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How to Select the Best Tonneau Cover for Your Truck

How to Select the Best Tonneau Cover for Your Truck

Hi, Steve here from PNB Truck Parts in Madison, Wisconsin! If you’re looking to enhance your truck’s functionality, style, and security, investing in a tonneau cover is one of the best decisions you can make. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to figure out which one suits your needs best. That’s where I come in! Let’s dive into what tonneau covers are, the types available, and how to choose the right one for your truck.


What is a Tonneau Cover?

A tonneau cover is a protective covering for your truck bed that offers multiple benefits, such as:

  • Protecting your cargo from weather elements like rain, snow, and UV rays.
  • Improving fuel efficiency by reducing wind drag.
  • Providing added security by keeping your tools and gear out of sight.
  • Enhancing your truck’s appearance with a sleek and finished look.

With these benefits in mind, it’s clear why tonneau covers are a popular choice among truck owners.


Types of Tonneau Covers

Tonneau covers come in a variety of styles, each designed to meet different needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Soft Roll-Up Tonneau Covers

  • Pros: Lightweight, affordable, and easy to install.
  • Best For: Casual truck owners who need basic weather protection.
  • Features: Simple rolling mechanism and velcro or snap closures.

2. Hard Roll-Up Tonneau Covers

  • Pros: Added durability and security compared to soft covers.
  • Best For: Those looking for a balance of flexibility and toughness.
  • Features: Aluminum or fiberglass construction with a rolling design.

3. Tri-Fold Tonneau Covers

  • Pros: Quick and easy access to your truck bed.
  • Best For: Versatile use cases, from daily driving to hauling.
  • Features: Foldable panels made from aluminum or heavy-duty plastic.

4. Retractable Tonneau Covers

  • Pros: Sleek, modern design with maximum convenience.
  • Best For: Truck owners who prioritize style and ease of use.
  • Features: Sliding panels that retract into a canister.

5. Hinged Tonneau Covers

  • Pros: Solid one-piece design for maximum security and weather protection.
  • Best For: Those who need to frequently secure valuable cargo.
  • Features: Hinged mechanism for easy lift access.

6. Toolbox-Compatible Tonneau Covers

  • Pros: Combine storage with protection for your truck bed.
  • Best For: Tradespeople or anyone who needs extra tool storage.
  • Features: Designed to work seamlessly with existing toolboxes.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tonneau Cover

With so many styles to choose from, how do you pick the right one? Consider these factors:

1. Your Truck’s Purpose

Think about how you use your truck. Do you need easy access to tools? Are you hauling valuable equipment? Matching the tonneau cover to your truck’s purpose ensures you get the most value out of it.

2. Weather Conditions

Living in Wisconsin, we’re no strangers to harsh winters and rainy springs. If you need year-round protection, opt for a durable, weather-resistant cover like a hard roll-up or hinged tonneau cover.

3. Security Needs

If you often leave valuable items in your truck bed, prioritize a cover with lockable features and sturdy materials to deter theft.

4. Budget

Tonneau covers range from budget-friendly soft roll-ups to high-end retractable options. Set a budget and explore options that fit within it while meeting your needs.

5. Aesthetic Appeal

Let’s face it: a tonneau cover can make your truck look amazing. Choose a style and color that complements your truck’s appearance.


Installation and Maintenance Tips

Once you’ve chosen your tonneau cover, proper installation and maintenance are key to getting the most out of it:

  • Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions: Ensure a secure fit to prevent damage or wind noise.
  • Keep it Clean: Regularly wash your cover to remove dirt, salt, and grime.
  • Inspect for Damage: Check for wear and tear, especially after heavy use or harsh weather.
  • Lubricate Moving Parts: For retractable and hinged covers, keep tracks and hinges well-lubricated.

Visit PNB Truck Parts for Expert Advice

If you’re unsure which tonneau cover is right for your truck, don’t worry—we’re here to help! At PNB Truck Parts in Madison, Wisconsin, we stock a wide selection of tonneau covers to suit every need and budget. Our team is happy to answer your questions and guide you through the selection process.

Stop by our store or visit our website at pnbtruck.com to explore our inventory and find the perfect tonneau cover for your truck. We’re passionate about helping truck owners get the most out of their vehicles, and we’d love to help you too!

Stay safe and enjoy the road ahead. Happy trucking!

A.R.E. Videos

Why Buy A.R.E.

PEACE OF MIND A.R.E. COMP
Largest single brand manufacturer of truck caps and hard tonneau covers in the U.S.A.
Over 4 decades dedicated to manufacturing truck caps. SOME
Only ISO certified truck cap manufacturer in the U.S.A.
Over 500 dealers nationwide for support when traveling/relocating. SOME
Factory trained/certified sales and technical staff at dealerships across the country.
COMPONENTS A.R.E. COMP
OE quality hardware with 500-hour salt spray rating.
OE quality lock with OE quality features.
D.O.T. approved safety glass.
D.O.T. approved brake light.
Heavy-duty door and window frames. SOME
MATERIALS A.R.E. COMP
Extra reinforcement on cap corners and stress areas SOME
1/2" thick honeycomb reinforced roof. SOME
High fiberglass content with low ratio of filler for optimal strength and surface cosmetics. SOME
DuPont� OE basecoat/clearcoat paint to match vehicle paint code. SOME
FEATURES AND OPTIONS A.R.E. COMP
More standard features than other brands.
Remote keyless entry (locks and unlocks with your vehicle's power locks) SOME
Fastest delivery in the industry (ask about express delivery!)
WARRANTIES A.R.E. COMP
Limited lifetime warranty on paint and structure. SOME
3 Year warranty on locks. 1 YEAR
3 Year warranty on brake lights. 1 YEAR
5 Year warranty on gas props. SOME
A.R.E. TONNEAU COVER SPECIFIC A.R.E. COMP
LSII Series tonneau cover rated #1 by consumers (2004 Frost and Sullivan Award)
Modular baserail with weather-resistant seal for LSII Series.
Patented lift assist system on LSII Series. SOME
Composite clamp technology for LSII Series.
Optional Sport Wing with Hella� light.
OUR COMMITMENT TO BE THE BEST YOU CAN BUY
A.R.E. has always taken pride in providing the highest quality products possible. Our commitment to a higher quality standard was established at the founding of our company in 1969 and has remained our highest priority. Today, more than ever, we recognize that our customers work hard for their money and deserve the best value possible when buying one of our products. With this in mind, we continue to strive to maintain our commitment to you.