leaves our warehouse.

For light dirt, hose down with water and leave to dry before folding and storing. For heavy soiling, use a mild detergent with a soft brush — avoid abrasive pads or harsh chemicals which may damage the UV coating. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely before storing to prevent mould growth in storage.

Clean and dry the tarpaulin fully before storage. Fold loosely — avoid tight creases that weaken the material over time. Store in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing under heavy objects which may permanently crease the fabric.

Yes — small tears can be repaired using self-adhesive tarpaulin repair tape which is available in our accessories range. For larger repairs, waterproof repair patches are available. Apply to a clean dry surface and press firmly for a watertight bond. For major damage, replacement is usually more economical.

Use bungee shock cords (available in our accessories range) through the eyelets to secure the tarpaulin to anchor points. Space fixings every 0.5–1 metre around the perimeter. For very exposed locations, add a secondary rope line across the face of the tarpaulin for additional wind resistance.