A tonneau cover is a protective covering or lid that covers the bed of a pickup truck. It can be made from various materials such as leather, vinyl, aluminum and fiberglass. Tonneau covers provide an added layer of protection from the elements to the cargo stored in your truck bed and have become increasingly popular for those looking to customize their vehicles. They are available in many different styles and designs, making it easy to find one that suits your needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for improved fuel economy, higher security levels or just want to add some style to your ride, a tonneau cover can be a great choice for you!
Pros of Adding a Tonneau Cover
One of the main advantages of adding a tonneau cover is improved fuel economy. By covering the bed of your truck, you are reducing drag and improving aerodynamics which can help save on gas consumption. This means that you will be able to get more miles out of each tankful and potentially even save money on fueling up over time. Additionally, if the cover is made from materials such as vinyl or aluminum it can also help reduce road noise for a quieter ride.
Another benefit to having a tonneau cover installed is increased security levels for items stored in your truck bed. Many covers come with locks so that only authorized users can access them, meaning that any cargo stored in there will be kept safe from potential thieves or vandals. This added layer of protection could prove invaluable in certain situations, giving owners peace of mind when leaving their vehicle unattended for extended periods of time.
Finally, installing a tonneau cover adds an extra layer of protection against various elements including rain, snow and wind-blown debris like dust or dirt particles that may otherwise damage what’s inside your truck bed. In addition to shielding payloads from inclement weather conditions they also offer some degree UV ray protection which helps keep stored items looking new and prevents fading due to sun exposure over time
Need more reasons to add a Tonneau Cover? Check this article out or more added benefit.
Cons of Adding a Tonneau Cover
One of the main cons of installing a tonneau cover is the added cost. In addition to the initial expense for purchasing and installation, owners may need to factor in extra costs such as repairs or replacements if their cover becomes damaged or wears out over time.
Another downside to having a tonneau cover is that it can reduce accessibility to your truck bed. Depending on which type you get, some covers require removal before accessing whats inside while others offer limited access through hinged panels or zippers. This means that tasks like loading and unloading items become more difficult and less convenient than they would be without a cover installed.
Finally, installing a tonneau cover can sometimes interfere with other accessories that are meant to attach directly onto your truck bed rails such as bike racks and tool boxes. If this happens then users may have no choice but to remove the entire covering every time they plan on using those specific items which could be inconvenient depending on how often it needs done.
Types of Tonneau Covers
Soft tonneau covers are a popular option among pickup truck owners as they provide a great combination of affordability, security and convenience. These covers typically feature vinyl or canvas material that is secured to the bed rails using an adjustable tension system, meaning installation is quick and easy. Additionally, soft tonneau covers can be folded up for convenient access to the truck bed whenever needed. This makes them perfect for those who need occasional access but still want some added protection from the elements at all times. Check out this LineX article to find out which Tonneau Cover is right for you.
Roll up tonneau covers offer complete coverage of your truck bed with no gaps or openings between the cover and your vehicle’s bodywork, providing you with enhanced security levels when transporting valuable items such as tools or equipment. They also have low profiles so they don’t interfere with aerodynamics which helps improve fuel economy too. Most roll up models come in kits which include everything required for installation including frames, mounting hardware and instructions – making them relatively easy to install yourself without having to hire any extra help!
Retractable tonneau covers are ideal if you want instant access to your truck bed while still offering full protection when not in use. These systems retract into a storage compartment located at either end of the cover so that it can be deployed quickly when needed and stowed away again easily afterwards – great for those jobs where time is of the essence! Retractable models usually require professional installation due their complexity but once installed they offer unbeatable convenience and peace of mind knowing that whatever is stored inside will remain safe from intruders or harsh weather conditions alike
Installing a Tonneau Cover
Measuring the bed of your truck is an important step when installing a tonneau cover as it ensures that you get the correct size for your vehicle. This can be done with either a ruler or measuring tape and should include both length and width measurements, as well as any crossbed supports on either side. Once you have these measurements, be sure to compare them with those stated in the manufacturer’s instructions before purchasing your tonneau cover to ensure proper fitment.
Gathering the necessary tools prior to installation is also essential for ensuring a smooth process. Most manufacturers will provide detailed lists of what tools are needed along with their instructions so make sure you read through these carefully beforehand and collect everything required before beginning work on your project. Basic items such as wrenches, screwdrivers, drill bits and allen keys are usually needed but more specific pieces may also be necessary depending on which type of tonneau cover you purchase, so do some research ahead of time if possible!
Finally once all the preparations have been made it’s time to begin following the manufacturer’s instructions for installation provided by them. Typically this involves attaching mounting brackets onto both sides of the truck bed followed by securing clamps around its perimeter in order to secure it firmly in place. Depending on which type of cover you choose there may also be steps involved such as adjusting tension straps or connecting support arms again just double check against their guidelines first!
Conclusion
In conclusion, adding a tonneau cover to your truck can provide a wide range of benefits that may outweigh any negatives for many drivers. From improved fuel economy and increased security levels to protection from the elements and added convenience when accessing payloads, tonneau covers offer an all-in-one solution for those looking to upgrade their vehicle’s bed area. With so many different styles available it’s important to do your research before deciding on which one is best for you; but with professional installation help readily accessible it should be easy enough to get everything up and running in no time!
