Elastic Bungee Cords

The 6 to 8 mm diameter covers the vast majority of common professional needs: securing tarpaulins on trailers, light tie-down in vans, protecting equipment on outdoor pallets, and flexible signage. Below this range (4 to 5 mm), the tension remains modest and the bungee cord deforms quickly under prolonged load. Beyond this (10 mm and above), the tensile force requires particularly robust anchor points and makes handling more difficult. If in doubt, 8 mm remains the safe choice.

A professional-grade bungee cord stretches 50 to 100% of its resting length depending on diameter and construction. For example, a cord measuring 50 cm at rest can reach 75 cm to 1 metre in use. To preserve the lifespan of the cord, avoid stretching it close to its theoretical maximum for extended periods: a daily stretch of 30 to 50% ensures optimal longevity. Beyond 80% stretch, the rubber undergoes accelerated fatigue that significantly reduces its useful service life.

A professional-grade bungee cord retains its properties for 2 to 5 years in outdoor use, depending on exposure conditions. The main enemies are intense UV rays (Mediterranean climates, south-facing fixtures), extreme temperature fluctuations (freeze-thaw cycles) and excessive stress (stretching close to maximum, variable loads). Bungee cords with UV-treated textile sheaths perform significantly better than single-sheath models. Inspect your bungee cords regularly and replace any that show cracking, hardening or loss of elasticity.

For tarpaulin fixation, PVC hooks or coated metal hooks are strongly recommended: their smooth surface does not damage the tarpaulin eyelet, unlike bare metal hooks which can widen the hole through vibration and eventually tear the tarpaulin at the attachment point. For very thick tarpaulins or reinforced PVC ones (professional truck tarpaulins), large-diameter galvanised metal hooks are suitable. Avoid hooks that are too thin, as they concentrate all the tension on just a few fibres of the tarpaulin.

Yes, bungee cords sold by the metre without end fittings can be cut to your exact required length using a sturdy pair of scissors or a sharp utility knife. Several techniques are available to reattach an end fitting: crimping with a metal ferrule compressed using pliers, tying a knot (resulting in approximately 20% loss of tensile strength), or bonding with a heat-shrink sleeve. For repeated professional use, purchasing pre-fitted bungee cords in the correct length remains the most practical and reliable solution.

Yes, bungee cords in bright colours (red, orange, fluorescent yellow) are often used for temporary marking of construction zones, safety perimeters or event activations. Stretched between two posts or attached to existing furniture, they create a clear boundary while ensuring a secure fixing. For more structured and long-lasting marking solutions, complement your setup with retractable belt posts or plastic marking chains for a more professional finish.

To preserve their elasticity, store your bungee cords in a dry place, away from direct UV exposure and at a moderate temperature (ideally between 5 and 25°C). Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight, heat sources (radiators, exhaust pipes) and standing moisture, which encourages mould growth on the textile sheath. Store them relaxed, without leaving them under constant tension between uses: a bungee cord kept permanently stretched loses its elasticity far more quickly than one stored at rest.

For marine or saline environments (ports, marinas, coastal facades, fishing production areas), opt for bungee cords with plastic or stainless steel tips, or even fully sheathed models. Galvanised metal tips offer better resistance than bare steel, but will eventually corrode with prolonged exposure to salt. The textile sheath should also be treated with an anti-fungal coating to prevent mould growth in humid areas. Our customer service team can advise you on the model best suited to your specific requirements.

The general rule is to choose a resting length corresponding to 60 to 70% of the distance between the two attachment points. For example, for a distance of 1 metre between a tarpaulin eyelet and the vehicle anchor point, choose a bungee cord measuring 60 to 70 cm at rest, which will stretch comfortably to 1 metre. This intermediate tension provides good hold without putting excessive strain on the bungee cord. For flexible tarpaulins prone to flapping in the wind, increase the tension slightly (shorter bungee cord) to limit unwanted movement.

The bungee cords are securing and fastening accessories, but do not replace EN 12195-approved lashing straps for securing loads in road transport subject to Road Traffic Regulations. For lashing heavy or hazardous loads, always use approved ratchet straps with LC (Lashing Capacity) labelling. Bungee cords are a useful complement for protective covers, blanket securing and secondary fastenings, but are not designed to replace regulatory primary lashing devices.