GSM means grams per square metre. It describes the weight of tarpaulin material, but it does not tell the whole story about strength or suitability. Buyers should consider GSM together with the base fabric, coating, seam method, reinforcement, UV exposure and intended use.
Why GSM matters
A higher GSM normally means more material per square metre. This can improve body, resistance to handling and stability, but it also increases weight, packing volume and installation effort. For a very large sheet, even a small GSM increase can add many kilograms.
Common PE tarpaulin weights
120 to 150 GSM
These light PE grades are useful for temporary covers, household work, short construction tasks and situations where easy handling is the main priority. They should be secured carefully because wind movement can damage eyelets and edges.
180 to 200 GSM
This range provides a practical balance for general construction, farm protection, storage and outdoor covering. It remains relatively easy to fold and transport while offering more body than light economy sheets.
250 GSM
Heavy-duty PE around 250 GSM is used when stronger temporary protection is required. It can suit larger covers, repeated site use and applications where heavier reinforcement and closer eyelet spacing are requested.
Common PVC tarpaulin weights
300 to 420 GSM
Lighter PVC grades suit curtains, partitions, event use and custom covers where flexibility is helpful. A 300 GSM fire-retardant PVC may be selected when certification is available and the project specifically requires it.
500 to 650 GSM
This is a popular commercial range for truck covers, equipment protection, industrial partitions and outdoor covers. It offers a useful balance between strength, welding performance and handling.
680 to 750 GSM
Heavier PVC can be specified for demanding industrial applications, repeated handling and environments needing stronger abrasion resistance. Special anti-static and fire-retardant options may be available at approximately 680 GSM.
800 to 900 GSM and above
Very heavy PVC is used for specialised covers, tents, structures and long-term industrial protection. The complete construction must be designed for the added weight, including supports, lifting, fixing and drainage.
Calculate the approximate material weight
Multiply length by width to find the area in square metres. Then multiply the area by GSM and divide by 1,000.
Example: A 10 m by 10 m sheet has an area of 100 square metres. At 500 GSM, the base fabric weight is approximately 50 kg before adding hems, eyelets, reinforcement and packing.
Other factors that affect performance
- Quality and density of the woven base fabric
- Thickness and uniformity of the coating or lamination
- High-frequency welding or stitching quality
- Reinforced perimeter and corner construction
- Eyelet material, spacing and pull-out resistance
- UV exposure, heat, chemicals and abrasion
- Correct slope, tension and drainage during installation
Choose GSM by the real application
Explain whether the cover is temporary or permanent, how often it will be moved, the expected weather, the fixing method and any certificate requirement. The best specification provides the necessary protection without creating unnecessary weight or cost.
See our PE, PVC and canvas options, review standard and custom sizes, or send your requirement.