What Size Tarp Do I Need for My Pool? (Complete Sizing Guide + Chart)
Posted by CanopiesAndTarps on Apr 9th 2026
Choosing the right tarp size for your pool is critical. Too small and it won’t stay secure. Too large and it becomes difficult to manage. This guide helps you choose the perfect size tarp for your pool.
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How to Measure Your Pool
- Measure length and width (or diameter for round pools)
- Add 2–4 feet of overlap on each side
Pool Tarp Size Chart
| Pool Size | Recommended Tarp |
|---|---|
| 10' Round | 14' x 14' |
| 12' Round | 16' x 16' |
| 10' x 20' | 14' x 24' |
Tips for Choosing the Right Tarp
- Use 12 mil or thicker for durability
- Choose waterproof materials
- Secure with tie-downs or weights
Find the Right Tarp
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Helpful Resources
Need help choosing the right tarp for your pool? Explore these guides, tools, and product options to find the best size, material, and setup.
- Tarp Resource Center
Explore guides, tips, and expert advice for choosing and using tarps. - 12 Mil Poly Tarp Weight & Strength Guide
Understand tarp thickness, durability, and what makes a tarp truly heavy duty. - Shop Round Tarps
Perfect for round pools—designed for better fit and easier coverage. - How to Cover Your Pool with a Tarp
Step-by-step tips for securing your tarp and protecting your pool year-round. - Find the Right Tarp or Cover
Use our guided tool to quickly match your pool size with the right tarp.
FAQs
How do I measure my pool to find the right tarp size?
To find the right tarp size, measure the length and width of your pool at its widest points, then add at least 2–3 feet to each dimension to allow for overlap and anchoring around the edges. For irregular or oval-shaped pools, measure the longest and widest spans and round up to the nearest standard tarp size. You can browse available dimensions on our Tarps by Size page to find the closest match for your pool's measurements.
What type of tarp is best for covering a pool during rain or storms?
For rain and storm protection, you'll want a heavy-duty waterproof tarp made from polyethylene or vinyl with reinforced grommets to handle wind and pooling water. Lightweight tarps may sag or tear under heavy rainfall or debris, so a higher mil thickness is strongly recommended for seasonal or severe-weather use. Check out our guide to the Best Tarp for Rain & Harsh Weather to compare materials and durability ratings before you buy.
Can I use a mesh tarp to cover my pool for shade instead of full coverage?
Yes, a mesh tarp can be a great option if your primary goal is to reduce sun exposure and limit algae growth rather than achieve full waterproof coverage. Mesh tarps allow air circulation and partial light filtering while still blocking a significant portion of UV rays. Our Mesh Sun Shade Tarps with Grommets are available in multiple sizes and are easy to secure over above-ground or in-ground pool areas.
How do I secure a tarp over my pool so it doesn't blow off?
The most reliable methods include threading bungee cords or rope through the tarp's grommets and anchoring them to stakes, water bags, or the pool frame itself. Adding extra weight along the edges with sandbags or water-filled anchor bags provides additional stability in windy conditions. For a full walkthrough on securing your cover properly, our guide on How to Cover Your Pool with a Tarp covers anchoring tips and common mistakes to avoid.
Do you carry tarps large enough to cover an Olympic or commercial-sized pool?
We carry tarps in a wide range of sizes, including larger dimensions suited for oversized residential and commercial pools. For the best fit on a very large pool, it's often better to use multiple overlapping tarps rather than one unwieldy cover, which also makes handling and storage easier. Visit our Tarps by Size page to explore the full range of available dimensions, or browse our complete selection of Canvas & Vinyl Canopy Tents, Tarps & Accessories to find the right product for large-scale coverage needs.