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Trucks are incredibly versatile vehicles that are often used to transport goods and equipment. However, the open bed of a truck can leave these items vulnerable to the elements and theft. That's where tonneau covers come in. Tonneau covers are designed to protect the contents of a truck bed, providing security and weather protection. With so many different types of covers available, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, it can be challenging to determine which one is right for you. In this post, we'll explore the various types of tonneau covers and their pros and cons, helping you make an informed decision about which cover will best suit your needs.
WHAT IS A TONNEAU COVER?
Tonneau covers are added to a vehicle to protect the contents of your truck bed from the elements such as rain, snow, ice, and dust, as well as theft by keeping prying eyes away from your tools and valuables.
Made from durable materials, they typically resist tearing, punctures, and UV sun damage. Each cover is custom tailored to fit your vehicle model’s exact dimensions to ensure a perfect seal that will keep the contents clean and safe.
WHICH IS THE BEST?
Well, that depends on many factors and what may be best for one situation may not be the best suited for another. Owners need to identify how they will primarily use the truck bed, and what they require a cover for. An individual who hauls their 5th wheel trailer on the weekends will have a different need than a professional tradesman who will need to secure their tools. Picking the right product that will suit each individuals needs, and budget is important.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF COVERS
There are many types of covers and each type has their pro's and con's.
Soft Roll Up
These covers are particularly convenient for someone who does not require securing the contents of the truck bed such as a truck owner who occasionally hauls materials for a weekend project. They attach to the sides using a hook and loop type of fastener and can be rolled all the way up against the truck cab if needed, taking up very little bed space. They are typically the lightest of covers and sit above the truck bed. Some covers are thick, and some sit almost flush with the truck bed, so if styling is a factor, make sure you compare what each model will look like before buying.
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Soft Folding
Soft folding covers typically offer the same benefits as a roll up cover but has an aluminium frame on the inside which prevents the cover from sagging and fluttering while driving. They are typically delivered fully assembled which makes installing or removing the cover a breeze. These covers sit above the truck bed so if flush is what you want, this may not be the perfect cover for you.
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Hard Folding
Hard folding covers offer similar features as the soft folding cover, but are more robust and offer the best theft deterrent solution for your valuable cargo. These covers are typically built of aluminium and some have a fiberglass reinforced polymer surface which makes the cover dent, scuff, and ding resistant. Most can also be used to carry additional loads on top of the cover. An important consideration when purchasing a hard folding cover is that the last panel, closest to the truck cab, can fully fold up against the truck cab to offer maximum use of your truck bed.
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Hard Roll up
Hard roll up covers offer the best features between both the soft roll up covers, and hard folding covers. They conveniently roll up against the truck cab without obstructing the rear window for maximum truck bed use, and being made of aluminium, provide great content protection. They don’t take up any bed space but cannot be partially opened, they must be fully rolled up or closed.
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Retractable
Retractable covers are similar to roll up blinds you would see in your house in the fact they roll up into a canister away from sight. Contrary to hard roll up covers, the cover is stored inside the truck bed when fully rolled up. This is an important consideration as the cannister will take up permanent real estate in your truck bed. They are typically constructed of aluminium and have a very low profile.
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After discussing the various types of tonneau covers available on the market, it's important to remember that each cover type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. When choosing the right cover, it's important to consider your specific needs, such as the level of security required, the frequency of use, and your budget. Ultimately, finding the right cover will not only protect your cargo from the elements, but also ensure that your truck bed is secure and functional.
