Hey there! If you’ve ever needed to cover a car, protect your boat, or shield some equipment from the rain, you’ve probably asked yourself, “What size do tarps come in?” I know I have. Tarps are one of those things you don’t think about until you need one, but picking the right size can make or break your project. I’ve spent years using tarps for everything from covering my truck bed to setting up temporary shelters for camping. Let me share what I’ve learned about tarp sizes, types, and how to choose the perfect one for your needs. Grab a coffee, and let’s dive into the world of tarps!
My First Tarp Adventure
A few summers ago, I decided to restore an old pickup truck in my garage. I needed to keep it covered to protect it from dust and the occasional rain that sneaked through a leaky roof. I grabbed a tarp from the hardware store, thinking any size would do. Big mistake! It was too small to cover the truck properly, and I ended up with a soggy cab. That’s when I started digging into tarp sizes and realized there’s a lot more to it than I thought. Since then, I’ve used tarps for all sorts of projects, and I’m excited to break it all down for you.
What Are Tarps, Anyway?
Tarps are versatile sheets made of materials like polyethylene, canvas, or vinyl. They’re used to cover and protect things from weather, dust, or debris. In the automotive world, they’re perfect for shielding vehicles, equipment, or parts during storage or transport. But tarps come in all shapes and sizes, and picking the right one depends on what you’re covering and where you’re using it.
I’ve used tarps to cover my motorcycle during winter, protect car parts during a paint job, and even create a makeshift canopy for a car show. The key is knowing the sizes available and how they fit your needs.
Standard Tarp Sizes
Tarps come in a wide range of sizes, from small sheets for covering tools to massive ones for industrial use. Most tarps are measured in feet, and the sizes are usually listed as width by length (like 6×8 feet). Here’s a look at the most common sizes I’ve come across:
- Small Tarps (6×8, 8×10, 10×12): These are great for covering small items like motorcycles, lawnmowers, or stacks of firewood. I used an 8×10 tarp to cover my grill during a stormy week, and it fit perfectly.
- Medium Tarps (12×16, 16×20, 20×20): These are ideal for covering cars, small boats, or outdoor furniture sets. I’ve used a 16×20 tarp to cover my sedan when I parked it outside for a few months.
- Large Tarps (20×30, 30×40, 40×60): These are for bigger projects, like covering trucks, trailers, or construction materials. I once used a 20×30 tarp to cover a friend’s boat during a move, and it handled the job with room to spare.
- Extra-Large Tarps (50×100 and beyond): These are heavy-duty, often used for commercial or industrial purposes, like covering large equipment or creating temporary roofs. I’ve seen them at car dealerships covering rows of vehicles during bad weather.
Here’s a quick table to give you an idea of common tarp sizes and their uses:
| Tarp Size (Feet) | Best For | Example Use |
|---|---|---|
| 6×8, 8×10 | Small items, motorcycles, tools | Trucks, trailers, and large boats |
| 12×16, 16×20 | Cars, small boats, furniture | Protecting a sedan or outdoor patio set |
| 20×30, 30×40 | Trucks, trailers, large boats | Covering a pickup truck or boat during storage |
| 40×60, 50×100 | Industrial use, large equipment | Shielding construction materials or vehicles |
Custom Tarp Sizes
Sometimes, standard sizes don’t cut it. I learned this when I needed a tarp to cover an oddly shaped vintage car I was working on. The good news? Many retailers offer custom-sized tarps. You can order a tarp cut to the exact dimensions you need, which is perfect for unique projects like covering a custom-built trailer or an irregular pile of parts.
Custom tarps can be pricey, though. I paid about 50% more for a custom 14×18 tarp compared to a standard 16×20. But it was worth it to get a perfect fit. If you go this route, measure carefully—add a few extra feet for overlap to ensure full coverage.
How to Measure for the Right Tarp Size
Choosing the right tarp size starts with measuring your item. I’ve messed this up before, so let me save you some trouble. Here’s how I do it now:
- Measure the Item: Use a tape measure to find the length, width, and height of what you’re covering. For example, when covering my truck, I measured the bed’s dimensions and added a bit for drape.
- Add Extra Room: Tarps don’t stretch, so add 1-2 feet to each dimension for overlap. This ensures the tarp covers the entire item and can be secured.
- Consider the Shape: If your item has odd angles (like a boat), measure the widest and longest points. I once forgot to account for my boat’s bow, and the tarp came up short.
- Think About Securing It: You’ll need an extra tarp to tie down with ropes or bungees. I always add a couple of feet to each side for this.
For example, my truck bed is about 6×8 feet. I chose a 10×12 tarp to give me enough material to cover it securely, even in windy conditions.
Types of Tarps and Their Sizes
Not all tarps are created equal. The material affects the size options and what they’re best for. Here’s what I’ve learned about the main types:
Polyethylene (Poly) Tarps
These are the most common and affordable tarps. They’re lightweight, waterproof, and come in a huge range of sizes, from 6×8 to 50×100 feet. I use poly tarps for most automotive projects, like covering my car during a paint job. They’re great for temporary use, but can tear if you’re not careful.
Canvas Tarps
Canvas tarps are heavier and more durable than poly tarps. They’re breathable, which makes them ideal for covering vehicles or equipment that need air circulation to prevent mold. Sizes typically range from 6×8 to 20×30 feet. I used a 12×16 canvas tarp to cover my motorcycle for a whole winter, and it held up great.
Vinyl Tarps
Vinyl tarps are super tough and waterproof, perfect for heavy-duty jobs like covering trucks or trailers during long-term storage. They come in sizes from 10×12 to 40×60 feet. I helped a friend cover his RV with a 20×40 vinyl tarp, and it survived a brutal winter without a scratch.
Mesh Tarps
Mesh tarps are less common but great for shade or covering items that need airflow, like a truck bed full of loose materials. They come in sizes like 8×10 to 20×30 feet. I used a 10×14 mesh tarp to cover a load of gravel in my truck, and it kept everything secure while letting air through.
Factors That Affect Tarp Size Choice
Picking the right tarp size isn’t just about measurements. Here are some things I consider every time:
- Weather Conditions: If you’re dealing with wind or heavy rain, go bigger to ensure the tarp stays secure. I learned this during a stormy week when my too-small tarp kept blowing off my car.
- Duration of Use: For short-term use, a smaller poly tarp might be fine. For long-term storage, I choose a larger, more durable tarp, like vinyl or canvas.
- Securing Method: If you’re using bungees or ropes, you’ll need extra tarp material to tie down. I always keep a few bungees handy for this.
- Item Shape: Oddly shaped items, like boats or trailers, need bigger tarps to account for curves and angles. I once underestimated this and had to double up on tarps—such a hassle!
Common Uses for Tarps in the Automotive World
Tarps are a lifesaver for car enthusiasts like me. Here are some ways I’ve used them:
- Vehicle Storage: I use tarps to cover my cars and motorcycles during winter or when I’m working on a project. A 16×20 tarp is usually perfect for a standard car.
- Paint Protection: When I’m painting a car, I use tarps to cover nearby surfaces or parts I don’t want overspray on. A 10×12 poly tarp works great for this.
- Transporting Materials: I’ve used tarps to secure loads in my truck bed, like car parts or tools. A 12×16 mesh tarp is my go-to for this.
- Temporary Shelters: At car shows or outdoor repairs, I’ve set up tarps as canopies to shield from the sun or rain. A 20×20 tarp makes transparent for a big canopy.
One time, I used a 20×30 tarp to create a temporary garage for a friend’s classic car during a sudden rainstorm at a car show. It saved the day and kept the car dry!
Tips for Using Tarps Effectively
Over the years, I’ve picked up some tricks to get the most out of tarps. Here’s what works for me:
- Secure Them Well: Use strong bungees, ropes, or tarp clips to keep the tarp in place. I’ve had tarps fly off in the wind because I didn’t tie them down tightly enough.
- Clean Before Storing: Dirt or moisture on a tarp can cause mold or damage. I always shake out my tarps and let them dry before storing them.
- Double Up for Extra Protection: For long-term storage, I sometimes use two tarps—a breathable canvas one underneath and a waterproof poly one on top.
- Check for Tears: Before using a tarp, I inspect it for holes or weak spots. A small tear can turn into a big problem in bad weather.
Where to Buy Tarps
You can find tarps at hardware stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s, big-box retailers like Walmart, or online at places like Amazon or Tarps Direct. Prices range from $5 for a small poly tarp to $100 or more for large vinyl ones. I like to check reviews online to make sure I’m getting a durable tarp, especially for heavy-duty jobs.
For custom sizes, I’ve ordered from sites like MyTarp.com or TarpsPlus.com. They let you input exact dimensions, but delivery can take a week or two, so plan ahead.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve made plenty of tarp-related mistakes, so here’s what to watch out for:
- Buying Too Small: A tarp that’s too small won’t cover properly. Always measure and add extra room.
- Ignoring Material: Using a poly tarp for long-term vehicle storage can trap moisture and cause rust. I stick to canvas for anything that needs to breathe.
- Poor Securing: A loose tarp can flap in the wind and tear. I always double-check my bungees or ropes.
- Skipping Maintenance: Storing a wet or dirty tarp can ruin it. I learned this after a moldy tarp ruined a weekend project.
My Favorite Tarp Story
Last year, I was helping a buddy move a restored Mustang across state lines. We needed to cover it on a flatbed trailer during a rainy drive. We used a 20×30 vinyl tarp, secured it with heavy-duty bungees, and made sure it overlapped generously. The car arrived bone-dry, and my friend was thrilled. That tarp saved us from a lot of stress, and it’s now my go-to for any big transport job.
Wrapping It All Up
So, what size do tarps come in? They range from small 6×8 sheets to massive 50×100 covers, with plenty of options in between. Whether you’re protecting a car, covering a truck bed, or setting up a canopy, there’s a tarp size and material for every job. From poly tarps for quick fixes to durable vinyl for heavy-duty tasks, the right choice depends on your needs. Measure carefully, account for overlap, and secure it well, and you’ll be amazed at how versatile tarps are.
I’ve been using tarps for years, and they’ve never let me down. They’re affordable, easy to use, and a must-have for any automotive enthusiast. Whether you’re a weekend mechanic or a car show regular, a good tarp will make your life easier. So, head to your local store or hop online, grab the right tarp, and get to work. You’ll wonder how you ever managed without one!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the smallest tarp size available?
The smallest tarps are usually 6×8 feet. They’re great for covering small items like motorcycles, tools, or grills.
Can I get a tarp in a custom size?
Yes, many retailers offer custom-sized tarps. You can order exact dimensions online, but they cost more and take longer to deliver.
What’s the best tarp size for a car?
A 16×20 or 20×20 tarp usually works well for a standard car. Add extra room for overlap and securing.
Are bigger tarps better?
Not always. Bigger tarps are great for large items, but can be harder to secure and store. Choose a size that fits your item with a bit of extra material.
What material is best for long-term vehicle storage?
Canvas tarps are best for long-term storage because they’re breathable and prevent moisture buildup. Vinyl is good for waterproofing, but can trap humidity.