If you use the tonneau cover properly, it should last up to 5 to 7 years. The durability of that cover largely depends on handling and regular maintenance. However, the durability of a tonneau cover also depends on its type, material, and build quality.
Soft Roll-up Cover
This is the cover that you can easily fit onto your truck bed. Besides, it’s easy to use and maintain. According to the users, it doesn’t disappoint in durability.
How long does it last?
Soft covers can last up to 7 to 10 years. This service period depends on usage and maintenance. Driving conditions and climate can also play a role in durability.
Maintenance Tips
- Regularly clean the outer surface of the cover. You can use water to clean up the mess. If you want to use soap, go for a mild one.
- Make sure that you never carry stuff on the cover. As the surface is soft, it can damage the cover.
Hard Roll-up Cover
A hard roll-up cover comes at a higher price than its softer counterpart. It offers an added layer of protection for the stuff on the truck bed.
How long does it last?
Hardcovers are just like soft covers in terms of features and usability. They are almost the same in terms of durability. So, hardcovers can last for the same duration as soft covers. But as hardcovers are more rugged, they can last even longer in some cases.
Maintenance Tips
- Secure the cover in its designated place before the truck goes through a car wash. No need to dismantle the cover as most of the covers can pass through a car wash.
- Use water and mild soap to clean the cover occasionally.
- Vinyl covers can be cleaned using washing liquids.
Soft Folding Cover
This type of cover is specially crafted to make them more usable. They offer almost the same features as a normal soft cover but you can fold it accordingly. You can lock the cover at any desired position.
How long does it last?
According to the users, a soft folding cover easily lasts up to 5 years. But if you take care of it regularly, it can last more than 7 years. You can encounter some issues regarding its accessories overtimes, but those are fixable.
Maintenance Tips
- Make sure that you lock the cover at its right locking positions.
- Use mild soapy water or cleaner to clean the cover.
- Occasionally check for rust and damage in the attachment mechanisms and solve them immediately.
Hard Folding Covers
Hardcovers are made of stronger materials and are meant to be used more than their soft counterparts. Hard folding covers offer all the benefits of the hard roll-ups. Besides, it can be folded according to your need.
How long does it last?
Hard folding covers last longer than soft folding covers. If the locking mechanisms are well-maintained, they can last up to 7 years or more. Regular maintenance ensures protection against rust and any subsequent damage.
Maintenance Tips
- Occasionally clean up the cover with proper soap water or cleaner.
- Replace the bolts and related mechanisms if you see any sign of rust.
One-Piece Solid Cover
Solid covers are like a firm extension of the truck body on the truck bed. These covers come in various colors. So, you can match the color with your truck’s body color. This type is the most rugged and so most expensive cover.
How long does it last?
The durability of these covers depends on the quality of the cover. Some covers are rugged enough to endure daily usages and still can last more than a decade. Besides, most of the parts can be easily changed to prolong the service life of the cover.
Maintenance Tips
- Make sure to clean underneath of the cover regularly
- It’s better not to store heavy items on the cover
Maintenance Tips in General
By going through the above section, you may have developed an idea of the maintenance of the tonneau covers. Take a glance at the maintenance list below:
Cleaning the cover
Regular cleaning is important for maintaining the cover. It helps to prevent any clog of dust and dirt on and beneath the cover surface. Mild soap water is a good companion for cleaning. But you can use cleaner if you use a vinyl cover.
Checking for damage or rust
Checking for damage is important for maintaining a cover. Rusting is harmful to the metallic component of the cover. A crack or subsequent damage can boost rusting. Therefore, it’s important to take action against it.
Ensure proper locking
If the cover is not properly locked in the designated place, it can sustain damage during the cruise. Ensure that you have properly locked the cover in the right place. This small step can prolong the durability.
FAQ
Q: Can I leave the tonneau cover attached during a car wash?
Ans: Most of the manufacturers of the tonneau covers claim that it is okay to leave the cover attached to the truck bed during a car wash. But you have to ensure that you have locked the cover properly at its designated place.
Bottom Line
Tonneau covers are rugged enough to endure daily loads. These covers don’t even need a lot of afford to be in perfect condition. You can protect the tonneau cover by following some simple but useful tips from damage. If you are a fastidious person like me then you can follow some additional tips to always look your tonneau cover new.
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