Tarpaulins: Your ultimate protection solution for any project
A tarpaulin is a large, flexible sheet of strong, waterproof material, often made from polyethene, canvas, or vinyl. They are typically used to cover and protect objects from weather conditions such as rain, snow, and sun. Their robust design makes them suitable for a variety of applications:
- Construction sites: Builders rely on tarpaulin to keep materials, tools, and machinery dry and safe from dirt and weather. They can also help contain debris or create temporary barriers.
- Home and garden protection: For homeowners, tarpaulins can cover outdoor furniture, grills, and gardening tools. This helps prevent rust, fading, or other weather-related damage.
- Vehicle and boat cover: If you have a car, motorcycle, or boat sitting outside, a tarpaulin can protect it from rain, sun, and snow, preventing wear and tear.
- Camping and outdoor use: A tarpaulin is a great tool for campers. They work great as shelters, ground covers to keep things dry, or even as rain covers over tents.
- Farming and agriculture: Farmers use them to cover hay, animal feed, and machinery, offering protection against rain and UV damage, which can degrade these resources over time.
What to consider when buying a tarpaulin
When choosing a tarpaulin, it's important to consider several factors to ensure you get the right protection for your needs. Start by thinking about what you plan to use the tarpaulin for — whether it's covering outdoor furniture, protecting construction materials, or creating temporary shelter.
Next, consider the size you need. A tarpaulin that's too small won't provide enough coverage, while one that's too large may be difficult to handle. Then, decide whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option for light use or a high-quality tarpaulin with specific features like UV resistance, waterproofing, or reinforced edges for long-term, heavy-duty protection.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose a tarpaulin that best fits your project and ensures reliable coverage.
Pick the ideal weight for the job
Tarpaulins come in various weights and thicknesses, which are typically measured in grams per square meter (GSM). This measurement indicates the tarp's density and overall durability—the higher the GSM, the thicker and stronger the tarp.
Light-duty tarpaulins (70–100 GSM):
These are lightweight and ideal for temporary use, such as covering items during a short rainstorm, protecting garden furniture, or using ground covers during camping. They’re easy to handle and store but aren’t designed for heavy wear and tear.
Medium-duty tarpaulins (100–200 GSM):
Offering a balance between flexibility and durability, medium-duty tarps are suitable for longer-term outdoor use, like covering construction materials, boats, or vehicles. They provide decent resistance to wind and rain without being too heavy to manage.
Heavy-duty tarpaulins (200–300 GSM):
These are built for tough conditions and can withstand harsh weather, abrasions, and extended outdoor exposure. They’re great for industrial work, agriculture, or protecting equipment on construction sites.
Super heavy-duty tarpaulins (300+ GSM):
Designed for the most demanding applications, these tarps are extremely thick and durable. They’re commonly used in industrial and commercial settings where maximum protection is needed, such as in trucking, farming, or covering large machinery.
Pick up your tarpaulin within 2 hours
Need your tarpaulins as soon as possible? Order your tarpaulin online and pick it up at your local Biltema store within 2 hours if it’s in stock. Quick, convenient, and hassle-free. Please note that we currently do not offer home delivery or external pickup options.
FAQ
How long does tarpaulin last?
The lifespan of a tarpaulin depends on its material and usage. Light-duty tarps may last 1–2 years, while heavy-duty or vinyl tarps can last 5+ years with proper care and minimal exposure to harsh weather.
How durable is tarpaulin?
Tarpaulin durability varies by type. Polyethylene tarps are lightweight and good for short-term use, while canvas and vinyl tarps offer superior strength, resisting tears, abrasions, and harsh weather for heavy-duty applications.
Is tarpaulin completely waterproof?
Most polyethene and vinyl tarps are 100% waterproof, offering excellent protection from rain and snow. Canvas tarps are water-resistant but not fully waterproof, as they allow some moisture through to prevent condensation.
Which tarpaulin is best for a boat?
A moulded boat tarpaulin is usually the best option to protect a boat. However, you can also use a regular tarpaulin as a protective cover for your boat.
What colours do tarpaulins come in?
The most common tarpaulin colours are green, blue, and silver. Less common are tarpaulins in yellow, red or other colours.
How do I attach the tarpaulin?
A tarpaulin should preferably be attached using flexible rubber straps and rubber rope, to protect the eyelets.
