How to measure a tarpaulin: step-by-step guide

A made-to-measure tarpaulin starts with accurate measuring. A few centimetres can make the difference between a tarpaulin that fits snugly and one that hangs too loose. This guide shows you how to measure a tarpaulin correctly in four steps, plus a few tips to avoid common mistakes.

Step 1: Work out the right dimensions

Measure the length and width of the surface you want to cover. Always measure at the longest and widest points and write the measurements down in centimetres. Ideally, measure twice to avoid mistakes, and for an irregular shape, measure at several points.

Step 2: Allow for overlap

Do you want the tarpaulin to hang over the edges, for example when covering a load or a pallet? Then add the overlap you want on each side to your measurements. For a tightly tensioned tarpaulin, for example in a frame, measure exactly instead. Always state clearly whether your measurements are the overall size (including overlap) or the exact net size.

Step 3: Choose where the eyelets go

Eyelets determine how you fasten the tarpaulin. As standard we fit eyelets every 50 cm, but you can choose the spacing yourself. Keep at least 3 to 5 cm from the edge, so the fabric around the eyelets does not tear. Tell us where you want to tie the tarpaulin down and we will put the eyelets in the right positions.

Step 4: Specify the finish

Tell us which finish you want: reinforced hems, ratchet straps, a zip or a hook-and-loop edge. Not sure which finish suits your application? Read our guide to types of tarpaulin or ask us for advice.

Common mistakes when measuring a tarpaulin

Most mistakes come from measuring too tightly, forgetting the overlap, or giving a rounded figure instead of the actual measurement. Always measure the height too if the tarpaulin goes over a curved or raised surface; a measurement taken flat will then come out too short. If in doubt, it is better to err on the generous side than to measure too tight.

Which finish suits your tarpaulin?

The finish determines how easy the tarpaulin is to use and how long it lasts. For a tarpaulin you fasten often, choose reinforced eyelets and ratchet straps. For a tarpaulin that closes off a space, for example on a trailer, a zip or hook-and-loop fastening works well. We are happy to advise you on the combination that will last longest.

Example: how to measure a trailer for a cover

Measure the internal dimensions of the trailer bed (length x width) and decide how far the cover needs to hang over on each side to tie it down, usually 15 to 25 cm. Add that overlap on both sides to the internal dimensions. Specify the eyelet positions based on your tie-down points. That way you get a snug-fitting trailer cover.

Not sure how to measure a tarpaulin yourself? We can help

For large or complex projects, we come out to you or help remotely, so the measurements are right. Send us your measurements or photos and we will make your tarpaulin to fit exactly. Request a quote or browse our tarpaulins.