Tarpaulins & Covers

About Tarpaulins & Covers

Tarpaulins and covers are essential protective equipment for tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts across the UK. Whether you're safeguarding building materials on site, protecting vehicles and machinery from the British weather, or covering equipment during storage, a quality tarpaulin provides crucial protection against rain, dust, UV damage and debris. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of protective solutions, from lightweight polyethylene sheets for temporary coverage to heavy-duty reinforced tarpaulins designed for demanding outdoor conditions.

This category includes versatile multipurpose tarpaulins available in various sizes and weights, plus specialist body covers tailored for vehicles and machinery. Modern tarpaulins feature reinforced eyelets, UV-resistant coatings and rot-proof materials that ensure durability even in harsh working environments. The choice depends on your specific requirements, including duration of use, environmental exposure and the items being protected.

Applications

Tarpaulins and covers are indispensable across numerous trades and applications:

• Builders and contractors: Protecting building materials, scaffolding and work areas from weather damage during construction projects
• Roofers: Providing temporary weather protection during roof repairs and replacements
• Landscape gardeners: Covering soil, aggregates, machinery and protecting finished work from the elements
• Painters and decorators: Protecting floors, furniture and equipment from splashes and dust
• Agricultural workers: Covering hay bales, equipment, produce and creating temporary shelters
• Transport professionals: Securing and protecting loads on trailers, flatbed lorries and skips
• Marine and boat owners: Protecting vessels and equipment from weather and UV damage during storage
• DIY enthusiasts: Protecting garden furniture, vehicles, materials and home improvement projects

Choosing The Right Tarpaulins & Covers

Material and durability: Polyethylene tarpaulins suit short to medium-term use, whilst PVC options offer greater longevity for heavy-duty applications. Consider GSM rating (grams per square metre) – light-duty (90-120 GSM) for temporary indoor use, medium-duty (120-180 GSM) for general outdoor protection, and heavy-duty (180+ GSM) for demanding site conditions.

Size and coverage: Measure the area requiring protection, adding extra for overlap and secure fastening. MyToolShed.co.uk offers standard sizes from compact 2m × 3m sheets to large covers for extensive coverage.

Weather resistance: For outdoor use, ensure your tarpaulin is waterproof, UV-stabilised and rot-proof. UK weather demands materials that withstand prolonged rain whilst resisting mould growth. Reinforced corners and edges prevent tearing in high winds.

Eyelet spacing: Check eyelet spacing around the perimeter – closer spacing (every 500mm) provides more secure fixing points. Rust-proof metal eyelets offer greater strength than plastic alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What GSM tarpaulin do I need for building site use?

For typical building site applications, choose a medium to heavy-duty tarpaulin with a minimum GSM rating of 150-200. This provides adequate durability for weatherproofing materials and covering scaffolding. For long-term use or harsh conditions, opt for heavy-duty options above 200 GSM with reinforced edges.

How do I prevent my tarpaulin from tearing in strong winds?

Ensure proper securing using all available eyelets, with particular attention to corners which experience the greatest stress. Avoid creating large unsupported areas where wind can get underneath. Choose a tarpaulin slightly larger than required to allow adequate overlap and fixing margins.

What's the difference between body covers and tarpaulins?

Body covers are specifically designed for vehicles, machinery and equipment, often featuring tailored shapes, elasticated hems and breathable fabrics to prevent condensation. Tarpaulins are versatile flat sheets for general-purpose protection of materials, structures and areas, offering flexibility for diverse applications.