When it comes to safeguarding your truck’s bed, you have several options–soft roll up tonneau covers are among the most popular. But is a soft roll up tonneau cover really worth the investment? To help you make an informed decision about such an important purchase for your truck, this blog post takes a closer look at these products and outlines why they could be the perfect addition to your vehicle.
Weighing in on key factors such as cost, installation/maintenance requirements, protection against theft and weatherproofing capabilities, we give you all of the information that you need to determine if getting a soft roll up tonneau cover is right for you.
What Is Soft Roll Up Tonneau Cover?
A soft roll up tonneau cover, as the name suggests, is a flexible cover that easily rolls up to allow access to the truck bed. It’s typically constructed from high-grade vinyl for durability and a sleek, stylish finish. While not as robust as a hardcover, it offers a level of protection that can adequately safeguard against common accidents and weather elements.
Cost-effectiveness is one of the major selling points of a soft roll up tonneau cover. Generally, these covers are significantly cheaper than their hardcover counterparts, making them an attractive option for truck owners on a budget. Yet, despite the lower cost, they don’t compromise on quality. Many top-rated soft roll up tonneau covers are praised for their dependability and longevity.
Installing a soft roll up tonneau cover is usually a straightforward process, often requiring no drilling or special tools. This simplicity saves the vehicle owner from paying additional installation costs and makes routine maintenance a breeze. However, it’s recommended to regularly clean the cover and lubricate the rails for smooth operation and to extend its life.
The protection against theft offered by a soft roll up tonneau cover might not match that of a hardcover, but it still serves as a deterrent. Most covers can be locked, keeping your belongings out of sight and out of reach from opportunistic thieves. Furthermore, being weatherproof, these covers shield your truck bed and cargo from rain, snow, sun, and dust, helping to maintain the value and functionality of your vehicle.
Are Soft Roll Up Tonneau Cover Worth It?
In determining the worth of a soft roll up tonneau cover, it is essential to consider your specific needs and circumstances. If you are a casual truck user who requires basic protection for your vehicle, then a soft roll up tonneau cover may be an excellent choice. It offers reliable protection from the elements and a necessary deterrent against theft, all while being budget-friendly.
However, if your truck frequently carries valuable items or you live in an area where theft is a significant concern, a hardcover might provide more peace of mind. Although typically more expensive, hardcovers offer superior security and tend to have a longer lifespan.
Soft roll up tonneau covers also shine in terms of ease of use and maintenance. The fact that these covers are lightweight and easy to install makes them especially convenient for truck owners who need frequent access to their truck bed. Furthermore, the minimal maintenance requirements—simply cleaning and lubricating the cover and rails—mean you can avoid costly professional services.
Yet, it’s important to note that while soft roll up tonneau covers are generally durable, they may not withstand harsh conditions as well as hardcovers. If your truck is frequently exposed to extreme weather conditions, a hardcover might be a better long-term investment.
See more: What Is The Difference Between A Bed Cover And A Tonneau Cover?
How to Maintain Soft Roll Up Tonneau Cover
Maintaining your soft roll up tonneau cover is essential for extending its lifespan and ensuring it stays in good condition. Here are a few tips that can help you keep your cover looking like new and functioning at its best.
Firstly, regular cleaning is vital. Use a mild soap and water, or a cleaner specially designed for tonneau covers. Avoid harsh detergents or chemicals that can damage the vinyl. Rinse thoroughly and allow it to air dry. Clean your cover at least once a month or whenever it gets dirty.
It’s also important to lubricate the rails and latches of your tonneau cover. This ensures smooth operation and prevents rusting. Use a silicone-based lubricant and apply it sparingly on the rails, taking care not to over-lubricate.
Another tip is to ensure your cover is properly tensioned. This improves its performance and reduces the chances of water pooling on top of the cover. Most soft roll up tonneau covers have adjustable tension controls. Check your manufacturer’s instructions on how to adjust the tension.
Keeping your cover rolled up when it’s not in use is another way to prolong its life. This can prevent unnecessary exposure to the elements. Just ensure it’s properly secured so it doesn’t flap around and cause damage while you’re driving.
Finally, if your cover has a velcro fastening system, keep the velcro clean. Dirt and debris can reduce its effectiveness. Use a soft brush to gently remove any debris from the velcro.
FAQs
Soft roll up tonneau covers have been growing in popularity due to their affordability, ease of use, and protection capabilities. Although not as robust as hardcovers, they offer sufficient protection for most truck owners. Here are some frequently asked questions to further aid you in deciding whether a soft roll up tonneau cover is the right choice for you.
How long does a soft roll up tonneau cover typically last?
Soft roll up tonneau covers are designed for durability and can typically last for several years with proper care and maintenance. Factors such as the quality of the cover, the weather conditions it is exposed to, and how well it is maintained can all affect its lifespan. As a general rule, higher-quality covers that are well-maintained should last longer.
While the material of the cover is designed to withstand the elements, it is still susceptible to wear and tear over time. Regular cleaning and lubrication, as well as keeping it rolled up when not in use, can help extend its lifespan. It is also recommended to replace the cover if it shows signs of significant wear or damage to ensure your truck bed remains protected.
Can soft roll up tonneau covers be used in extreme weather conditions?
Soft roll up tonneau covers are designed to be weatherproof and can generally withstand a range of weather conditions, from rain and snow to sun exposure. They are made from high-grade vinyl, which is designed to be weather and UV resistant. This means that they should hold up well in most weather conditions and provide adequate protection for your truck bed and cargo.
However, in extreme weather conditions, such as heavy snowfall or intense heat, a soft roll up tonneau cover might not offer the same level of protection as a hardcover. The vinyl material can become more susceptible to damage in these conditions, and the cover may not support the weight of heavy snow. If your truck is regularly exposed to harsh weather, it might be worth considering a hardcover for added durability.
How secure is a soft roll up tonneau cover?
While a soft roll up tonneau cover may not offer as much security as a hardcover, it still provides a significant deterrent against theft. The cover can be locked, making it more difficult for opportunistic thieves to access the truck bed. In addition, by keeping your cargo out of sight, it reduces the chances of theft.
It’s important to note that while a soft roll up tonneau cover can deter casual thieves, it may not stand up to a determined thief with the right tools. For those requiring extra security, especially when frequently carrying expensive items, a hardcover may be a more suitable option. However, for most truck owners, a soft roll up tonneau cover should provide sufficient protection.
Final Thoughts
Investing in a soft roll up tonneau cover could be a wise decision for many truck owners. Its relative affordability, ease of installation and maintenance make it an attractive choice. Specifically for those who want quick and frequent access to their truck bed, a soft roll up cover is hard to beat.
However, these advantages should be weighed against potential limitations in durability and security compared to hardcovers. For truck owners living in harsh weather conditions, or those who need high-level security, a hard tonneau cover might offer better value.
On balance, soft roll up tonneau covers represent a practical solution for many users. They effectively shield the truck bed and cargo from inclement weather, while offering an extra layer of security. Their simplicity and functionality, coupled with proper maintenance, can ensure many years of service.
In conclusion, the question of whether a soft roll up tonneau cover is worth it depends largely on individual needs and circumstances. It’s recommended to consider your specific requirements, local weather conditions, and budget before making a decision.
Regardless of the choice made, proper care and maintenance of the cover is critical to prolong its lifespan and ensure its effectiveness in protecting your truck bed.