Choosing the Right Tarp: Size, Thickness & Material Explained

Written by: Zakary DeLeo

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Published on

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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.

Understanding Tarp Size


1. Measure Your Coverage Area

  • Start by measuring the length and width of the area or object you need to cover. Always consider whether you want full coverage or partial shelter.

2. Allow for Overhang & Securement

  • Add extra inches or feet for overhang to ensure protection from rain, wind, and UV rays. More overhang also helps when tying the tarp down with grommets, bungee cords, or ropes.

3. Know the "Cut Size" vs. "Finished Size"

  • Most tarps are sold using cut size , meaning the dimensions are taken before hemming. Expect the actual finished size to be 3–5% smaller .

4. Standard vs. Custom Sizes

  • Tarps come in standard sizes like 6x8, 10x12, or 20x30 feet. If your project has unique dimensions, custom tarps are available for a precise fit—though they may cost more.

Tarp Thickness

What’s a Mil?

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 Use case chart

Tarp Weight

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 .

Tarp weight chart

Note : Don’t confuse thickness with density. Two tarps with the same mil count could have drastically different durability depending on material and weave.

Tarp Materials

For a more in-depth analysis check out or blog post about Poly V Vinyl tarps here!


1. Polyethylene (Poly Tarps)


  • Most common material
  • Lightweight, waterproof, and UV-resistant
  • Thickness: 5–24 mils
  • Good for: general-purpose use, weather protection, camping, and storage

2. Vinyl Tarps


  • Made from PET and coated with PVC laminate
  • Stronger, more tear-resistant, and UV-durable than poly
  • Great for industrial, agricultural, and transportation use
  • Thickness: 15–30+ mils

3. Canvas Tarps


  • Made from cotton or hemp
  • Breathable, reusable, and eco-friendly
  • Often treated for water resistance and flame retardance
  • Measured in oz/yd² (e.g., 16 oz, 18 oz, 21 oz)
  • Best for: long-term coverage, painting, or welding
PE vs PVC chart

Weather & Environmental Resistance

A heavy-duty tarp should resist:

  • UV rays (treated with carbon black or HALS)
  • Water (especially vinyl and poly)
  • Tearing (thanks to higher denier thread and tight weave)
  • Mildew, rot, and chemicals

Some tarps also offer:

  • Fire resistance (check for flame-retardant treatment)
  • Light blocking (e.g., tarps with a black inner layer)

Tarp Features to Look For

  • Grommets : Reinforced metal eyelets for tying down tarps securely
  • Hems : Should be double-stitched or heat-sealed for strength
  • Perimeter Reinforcement : Look for rope-lined hems or patch reinforcement around grommets
  • Denier Rating : Higher denier = stronger threads

Choosing the Right Tarp

Use case table

Where to Buy High-Quality Tarps

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.

Final Thoughts

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.

What is considered a heavy-duty tarp?

Typically, a tarp 20 mils or thicker with UV protection, high denier, and reinforced seams.

Is a 10 mil tarp thick enough for outdoor use?

Yes, for medium-duty tasks like covering tools or small equipment, 10–16 mil tarps are suitable.

Are heavier tarps always better?

Not necessarily. Thicker tarps are more durable but also heavier and harder to maneuver. Match thickness to your specific use.

What’s the most durable tarp material?

Reinforced vinyl or high-grade polyethylene offers the best blend of strength, flexibility, and weather resistance.