Tonneau Covers 101: Reasons to Invest In One

What is a Tonneau Truck Cover? 

A tonneau cover is a rectangular material that is either hard or soft and fits over the truck bed’s opening. Tonneau covers can come in soft vinyl, hard aluminum, or other material options. Depending on the type of material, some tonneau truck covers allow you to roll them, while others will enable you to retract them with a button. Hard tonneau covers are typically pricier than soft ones since they offer more protection from the elements. Overall, tonneau truck covers can be an excellent way to keep your cargo safe and preserved. 

Do Tonneau Covers Improve Fuel Economy?

A tri-fold bed cover can indeed keep your cargo from being ruined by the elements. However, did you know that these tools can help decrease fuel costs? The open cargo area catches wind when you drive your pickup without a covering over your truck bed. This situation causes drag on your vehicle, which can slow it down.

A tonneau cover can eliminate this problem by covering up the cargo bed’s open area, which improves your truck’s aerodynamics and does away with the airflow. Ultimately, folding tonneau covers can eliminate the drag on your vehicle and, in turn, improve your gas mileage. 

Do They Keep Rain Out?

Has this ever happened to you? You’re heading to a job or camping trip with your cargo bed loaded with the needed materials. Suddenly, you start to see a few drops of rain on your windshield and realize that rain will get on your items. 

The tonneau cover shines when it comes to protecting your cargo from poor weather. A folding tonneau cover can protect your cargo bed and any items from rain or snow if installed correctly. 

However, it’s important to remember that no tonneau covering is 100% waterproof. There is always a possibility that some moisture can still make its way into your cargo bed. Nevertheless, tonneau covers can significantly reduce water getting into your truck. 

Certain tonneau covers are more water resistant than others: 

• Hard High-top – This type of tonneau covering goes past the bed rails and tailgate and likely lets in the least amount of water because of how much of the truck bed it covers. Again, it may still let in some water simply because the rain could still enter. However, hard top tonneau covers will likely let in the least water because of their composition. Hard tonneau covers can also be known as hinged covers because of the shape of the top and the fact that it has a locking mechanism. The Undercover ArmorFlex Tonneau Cover – AX12022 and Undercover SE Hard ABS Hinged Tonneau Cover – UC1116 are good examples of hard-hinged tonneau covers.  
• Folding tonneau covers – These can be either hard or soft and offer reasonable protection against water. However, it’s important to remember that water can still seep through the sides of these covers. Depending on the materials you transport, you may want to invest in a hard folding tonneau cover as it can offer even more protection from the rain. The BAK Industries BAKFlip MX4 Tonneau Cover – 448130 and Smittybilt Smart Cover Soft Folding Tonneau Cover – 2630031 are examples of hard and soft folding tonneau covers.  
• Retractable covers – These are covers that can be engaged by clicking a button on a key fob. In theory, they are easy to use but require a more involved installation, as holes may have to be drilled into the truck and a canister has to be installed that houses the retractable tonneau cover. While they can protect against rain and snow, icy conditions can keep the retractable roof from operating correctly. Check out the Retrax RetraxPRO XR Tonneau Cover – T-80378 and Roll N Lock E-Series Locking Retractable Tonneau Cover – RC226E for two good retractable tonneau cover options.  
• Roll-up covers – These covers are typically lightweight and easy to install. They may also be cheaper than harder tonneau covers. You can get a roll-up cover with hard or soft material, depending on your needs. The soft roll-up cover will be more affordable but may not offer the same level of protection as a hard tonneau cover. Take a look at the BAK Revolver X2 Hard Roll Up Truck Tonneau Cover – 39329 and TruXedo Lo Pro QT Soft Roll Up Tonneau Cover – 597701 for examples of hard and soft roll-up tonneau covers.  

The type of tonneau cover you select will depend on budget and preference. It can also depend on the weather patterns in your area. A hard top may be the way to go if you live where rain and snow are prevalent for a good portion of the year. However, a soft roll-up cover or even retractable cover may be an option if you are in a drier area.

Do They Keep Your Vehicle More Secure?

Tonneau covers offer an added level of security. First, if you’re driving in treacherous conditions without a covering, your cargo could fall out or be damaged along the way. Second, you don’t have to worry about your cargo being stolen when you park.

Tonneau covers don’t just conceal cargo; depending on the type of cover, they can lock in place. For example, a one-piece hard tonneau cover may only be able to be unlocked with keys. On the other hand, rolling or folding tonneau covers may only be unlocked with a pull cord or latch that someone can access with an open tailgate. 

Each type of tonneau cover adds a different layer of security to your truck. In this case, a hard tonneau cover will likely offer more protection than a soft cover that can be pierced or torn for access. Your preference and security needs will help you choose the best tonneau cover for your truck. 

This isn’t just a dress-up accessory for pickup trucks, and most drivers will see just how useful a tonneau cover is. At 4 Wheel Parts, you’ll find the best tonneau covers from top brands, and at unbeatable prices. Our team offers a variety of tonneau coverings for trucks. Check out our selection to find the best one for you.