90 GSM vs 120 GSM vs 200 GSM Tarpaulin – Which One Should You Buy?
Choosing the right tarpaulin GSM is important because thickness, weight, durability and intended use all change as GSM increases. GSM means grams per square metre, so a higher GSM generally indicates a heavier and stronger tarpaulin.
What Does GSM Mean in Tarpaulin?
GSM stands for grams per square metre. It is a simple way to compare the material weight of tarpaulin sheets. A 200 GSM tarpaulin is usually heavier and more durable than a 90 GSM sheet of the same size, but the right choice depends on how and where you plan to use it.
90 GSM Tarpaulin
90 GSM tarpaulins are lightweight, easy to handle and suitable for temporary or light-duty covering. They are useful when you need protection from dust, light rain or short-term outdoor exposure without adding too much weight.
Best Uses for 90 GSM
- Temporary agricultural covering
- Light storage protection
- Short-term transport covering
- Household and general utility use
120 GSM Tarpaulin
120 GSM tarpaulins provide a balance between portability and durability. They are stronger than lightweight sheets while remaining easy to fold, carry and install. This makes them suitable for regular farm and general outdoor applications.
Best Uses for 120 GSM
- Farm produce and equipment covering
- Regular outdoor storage
- Transport and vehicle loads
- Construction and site protection
200 GSM Tarpaulin
200 GSM tarpaulins are intended for heavier-duty protection. The additional material weight generally improves tear resistance, durability and weather protection, making them suitable for longer-term and demanding outdoor use.
Best Uses for 200 GSM
- Long-term agricultural covering
- Heavy machinery and equipment protection
- Construction materials
- Truck and transport covering
- Outdoor storage exposed to sun and rain
90 GSM vs 120 GSM vs 200 GSM: Quick Comparison
| GSM | Weight | Durability | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 90 GSM | Light | Light duty | Temporary covering |
| 120 GSM | Medium | Medium duty | Regular farm and utility use |
| 200 GSM | Heavy | Heavy duty | Long-term outdoor protection |
Which GSM Should You Buy?
Choose 90 GSM when low weight and easy handling are the priority. Choose 120 GSM for a practical balance of strength and portability. Choose 200 GSM when durability and stronger weather protection are more important than weight.
Also consider the tarpaulin material, lamination quality, UV stabilization, eyelet strength and stitching. GSM is important, but it should not be the only factor in your purchase decision.
Tarpaulin Size and Weight
The total weight of a tarpaulin increases with both GSM and sheet size. Large 200 GSM sheets can become significantly heavier than 90 GSM sheets, so consider installation and handling requirements before choosing a size.
Browse our Tarpaulin collection for available brands, GSM options and sizes.
You can also compare our NEX tarpaulin options for different weights and applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 200 GSM tarpaulin always better than 90 GSM?
Not always. 200 GSM is usually stronger, but it is also heavier and may cost more. For temporary or light-duty use, 90 GSM may be more practical.
Which GSM is best for agriculture?
For routine agricultural covering, 120 GSM is a good middle option. For long-term outdoor exposure or heavier use, 200 GSM may be more suitable.
Does higher GSM mean better waterproofing?
Higher GSM can improve overall strength, but waterproof performance also depends on material quality, lamination and construction. Check the product specifications before buying.
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