What Is a Tonneau Cover?
You have a variety of options when it comes to functionality and material, but tonneau covers designed to completely cover the truck bed, providing not only security and protection, but also aesthetic appeal.
You have a variety of options when it comes to functionality and material, but tonneau covers designed to completely cover the truck bed, providing not only security and protection, but also aesthetic appeal.
A truck tonneau cover comes in either soft or hard form. The soft versions will snap on to fixtures around the periphery and are relatively easy to install. The hard versions are designed to be applied in one piece and hinged for functionality or set up to fold on top of one another. In all cases, they are designed to completely cover the bed of the truck, so that everything beneath is secured and protected. For those who are especially concerned about the “look” of their truck, special low-profile covers are available that do not add any height to the truck bed.
Soft tonneau covers are typically made from durable vinyl and feature Velcro fasteners or heavy-duty plastic male to female “snap” fittings. Hardcovers can come in a variety of different materials including fiberglass, which are created in a mold to the exact size and which offer durability and strength. It’s also possible to get covers in aluminum, which will once again be fabricated in one piece at the factory or designed so that they’re made up of a large number of identical panels and can be rolled up instead. If weight is a consideration, you might choose a panel made from molded plastic which is resistant to impact but also easy to open and close.
A tonneau cover will help you to protect whatever you are carrying in the back of your truck, but it could also help you to improve your overall gas mileage. When the truck bed is completely enclosed, it will tend to lower air resistance and improve overall efficiency.
If you have questions or concerns about tonneau covers or any of your vehicle’s components, come into your local Pep Boys where we can answer any question, help you find any part, or perform any vehicle service you might need.
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