Types of tarpaulin: which one do you need?

Choosing a tarpaulin seems simple, until you discover how many types of tarpaulin there are. The right tarpaulin depends on what you are covering, how long it needs to last and the conditions it will be used in. In this guide we walk you through the four most important choices and give practical examples, so you can choose with confidence.

1. What will you use the tarpaulin for?

Start with the application. Are you covering a trailer or truck, protecting machinery and stock, or looking for a fixed cover for a shed or canopy? Transport has different requirements, such as abrasion resistance and windproofing, from temporary protection in storage. First decide whether the tarpaulin will stay fixed in place, needs to be opened and closed regularly, or will only be used occasionally.

• Transport: curtain side curtains, trailer covers and tipper sheets
• Covering & storage: tarpaulin covers and roll-up curtains
• Ventilation needed: mesh tarpaulins and skip nets
• Protecting machinery: machinery covers and made-to-measure covers

2. Tarpaulin material types: which suits you best?

The two most common materials are PVC and PE. PVC tarpaulin is heavy, strong and lasts for years, making it ideal for intensive use. PE tarpaulin, the familiar builder's tarpaulin, is lighter and cheaper and suitable for temporary covering. If you need ventilation, for example for agricultural produce or in windy locations, a mesh tarpaulin is the better choice. For the full comparison, read our article on PVC vs PE tarpaulin.

3. What weight do you need?

The fabric weight in grams per square metre (gsm) tells you how strong a tarpaulin is. Lighter tarpaulins of around 250 g/m² are handy for occasional use; tarpaulins of 400 to 570 g/m² are the most popular mid-range choice for regular use; heavy tarpaulins of 570 to 680 g/m² or more are designed for permanent, heavy-duty applications. Rule of thumb: the heavier the tarpaulin, the longer it lasts, but also the heavier it is to work with.

4. Which finish matters?

Think of hems, eyelets, ratchet straps, a zip or a hook-and-loop edge. The right finish determines how securely you can fasten the tarpaulin and how long it lasts. As standard we fit eyelets every 50 cm, but you decide the spacing and position. We make tarpaulins fully to measure with the finish you need; also read how to measure a tarpaulin for a made-to-measure cover.

Common types of tarpaulin and their uses

To help you on your way, here is an overview of popular tarpaulins and what they are typically used for:

• Curtain side curtains and sliding tarpaulin systems for fast loading and unloading from the side.
• Roof tarpaulins and catering trailer covers for commercial vehicles and box bodies.
• Straw stack covers for the agricultural sector, often in breathable fabric.
• Industrial curtains and insulated curtain walls for indoor use.
• Pool covers, shade sails and windbreak screens for outdoor use.

Maintenance: how to make your tarpaulin last longer

A tarpaulin lasts longest if you store it dry, clean it regularly with water and a soft brush, and have tears repaired promptly. Avoid prolonged rubbing against sharp edges and check the eyelets and hems for wear. We repair minor damage professionally, so you don't have to replace the tarpaulin straight away.

Standard size or made to measure?

Standard sizes are cheaper and quickly available, but rarely fit perfectly. A made-to-measure tarpaulin matches your application exactly, with the right finish and fastenings. For a snug fit, a longer life and far less hassle, made to measure almost always pays off, especially for intensive business use.

Still unsure which type of tarpaulin you need? We can help

At Arton, we have been making made-to-measure tarpaulins for business customers for more than 40 years. Tell us about your application and we will advise you on the right material, weight and finish. Request a no-obligation quote or browse all our tarpaulins.