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.

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.

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.

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)

• 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

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.