Are you looking to upgrade your Ford pickup truck and maximize its cargo capacity? Look no further! Investing in a Ford tonneau cover is a great way to achieve this goal. Not only do these covers protect any items you’re carrying, but they also look aesthetically pleasing and can add resale value.
The manufacturer of your Ford tonneau cover is an important factor to consider when deciding on a purchase. Knowing more about the manufacturer can give you a clearer picture of whether you are investing in an efficient and durable cover.
As you navigate through the options available, this guide will provide more in-depth information about the makers of Ford tonneau covers and what to look for when choosing the perfect fit for your truck.
In this blog post, we will discuss the advantages of investing in one of these covers as well as who makes them. We’ll provide insight into how a custom-fit solution could be beneficial for better protecting items that might otherwise become damaged while traveling over terrain or due to weather conditions.
So don’t sit idly by – read below to explore all the options available when it comes to finding the perfect Ford tonneau cover for your needs!
Who Makes Ford Tonneau Covers?
Contrary to what one might think, Ford does not manufacture tonneau covers themselves. Instead, they collaborate with third-party brands and manufacturers to offer these essential accessories to Ford truck owners.
Ford highly values transparency and takes pride in ensuring that customers have complete knowledge about the manufacturers of the tonneau covers they purchase. When browsing through the extensive selection of tonneau covers on the Ford accessory website, you’ll find that each cover clearly indicates its maker.
Ford has established strong partnerships with some of the most reputable names in the industry, including UnderCover, Advantage, and Retrax – all of which are subsidiaries of THI Corp., a company with which Ford maintains a close and enduring relationship.
Furthermore, THI Corp. also oversees other renowned brands such as BAK, Extang, TruXedo, BedRug, IIRC, and Roll N Lock, thereby expanding Ford’s access to nearly every major player in the tonneau cover industry.
Given the remarkable versatility of Ford trucks, numerous brands have developed tonneau covers that are compatible with most Ford models, ensuring a wide array of options for customers to choose from.
This wide range of choices allows customers to find the perfect tonneau cover that meets their specific needs and preferences, further enhancing their overall satisfaction with their Ford truck ownership experience.
See more: How Much Do Tonneau Covers Cost?
What Type Of Tonneau Covers Can You Use For A Ford?
Ford, being a widely recognized and acclaimed car brand, naturally invites a plethora of tonneau cover options to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of its truck owners. Understanding the type of truck bed you possess is crucial in making a well-informed decision. Here, we have compiled a list of the four types of tonneau covers you should consider:
Soft Roll-Up Covers
A soft roll-up tonneau cover is a type of truck bed cover that can easily be rolled up or down on the truck bed. Generally more affordable than their hard counterparts, these covers may lack in durability but they excel in providing excellent, unobstructed access to your truck bed.
Perfectly suited for shielding your truck from dust and the elements when not in use, they are however not built to withstand harsh weather conditions such as heavy rain or snow. Therefore, these covers may not be the ideal choice if you frequently encounter difficult weather conditions or require a higher level of security for your cargo.
Retractable Covers
A retractable tonneau cover is a versatile addition to your Ford truck. Typically made from a combination of robust materials such as canvas and plastic, these covers provide an effective and efficient barrier between your cargo and external elements. Superior in terms of impact resistance when compared to other types of covers, retractable tonneau covers allow you to place cargo even on top without fear of damage.
One of the key features of these covers is their locking mechanism, which ensures that the cover stays firmly in place even during transit. This prevents any unwarranted lifting or shifting of the cover, offering additional security to your cargo. Furthermore, the ease with which these tonneau covers can be opened and closed adds to their appeal, providing quick and easy access to your truck bed.
However, consumers should be aware that the durability and convenience of retractable covers often come at a premium. Due to their superior resistance to impact, the quality of materials used, and the locking mechanism, these covers generally attract a higher price tag compared to other tonneau cover types. Despite the cost, many Ford truck owners consider this a worthwhile investment due to the added security and durability offered by these covers.
Hard Folding Covers
Hard folding tonneau covers are rapidly gaining popularity among Ford truck owners, primarily due to their superior protection against theft and harsh weather conditions. These covers unfold from the back of the truck bed, offering convenient loading and unloading of cargo.
Made typically of robust materials such as steel or aluminum, hard folding covers are designed with durability and security in mind. Their sturdy construction not only guards your cargo against potential theft but also provides an effective shield from adverse weather conditions, keeping your truck bed dry and secure.
The distinctive design of hard folding covers allows for easy cargo loading. You can simply pull the cover over the top of your truck bed and lower it into place when you’re ready to load or unload items. This access convenience combined with exceptional protection and resilience makes hard folding tonneau covers an excellent investment for your Ford truck.
Hard Roll-Up Covers
The hard roll-up tonneau cover is a classic and versatile option that has been available for truck owners for quite some time. You will find it on various truck models, including those from Ford. These covers are known for their practicality and durability, being primarily used for hauling cargo and protecting the contents from various weather elements.
Constructed from sturdy materials such as metal or plastic, hard roll-up covers are designed to emulate the functionality of a tarp or canvas, but with added toughness. This design allows the cover to be rolled up when you need access to the truck bed and rolled back down for secure coverage.
Despite their practicality, hard roll-up covers may not be the most convenient option for individuals who regularly need to open and close their truck beds. Their design and material make them a bit more labor-intensive to handle compared to their soft counterparts.
However, what they lack in ease of use, they compensate for in security. These covers often come equipped with tie-downs and locks that help secure items during transit, providing an additional layer of protection for your cargo. If the security and resilience of your tonneau cover are a priority, a hard roll-up cover could be the right choice for your Ford truck.
FAQs
Navigating the wide variety of tonneau covers available for Ford trucks can be a complex task. These FAQs aim to address common queries and concerns, helping prospective buyers make an informed decision that suits their specific requirements.
Which Tonneau Cover is Best Suited for My Lifestyle?
The best tonneau cover for your Ford truck largely depends on your lifestyle and usage patterns. Soft roll-up covers are cost-effective and provide easy access, but they may not offer the highest level of protection against severe weather or potential theft.
Retractable covers, although pricier, provide superior security and impact resistance along with an efficient locking mechanism. If you frequently transport valuable cargo, this could be an ideal choice.
Hard folding covers offer a good balance between convenience and security. This type of cover might be best for individuals who need frequent access to their truck bed but also require a high level of protection.
Lastly, hard roll-up covers are highly durable and secure, but they may not be as convenient to operate as other types. If security is your top priority, this might be the best choice.
How Long Does a Tonneau Cover Typically Last?
The lifespan of a tonneau cover depends on a few factors including the type of cover, the quality of the materials used, how frequently it’s used, and the weather conditions it is subjected to.
Generally, high-quality hard tonneau covers like retractable, hard folding, or hard roll-up covers can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. Conversely, soft roll-up covers may wear out sooner due to their material and construction, but still should provide several years of good service with proper usage and care.
How Can I Maintain My Tonneau Cover to Prolong Its Life?
Regular maintenance can significantly prolong the life of your tonneau cover. Firstly, it’s important to clean your cover regularly to prevent dirt and grime from accumulating. Using a mild soap and water solution is enough for most materials, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
For hard covers, it’s advisable to occasionally lubricate the hinges and locks to ensure smooth operation. Also, to protect your cover from UV damage, consider applying a UV protectant, particularly if your vehicle is frequently exposed to direct sunlight.
Lastly, avoid putting excessive weight on your cover, especially if it’s a soft one. Following these simple steps can help ensure that your tonneau cover remains functional and attractive for many years.
Final Thought
Investing in a Ford tonneau cover is a significant consideration for any truck owner. The right cover not only secures your cargo but also extends the lifespan of your truck bed by protecting it from harsh weather conditions and potential damage. However, the diverse range of options available in the market can make the decision-making process overwhelming.
Determining the best tonneau cover for your Ford truck ultimately depends on your individual needs and lifestyle. You might value security over convenience, durability over flexibility, or perhaps you need a balance of all these factors. Regardless of your choice, it’s crucial to ensure that your cover is made from high-quality materials and is easy to maintain.
Finally, remember that the type of tonneau cover you choose should enhance your truck’s functionality and appearance, not hinder it. Whether it’s a hard roll-up, soft roll-up, hard folding, or retractable cover, your choice should make your Ford truck more efficient and aesthetically pleasing. Keep in mind, the right tonneau cover will not only protect your cargo but will also enhance your overall experience with your Ford truck.