How to Build a Backyard Slip-and-Slide with a Tarp (That Your Kids Will Never Forget)

Posted on 31st July 2025 at 11:59

The ultimate tradie guide to summer fun at home, without breaking the bank.

Let’s Face It, Tradies: You’ve Built Bigger, But This Will Be More Fun

You’re used to hammering out projects that involve bricks, beams, and boilers, but this summer, let’s swap your hi-vis for hosepipes and give your kids a day to remember. A DIY slip-and-slide is a simple, budget-friendly, and genuinely epic way to turn your garden into the coolest playground on the block.

And it starts with the humble tarpaulin, something we know a thing or two about at Tarpaulins To Go.

What You’ll Need (Tools for the Job)

This isn’t just chucking water on plastic. If you want to build something fun and safe, you’ll need a few essentials:

Core Materials:

Heavy-duty tarpaulin (5m–10m long depending on space – see our Polyethylene Tarpaulins for options)

Garden hose with a spray nozzle or sprinkler attachment

Biodegradable washing-up liquid or baby shampoo

Ground pegs or tent stakes to secure the tarp (available in our accessories section)

Pool noodles (for edge padding—trust us, your shins will thank you)

Optional: inflatable pool at the end for a splash landing

Choosing the Right Tarp: What GSM Is Best?

This part matters. Most people gloss over it, but if you’re sliding at speed, your tarp needs to take the strain.

Light-Duty (90-110 GSM) – Fine for toddlers or super-short runs.

Medium-Duty (110-150 GSM) – A good balance for families.

Heavy-Duty (150-250 GSM) – Best for bigger kids (and adults who can’t resist having a go).

Check out our Heavy-Duty Tarpaulins if you want something reusable for years.

Step-by-Step: Building the Beast

1. Pick the Perfect Spot

A gentle grassy slope is ideal.

Avoid stony ground or anywhere near paving slabs. Kids + speed + concrete = A&E visit.

2. Roll It Out

Lay your tarp flat. If needed, overlap multiple tarps and use tarp tape along the seam.

3. Anchor It Properly

Use ground pegs at all corners and midpoints.

Tuck pool noodles under the sides and tape them to act as bumpers.

4. Lube It Up

Spray water liberally.

Add a thin line of eco-safe soap down the middle.

Turn on the sprinkler and keep it running while kids are sliding.

5. Add a Finish Line

An inflatable paddling pool at the end makes a great crash pad.

Tradie Tips: Go Next-Level

Obstacle Add-Ons: Slide under hanging pool noodles, weave through cones.

Night-Time Slide: Line the sides with solar garden lights or glow sticks.

Water Balloons Mid-Slide: Scatter biodegradable balloons along the length for splashes and surprises.

Eco & Safety Smarts

Use biodegradable soap only. No one wants suds in their flower beds or local water supply.

Supervise young children at all times. Slippery surfaces can cause bumps.

Don’t forget to clean and dry your tarp afterward, store it properly and reuse it for future garden projects, car cover, or camping shelter.

Reuse Your Tarp: Not Just a One-Hit Wonder

When the slip-and-slide fun is done, don’t bin the tarp. Here’s how else you can use it:

Cover your tools and materials on-site

Shelter for BBQs and gazebos

Tent groundsheet or rain fly for camping trips

Protect car interiors or trailers during transport

Browse our Tarpaulins for year-round utility.

FAQs for First-Time Backyard Sliders

Can I use an old tarp with holes?

You can, but water will drain too fast, and it might snag. Choose a solid one from our collection.

What if my garden is flat?

No problem. Just boost the water flow and soap, kids still get a good slide going.

Is it safe for toddlers?

With supervision, soft grass, and edge padding, yes! Use low water pressure and avoid slopes.

Wrapping Up: Be the Hero of the Summer Holidays

You spend all week working hard, this is your chance to turn your skills into something seriously fun. Whether you're building kitchens or scaffolding, trust us, building a tarp slip-and-slide will get you the best customer review yet: “Thanks, Dad!”

And with high-quality, affordable tarpaulins from Tarpaulins To Go, you’re sorted for materials, durability, and years of summer fun.

Ready to Build Yours?

Check out our best-selling Heavy-Duty Tarpaulins and grab your supplies before the next heatwave hits.

Summer won’t last forever, but memories like this will.

Disclaimer: Whilst we have been careful to outline our recommendations for building a slip-n-slide, Tarpaulins To Go can't be held responsible for accidents or injuries, parental supervision is required at all times.