Tarpaulins

About Tarpaulins

Tarpaulins are essential heavy-duty protective covers used by tradespeople, builders, and DIY enthusiasts across the UK to safeguard materials, equipment, and vehicles from the elements. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of polyethylene tarpaulins from trusted brands including Sealey, Faithfull, and Draper, available in various sizes, weights, and specifications to suit every application. Whether you need a lightweight general-purpose cover for occasional use or a heavy-duty UV-stabilised tarp for long-term outdoor protection, our selection includes ground sheets, vehicle covers, and complete carport shelter systems designed to withstand harsh British weather conditions.

Modern tarpaulins feature reinforced corners, rust-proof eyelets at regular intervals, and UV-resistant coatings to prevent degradation from prolonged sun exposure. MyToolShed.co.uk also stocks essential tarpaulin accessories including instant clip-on eyelets, securing cord sets, and purpose-built portable carports that transform traditional tarps into structured vehicle storage solutions. Available in blue, green, and white options with GSM ratings ranging from light-duty to heavy-duty specifications, our tarpaulin range provides reliable weatherproofing and protection for building sites, gardens, workshops, and agricultural applications.

Applications

• Builders and General Contractors: Site protection, covering building materials, temporary weather shelters, and scaffold sheeting
• Roofers: Emergency weather protection during repairs, covering completed work overnight, and protecting building interiors
• Landscape Gardeners: Ground protection, covering planted areas, collecting garden waste, and protecting equipment
• Painters and Decorators: Drop sheets, furniture protection, and masking off work areas from dust and debris
• Agricultural Workers: Hay stack covers, machinery protection, and temporary livestock shelters
• Vehicle Owners and Mechanics: Car covers, temporary carport shelters, and workshop floor protection
• Transport and Logistics: Load covering, vehicle sheeting, and protecting goods during storage or transit
• DIY Enthusiasts and Homeowners: Garden furniture covers, BBQ protection, and temporary shelter during outdoor projects

Choosing The Right Tarpaulins

Material Weight (GSM): Select based on intended use – light-duty tarps (70-90 GSM) suit occasional DIY tasks, medium-duty options (90-120 GSM) handle regular site work, whilst heavy-duty tarpaulins (150+ GSM) provide long-lasting protection for demanding applications and permanent outdoor installations.

Size and Coverage: Measure the area requiring protection and add at least 30cm overhang on all sides. Standard sizes range from compact 2m x 3m sheets to large 6m x 8m covers. For vehicle storage, consider Sealey's purpose-built carport shelters offering structured protection up to 3.3m x 7.5m.

Colour Selection: Green tarpaulins blend naturally in outdoor environments, blue is traditional for building sites, whilst white or silver tarps reflect heat, making them ideal for covering temperature-sensitive materials.

Eyelet Configuration: Standard spacing of 1 metre suits most applications, but closer intervals (every 50cm) provide more fixing points for taut coverage or high-wind exposure. Look for reinforced corners and UV stabilisation for outdoor use beyond a few weeks.

Safety Information

Secure Fixing: Always ensure tarpaulins are properly secured with adequate fixing points, particularly in exposed locations. Loose tarps can become dangerous projectiles in high winds on building sites.

Water Accumulation: Regularly check horizontal tarpaulins for water pooling, which adds significant weight and can cause collapse. Angle tarps to encourage drainage, especially after heavy British rainfall.

Working at Height: When installing tarps on scaffolding or roofs, follow HSE guidelines for working at height using appropriate access equipment and harnesses where required.

Fire Hazards: Keep tarpaulins away from naked flames, welding operations, and heat sources. Polyethylene material is flammable and can produce toxic fumes when burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size tarpaulin do I need for my car or van?
For standard cars, a 4m x 6m tarpaulin provides adequate coverage with ground overlap. Transit-sized vans typically require 5m x 7m sheets. Alternatively, MyToolShed.co.uk stocks purpose-built Sealey carport shelters up to 3.3m x 7.5m that offer structured vehicle protection without constant tensioning.

How long will a polyethylene tarpaulin last outdoors?
Lifespan depends on material quality and UV stabilisation. Economy tarps typically last 6-12 months with continuous outdoor exposure, whilst heavy-duty UV-stabilised tarpaulins from brands like Draper and Faithfull can provide 2-3 years of reliable service when properly secured and maintained.

What's the difference between green and blue tarpaulins?
The colour difference is primarily aesthetic – blue tarps are traditional for construction sites, whilst green tarpaulins blend better in garden and agricultural settings. Both colours are available in various GSM weights, so always check the specification rather than relying on colour alone to indicate durability.