Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-07-08 Origin: Site
When shopping for a tarp, one of the most overlooked—but absolutely crucial—factors is getting the right waterproof tarp size. A tarp that doesn’t fit correctly can lead to coverage gaps, water leaks, wind damage, and wasted investment. Whether you’re covering a vehicle, shielding outdoor furniture, or protecting valuable equipment, tarp size affects both performance and lifespan.
At Jinan Bollison, we help customers worldwide choose waterproof tarps that match their exact requirements—not only in material and strength, but also in size and fit. This guide will walk you through why size matters, how to measure correctly, what sizing tips to follow, and how to secure your tarp for long-term protection.
You might think “bigger is better” when it comes to tarps, but improper sizing—whether too small or too large—often leads to poor results. Even a few inches of difference can have serious consequences, especially when protecting items from heavy rain, wind, or prolonged sun exposure.
A tarp that’s too small may leave corners or sides exposed. This leads to water intrusion, UV damage, and unnecessary wear on the uncovered surfaces. It can also create tension at the grommets and seams, causing tearing when pulled too tightly.
On the other hand, a tarp that’s too large may flap excessively in wind or sag under rainwater. Sagging causes ponding—when water collects in the tarp—and this can stretch the fabric, damage seams, or even cause failure during heavy storms.
In short, the wrong waterproof tarp size undermines the very protection you bought it for. Choosing the correct size ensures a snug, secure fit and dependable waterproof coverage.
Before you buy a tarp, the first thing to do is measure. Don’t guess or estimate—use a tape measure and follow a few simple rules to ensure accuracy and avoid expensive sizing mistakes.
Start with the length and width of the item or surface you’re covering. If you need full vertical protection—such as covering a pile of materials or a tall machine—also measure the height. Be sure to record measurements in feet or meters, depending on your preferred unit.
For waterproofing to be effective, the tarp must extend slightly beyond the item’s edges. Add at least 6 to 12 inches on each side to ensure full coverage and allow for tie-down or draping. For example, if your equipment is 6x8 feet, a tarp that’s at least 8x10 feet will give you a good margin.
Some tarps are secured above the object—like on a raised frame or hooks—which means you may need extra length to reach these anchor points. Also consider whether the tarp will be wrapped, folded, or draped. In general, err on the side of slightly larger to allow flexibility, but avoid massive oversizing that causes sagging or wind flapping.
Because tarps are generally sold in even-numbered sizes (e.g., 6x8, 8x10, 10x12), round your measurements up to the next available size. This ensures full coverage without creating unnecessary stress points.
At Jinan Bollison, our sales team often assists customers with measurements and overlap planning, ensuring you get the exact waterproof coverage you need.
To help with sizing, it’s useful to understand the general tarp dimensions recommended for specific applications. Although each use case is different, certain sizes tend to perform well based on real-world usage.
For patio furniture, such as a table and chairs for four to six people, a tarp size of around 8x10 feet is usually sufficient. It allows full coverage with room for securing the edges.
For small vehicles or ATVs, a 10x20 feet tarp provides good protection, especially if you're covering both the top and sides.
When covering a backyard deck or flooring area, a 12x16 feet tarp or larger may be necessary. Be sure to add extra length if water runoff or ground anchoring is needed.
For camping setups, a solo camper may need just a 6x8 feet tarp for a basic shelter, while a family or group setup might require 10x12 feet or more for rain protection and shade.
For construction equipment, the required size varies widely based on the machinery. However, sizes starting from 16x20 feet up to 20x30 feet are common for larger items such as generators, scaffolding, or forklifts.
If you’re stacking firewood, tarps in the range of 6x10 feet to 8x12 feet generally provide adequate coverage for standard-length logs, depending on the height of the stack.
Always match the tarp size to the object dimensions with at least 1 foot of allowance on each side. For complex shapes or larger spaces, we recommend speaking directly with our team for personalized recommendations.
Many customers ask whether they should choose a pre-cut tarp or invest in a custom-made size. Each has its advantages, depending on how specific your coverage needs are.
Pre-built tarps are available in a wide range of popular sizes. They’re convenient, cost-effective, and readily available for fast shipping. If your object or area falls within a standard dimension, a pre-sized tarp can be the simplest solution.
However, custom-cut tarps offer a tailored fit. If your object has non-standard measurements, unique angles, or requires precise draping, a custom tarp is well worth the extra investment. You can also choose custom grommet spacing, corner reinforcements, and fabric thickness.
At Jinan Bollison, we manufacture both standard-sized and custom-made waterproof tarps. Whether you need one tarp or a thousand, we can cut to your exact dimensions and add reinforcements as needed.
Even the best-fitting tarp must be properly secured to prevent movement and maintain coverage during bad weather. The method of securing depends on your environment, tarp material, and how often you’ll need to remove or adjust the cover.
Tarps come with metal eyelets (grommets) spaced along the edges for tie-downs. The spacing matters—a tarp with grommets every 18 to 24 inches offers better tension control and a snugger fit. Wider spacing may be acceptable for light-duty use, but frequent users or high-wind zones should opt for tighter grommet intervals.
Bungee cords are ideal for temporary setups. They’re flexible and easy to remove, making them perfect for regular access or short-term coverage.
Ropes offer more custom tension and are ideal for semi-permanent setups. Use strong knots and tie to solid anchor points.
Ratchet straps provide the highest tension and are suited for professional or heavy-duty use. They prevent flapping and tearing, especially for transport covers or industrial applications.
Securing your tarp correctly not only protects what’s underneath—it also protects the tarp itself from premature wear and tear.
Getting the right waterproof tarp size is just as important as choosing the right material. Accurate measurement, understanding your application, and thoughtful securing methods all contribute to a tarp’s overall effectiveness. A tarp that fits well not only lasts longer but also protects your investment more reliably.
At Jinan Bollison, we offer a full range of waterproof tarps in a variety of sizes, materials, and custom specifications. Whether you’re covering machinery, outdoor assets, or preparing for seasonal protection, we’re here to help you find the perfect fit—every time.
Contact us today to get expert assistance with sizing, material selection, and ordering custom or standard waterproof tarps. We’re here to help you cover smarter, longer, and more effectively.
