What Size Tarpaulin Do I Need? A Measuring and Buying Guide
Measure the surface you need to cover, then add any side drops and room for fastening. A tarpaulin the same size as the top of an object will not cover its sides as well.
Write down both dimensions in metres. Check whether you need a flat sheet, a cover over a raised object or a cover with a ridge or other support. The shape changes how much material the sheet must span.
A simple example for a rectangular load
Suppose the top of a stack measures 2m long by 1m wide, and you want the cover to drop 0.5m down each side. For a straightforward rectangular drape:
- Length across the top and down both ends: 2 + 0.5 + 0.5 = 3m.
- Width across the top and down both sides: 1 + 0.5 + 0.5 = 2m.
That gives 3 x 2m before fastening allowance, hems, tolerances or any raised support. It is not a recommendation to buy a nominal 2 x 3m tarp for that job. Compare the actual finished coverage with a larger listed size or ask for the finished dimensions before ordering.
Cut size, finished size and “approximate” size
Cut size is the material dimension before fabrication. Finished size is the size after the edges have been made up. Product descriptions vary between suppliers, and a stated approximate size should not be treated as a guaranteed precision dimension.
Check the size notes on the actual product. Do not apply another supplier’s allowance to a different tarp. If a small shortfall would expose what you need to cover, establish the finished size and tolerance before buying.
What sizes are in the TIMCO heavy-duty range?
| Listed metric size | Approximate feet conversion | Supplier reference |
|---|---|---|
| 2 x 3m | 6.6 x 9.8ft | TTH23 |
| 4 x 5m | 13.1 x 16.4ft | TTH45 |
| 5 x 8m | 16.4 x 26.2ft | TTH58 |
Our TIMCO heavy-duty green tarpaulins are offered in these sizes. Confirm the selected variant and any finished-size requirement. TIMCO’s TTH23 information specifies a 14 x 14 weave, reinforced hems and corners, and a material weight of 180gsm.
Does a higher GSM mean a better tarp?
GSM means grams per square metre: it describes material weight. Use it alongside the material, reinforcement, eyelets and intended application. It does not by itself give a wind-load rating, a service-life guarantee or approval for a permanent roof.
A lighter sheet can be easier to handle for a suitable temporary task. A heavier option may be more appropriate where the product is specified for tougher use. Compare our light-duty blue tarpaulins with the heavier green range rather than choosing by colour alone.
Allow for the fixing method
Leave enough material to reach the intended attachment points without pulling the sheet hard across sharp corners. Use the product’s reinforced eyelets or permitted clips, and spread the attachment points as its instructions require. Avoid an arrangement that lets water collect in an unsupported pocket.
Check securing accessories for the job as well. Small elastic tarp ties are not a substitute for rated load-restraint equipment when transporting a load. Roof work, exposed installations and other consequential uses need a suitable system and working method, not a generic tarp-size rule.
Browse all tarpaulins, then compare the coverage, grade and fastening details before choosing a pack.
