In this post we cover all you need to know about box covers. We will include what they are made from, what options are available, how to measure for a simple box cover.
Our box covers are made of 610gsm or 900gsm PVC material. Both materials are waterproof, UV stable and come in a range of colours. We use 45mm PVC webbing to reinforce the edges, which can then be fitted with eyelets or twist buttons. Additional options include zips, stretch cord and rope, document pockets and flexi window or mesh panels. Our 610gsm is often used for garden furniture covers, dust covers, rain covers and is lightweight, strong and versatile. Our 900gsm is the same weight and quality as the material used on side curtains of lorries, so is designed to be harder wearing and is used where the cover might get more wear and tear such as trailers with high mesh sides or covering industrial machines. Sometimes it’s chosen because its thickness means its less likely to crease so gives a better looking finish.
Measuring for a box cover
To begin with start by measuring the item you wish to cover at its longest, widest and tallest points. If you are planning to cover more than one item, such a patio table and chairs, arrange them in the manner that you expect to cover them, and then measure the whole grouping. Measurements can be in centimeters or inches. Length + width + height for box cover dimensions and indicate if you want it open at the bottom, top or side marked.
Box Dimensions
Those three measurements will provide us with the dimensions of your box cover. Most box covers are open at the bottom but you can indicate any side to be open depending on your needs.
There are many ways to secure covers if they are going to be used outside in all weather.
Covers can be fitted with eyelets, so that stretch cord or rope can be threaded through to secure the cover either to hooks or by lacing underneath the item it can be secured to itself.
A Cover fitted with Eyelets and Bungee Cord
Other options
Some box covers such as trailer covers need access points so we can fit box covers with zips to create a flap that can be opened without removing the whole cover.
Box cover with Zips
There is also the option of adding clips above the flap so that the flap can be clipped up out of the way.
zips and clips
We can turn a loop along the bottom edge of flaps so that a piece of timber can be slipped in, this gives the bottom some weight and make it easier to roll up.
a 2×1 Timber in a PVC Pocket
Mesh panels can also be added to increase ventilation or flexi windows to make the contents visible.
A breathable mesh panel in a PVC box cover
Clear Flexi window in a PVC
We can add handles using loops of webbing or heavy duty PVC. Or belt loops so the cover can be secured with a ratchet strap.
We can add flexi window pockets for documents and we can add Velcro fastenings to flaps to secure them.
Shaped Box Covers
Not all box covers are simple cubes, some need sloped roofs, have circular tops and come in all shapes and sizes. For the garden heater shown the customer wanted a box cover with a circular top and a zip down the side for ease of putting on and taking off. Measuring for this is simply the diameter across the top and the height from the top of the heater to the floor.
With a simple sketch and measurements from you there are all sorts of possibilities that can be made. This customer worked with us to design a waterproof box cover with mesh panels, zips, a circular cutout for an access pipe, an angled roof, webbing, eyelets and stretch cord to cover the insulation he had added to his rabbit hutch while still allowing good ventilation, light and access.
