The fabric is only one part of a tarpaulin. Many failures begin at the edges, corners, seams or fixing points. A good purchasing specification should therefore define how the cover will be joined, reinforced and secured.
What are tarpaulin eyelets?
Eyelets, also called grommets, are metal or plastic rings fitted through the hem. Rope, bungee cord or straps pass through them to secure the cover. They should be installed through reinforced material so the load is spread beyond the small ring.
Choosing eyelet spacing
Common requests include eyelets every 50 cm, 1 m or 1 yard. Closer spacing provides more fixing points, but performance still depends on equal tension and strong support. One eyelet carrying most of the load can pull out even when the surrounding eyelets are close together.
For exposed outdoor covers, ask the installer to consider wind direction, edge flutter and the strength of the supporting structure. The cover should not be tightened across sharp corners without protection.
Reinforced hems
A hem folds and secures the material around the perimeter. Reinforcement adds extra layers or webbing to improve strength. Rope may also be enclosed inside the hem to distribute load and provide a continuous edge for tying.
Heavy-duty covers and repeated-use truck covers normally need stronger edge construction than a light temporary sheet. Specify the intended fixing method when ordering.
Corner reinforcement
Corners experience combined tension from two directions and are frequent failure points. Additional fabric layers, webbing or shaped corner patches help spread the load. The tie should pull in line with the cover rather than twisting the eyelet.
Welded PVC seams
PVC-coated fabric is commonly joined using high-frequency welding. The process bonds overlapping panels and creates a strong, waterproof seam when the equipment, material and settings are correct. Weld direction and panel layout should support drainage and practical handling.
PE and canvas construction
PE tarpaulin may be heat-sealed or stitched depending on the grade and fabrication method. Canvas is normally stitched. Where stitching penetrates a waterproof finish, seam protection may be required for demanding rain exposure.
Custom sleeves, straps and openings
Eyelets are not the only fastening solution. Covers can include pole sleeves, webbing straps, buckles, hook-and-loop closures, access flaps or shaped openings. These details should be shown on a drawing with exact locations.
Installation matters
- Use enough fixing points to distribute load.
- Avoid loose sections that flap repeatedly.
- Protect the fabric from sharp and hot surfaces.
- Provide slope and drainage so water cannot pond.
- Do not over-tension one corner or eyelet.
- Inspect ropes, straps and fixing hardware regularly.
Include these details in your RFQ
State the material, GSM, finished size, quantity, hem construction, reinforcement, eyelet material and spacing, seam method, colour, delivery city and certificate requirement. Attach a sketch for non-standard positions.
Review available tarpaulin materials, learn about custom sizing, or request a quotation.