Choosing the Right Tarp: Size, Thickness & Material Explained
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Time to read 3 min
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Time to read 3 min
Whether you're covering construction equipment, protecting outdoor furniture, securing cargo, or setting up a campsite, choosing the right tarp can make a huge difference. But with terms like “mil thickness,” “poly vs. vinyl,” “light-duty,” and “cut size,” shopping for a tarp can get confusing fast.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about tarp size, thickness, weight, materials, and use cases—so you can choose the perfect tarp for your needs with confidence.
A mil is a unit of thickness equal to 1/1000th of an inch . For reference, a human hair is roughly 2 mils thick.
Tarp weight is usually measured in ounces per square yard . Heavier tarps are more durable, as they typically have a denser weave , thicker coating , and stronger reinforcement .
Note : Don’t confuse thickness with density. Two tarps with the same mil count could have drastically different durability depending on material and weave.
For a more in-depth analysis check out or blog post about Poly V Vinyl tarps here!
A heavy-duty tarp should resist:
Some tarps also offer:
For premium tarps that combine strength, weather resistance, and long-lasting performance, Sara Glove is your trusted source. We offer a wide variety of heavy-duty tarps in multiple sizes and colors—perfect for industrial, commercial, and personal use.
Whether you need reliable protection for construction, landscaping, agriculture, or storage, our tarps are built to handle the toughest conditions. With reinforced edges, UV-treated materials, and a range of thicknesses, Sara Glove tarps provide dependable coverage you can count on.
Choosing the right tarp isn’t just about picking the biggest or thickest one on the shelf. It's about understanding your needs and matching them to the right combination of size , thickness , material , and durability features .
A quality tarp is an investment in long-term protection. Make an informed decision, and your tarp will have your back for years to come—rain, shine, or snow.
Typically, a tarp 20 mils or thicker with UV protection, high denier, and reinforced seams.
Yes, for medium-duty tasks like covering tools or small equipment, 10–16 mil tarps are suitable.
Not necessarily. Thicker tarps are more durable but also heavier and harder to maneuver. Match thickness to your specific use.
Reinforced vinyl or high-grade polyethylene offers the best blend of strength, flexibility, and weather resistance.