Ball Bungees or Tarp Clips? Choosing Tarpaulin Fixings
The fastening deserves as much attention as the sheet when you are buying a tarpaulin. An elastic loop and a fabric-gripping clip solve different parts of the job: one connects attachment points, while the other creates a place to attach a cord. They may also be used together, provided the parts and material are compatible.
This guide focuses on choosing fixings for a cover you already have. For advice on the sheet itself, start with our tarpaulin size and GSM guide.
Start with the two ends of the connection
Look at both the tarpaulin and whatever you intend to fasten it to. Does the sheet have an eyelet in the right place? Is there a suitable pole, ring or other attachment point nearby? Check the opening and the route the fastening must take, rather than buying a cord based only on the gap between the sheet and its support.
A fixing can be awkward to use if its end will not pass through an eyelet or if the loop cannot reach around the intended attachment point. Where the fabric has no eyelet, a suitable tarp clip is one option to compare. Examine the condition of the material first: choosing a different fastening does not remove the need to deal with a damaged edge.
When to compare ball-end bungees
Ball bungees combine an elastic loop with a ball end. Our Bungee Cord with Ball Ends Shock Cord listing describes a rubber core with a nylon outer and a plastic ball. It offers lengths of 4, 6, 8 and 10 inches, with separate pack-size choices from 2 to 100.
Compare the listed lengths with your intended arrangement before choosing a pack. A labelled cord length is not an instruction to stretch it to a particular maximum, and the product title alone should not be used to calculate a working load. If your setup needs a stated stretch limit or load capacity, confirm that information before ordering.
Ball-end loops are worth considering when you want a fastening that can be fitted and removed without tying a fresh knot each time. Check how the ball-and-loop arrangement will work with the existing eyelet and support, following the product’s fitting instructions.
Compare ball-end bungee lengths and pack sizes.
When to compare screw-on tarp clips
A tarp clip grips the sheet and provides an attachment hole. Our Tarp Clips Screw-On Crocodile Grip listing describes plastic crocodile-style jaws and a screw-on clamp, with an integrated hole for a cord or rope. The available pack choices are 6, 8, 10 and 50 clips.
This is a different purchase from an elastic cord. The clip gives you an attachment point, so plan the connecting cord and the support as well. Do not assume that a pack of clips includes bungees, or that every cord end will fit its hole.
Check suitability for the fabric and thickness of your cover before choosing. A gripping clip and a reinforced eyelet are different designs; the right choice depends on the sheet and the intended arrangement. If the listing does not provide a dimension or compatibility detail you need, confirm it rather than relying on the photograph.
Compare screw-on tarp clip pack sizes.
Choose the quantity from your attachment plan
Count the attachment points you intend to use before selecting a pack. Keep the quantities for clips and cords separate. For example, a point requiring both a clip and a connecting loop uses one of each; having enough clips does not automatically mean you have enough loops.
The basket quantity normally refers to the number of selected packs. Check the variant label and basket contents carefully so that you buy the intended number of individual fixings. For a variable product, choose every option and read the resulting price and availability before adding it to your basket.
A final check before ordering
- Confirm whether you need a connecting loop, a gripping clip or both.
- Check the tarpaulin edge, eyelets and intended support.
- Compare dimensions and fitting details for the selected option.
- Count each type of fixing and check the number supplied per pack.
- Confirm any load or stretch specification required for your application.
- Review the selected variant’s current availability and delivery information.
Browse tarpaulin accessories to compare other fastening styles.
UK delivery is available; check the applicable delivery details when ordering. Collection in the Manchester area must be arranged in advance.