If the security of your cargo is one of your top priorities, it’s important to consider all the options for protecting your truck bed. Roll up tonneau covers are an increasingly popular choice for providing additional protection for pickups and other vehicles while still allowing quick and easy access when needed.
But before you make the decision to invest in a roll up tonneau cover, it’s important to understand how secure they actually are. In this blog post we’ll dive deeper into exactly how safe roll up tonneau covers are and investigate whether or not they should be part of your cargo-protection arsenal.
What Are Roll Up Tonneau Covers?
Roll up tonneau covers are a type of truck bed cover designed to protect cargo from exposure to the elements and potential theft. They are named for their ability to quickly roll up and out of the way when access to the bed is needed.
Unlike hard tonneau covers which are often heavy and cumbersome, roll up versions are typically lightweight, flexible, and easy to use. They are usually made from durable materials like vinyl or cloth backed with aluminum or steel rods for added strength and security.
Despite their seemingly simple design, roll up tonneau covers offer a decent level of security. With a proper locking mechanism, they can deter casual theft. However, it’s important to note that they are not as secure as their hard cover counterparts. A determined thief with the right tools can cut through the material.
One major advantage of roll up tonneau covers is their ease of use. They can be quickly rolled up to allow full access to the truck bed, making them an ideal choice for those who frequently need to load and unload large items.
In conclusion, while roll up tonneau covers may not provide the highest level of security compared to hard tonneau covers, they do offer a good balance of protection, convenience, and affordability. Therefore, they can be a great addition to your cargo-protection arsenal, depending on your specific needs and circumstances.
Are Roll Up Tonneau Covers Secure?
When it comes to the security of roll up tonneau covers, it’s important to remember that they are designed to deter casual theft rather than prevent all possible forms of criminal activity. While they provide a layer of protection to your truck bed and the items within, they are not foolproof.
Roll up tonneau covers are typically made of durable, weather-resistant materials like vinyl or canvas which are resilient to casual attempts of theft. However, they can be cut or pierced with a sharp object if a thief is determined enough. That said, the presence of a cover itself can act as a deterrent, as it conceals the contents of your truck bed from prying eyes.
Certain higher-end models offer enhanced security features such as aluminum slats underneath the vinyl or canvas cover, making them significantly harder to cut through. Some roll up tonneau covers even come with locking mechanisms, adding another layer of protection. However, these models are generally more expensive.
In summary, while roll up tonneau covers do provide an extra layer of protection for your cargo, they are not completely secure. They function more as a deterrent to opportunistic thieves, hiding your cargo and providing an initial line of defense. For maximum security, it’s advisable to combine the use of a tonneau cover with other security measures, such as a locking tailgate or a truck bed toolbox.
See more: Are Tonneau Covers Easy To Install?
Benefits When Using Roll Up Tonneau Covers
Roll up tonneau covers offer a range of benefits that extend beyond their primary function of cargo security. These versatile covers can enhance your vehicle’s overall utility and performance.
Firstly, roll up tonneau covers can contribute to better gas mileage. When the truck bed is open to the wind, it can create aerodynamic drag, which can decrease fuel efficiency. By providing a sleek, flat surface that deflects wind over the truck bed, a roll up tonneau cover can reduce this drag and potentially save you money on fuel in the long run.
In addition to improved fuel efficiency, these covers also offer enhanced flexibility in terms of cargo management. Given their design, they allow for easy access to your truck bed and can be quickly rolled out of the way when you need to transport larger items.
Protection from the elements is another significant benefit of roll up tonneau covers. Whether it’s intense sunlight in the summer or snow and rain in the colder months, these covers protect your cargo and the truck bed itself from weather-related damage. This can help maintain the longevity and resale value of your vehicle.
Lastly, roll up tonneau covers can also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your truck. Available in a variety of styles and finishes, these covers can complement the overall look of your vehicle while providing practical benefits.
FAQs
There are many questions that arise when considering the purchase of a roll up tonneau cover. Here are some commonly asked questions that can help you make an informed decision.
How does a roll up tonneau cover secure?
Roll up tonneau covers secure by either a latch mechanism or a locking system. The way it secures largely depends on the specific model. The latch mechanism allows for quick and easy opening and closing of the cover.
For additional security, some models come with a locking system that further prevents theft. However, it’s important to remember that while these features add a layer of security, they don’t make the cover completely theft-proof.
Can roll up tonneau covers withstand harsh weather conditions?
Yes, roll up tonneau covers are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. They are typically made from durable materials like vinyl or canvas that are resistant to weather effects.
This means they can protect your cargo from rain, snow, and extreme sunlight. In addition, the materials used are usually UV-resistant, which helps prevent the cover from fading over time due to exposure to sunlight.
How do roll up tonneau covers contribute to fuel efficiency?
Roll up tonneau covers contribute to fuel efficiency by reducing aerodynamic drag. When the truck bed is open, it catches wind, creating a drag that can reduce your truck’s fuel efficiency.
A tonneau cover provides a flat surface that deflects the wind over the truck bed, reducing this drag. It’s estimated that a tonneau cover can improve fuel efficiency by up to 10%, but this can vary based on driving conditions and habits.
Can a roll up tonneau cover be used with a truck bed liner?
Yes, roll up tonneau covers can be used with most truck bed liners. Whether your truck bed liner is a drop-in or spray-on type, a roll up tonneau cover can usually be installed without any issues. However, it’s always a good idea to check with the manufacturer or retailer to make sure that the specific cover you’re considering is compatible with your truck bed liner.
Final Thought
Choosing the right tonneau cover for your truck is a matter of assessing your needs and priorities. While roll up tonneau covers may not offer the highest level of security, they do provide substantial deterrent against opportunistic thefts, along with numerous other advantages.
Their flexibility in cargo management, improved fuel efficiency, and protection against harsh weather conditions all add value beyond their basic function. The aesthetic appeal they bring to your vehicle is an added bonus, enhancing your vehicle’s overall look while also serving practical benefits.
It’s important to remember that no tonneau cover is completely theft-proof. Thus, it’s advisable to combine the use of a roll up tonneau cover with other security measures to ensure maximum protection for your cargo.
Ultimately, a roll up tonneau cover is a valuable accessory that can enhance your truck’s functionality and appearance. When chosen wisely, it can serve you well, providing a beneficial balance of security, versatility, and style.