Can You Use A Bed Rug With A Retractable Tonneau Cover?

A bed rug and a retractable tonneau cover are two popular truck bed accessories. But can you use them together? The short answer is yes, you can use a bed rug with a retractable tonneau cover. However, there are some things to consider to make sure they work well together.

What is a Bed Rug?

A bed rug is a cushioned truck bed liner that covers the entire bed of your truck. It is made from polypropylene carpet that is molded to precisely fit the contours of your truck bed. Bed rugs provide a cushioned, slip-resistant surface that protects your truck bed from scratches, dents, and damage.

Some key benefits of using a bed rug include:

• Cushioning and comfort – the soft carpet padding provides a more comfortable surface to kneel or stand on in the truck bed.
• Noise reduction – bed rugs dampen noise from items shifting around in the truck bed.
• Protection – bed rugs protect the actual metal truck bed from dents, scratches, rust, and damage.
• Traction – the textured carpet surface provides enhanced traction so cargo stays put.
• Aesthetics – bed rugs give your truck bed a finished, upscale look.

What is a Retractable Tonneau Cover?

A retractable tonneau cover is a truck bed cover that rolls up to provide full access to the bed. Retractable covers are made from vinyl, aluminum, or other sturdy materials.

Benefits of a retractable tonneau include:

• Full access – when rolled up, the cover allows complete, unobstructed access to the entire truck bed.
• Security – when closed, a retractable cover locks to secure gear inside the truck bed.
• Weather protection – keeps cargo safe from rain, snow, wind.
• Low profile design – rolls up out of the way for full truck bed access.
• Convenience – easily roll up or close the cover as needed.

Can You Use a Bed Rug and Retractable Tonneau Together?

Yes, you can use a bed rug with a retractable tonneau cover. The bed rug will provide a cushioned layer on top of the truck bed itself. The retractable tonneau can then open and close over the top of the bed rug.

However, there are some tips for making sure they work well together:

Ensure Proper Fit

It’s important to check the dimensions and ensure the bed rug and retractable tonneau are both precisely fitted for your specific truck make, model, and bed length. An improperly fitted bed rug or tonneau cover won’t function correctly together.

Allow for Depth

Factor in the added thickness of the bed rug when installing the tonneau rails and brackets. You don’t want the cover sitting on top of the bed rug. Allow enough height for the rug to fit underneath the rolling cover.

Mind the Gaps

Carefully check for any gaps between the bed rug and the tonneau cover. Gaps could allow dust, debris and moisture underneath the cover. Use weather stripping or sealant if needed.

Roll Up the Rug

When you have the tonneau cover fully opened, you’ll likely want to roll up the bed rug to access the full truck bed. Consider attachments to hold the rug in place when rolled up.

Proper Drainage

Ensure water can properly drain from under the tonneau cover so it doesn’t pool on top of the bed rug. Proper drainage will prevent mold and mildew.

Consider Maintenance

The bed rug may need to be removed at times for cleaning and maintenance. Make sure the tonneau mounting system allows for straightforward rug removal and reinstallation.

Will a Bed Rug Fit Under a Canister Roll Up Tonneau Cover?

A canister retractable tonneau cover has a round canister that the cover wraps around when opened. This style can accommodate a bed rug. However, the diameter of the canister will determine if the bed rug fits underneath:

• Smaller 5-6 inch canisters will have no issue fitting over a bed rug.
• Larger 8-10 inch diameter canisters may be too big to allow the rug to fit under the cover.
• Measure the canister on your truck carefully to ensure adequate clearance over the bed rug.
• Thinner, low profile bed rugs will have the best fit and functionality under a canister style retractable cover.

Will a Bed Rug Work With a Folding Tonneau Cover?

You can install a bed rug under a folding tonneau cover. Folding covers have panels that fold up accordion-style. However, folding covers have some challenges:

• Panels resting on the rug – With the cover folded up, the panels will rest directly on top of the bed rug. This puts focused pressure that can crush or flatten sections of the bed rug over time.
• Interference when folding – A thick bed rug may get in the way when folding the panels. There could be interference or resistance that prevents smooth operation.
• Drainage impediment – Folding panels resting on the rug can block proper drainage from the truck bed. Trapped moisture could lead to mold or mildew.

While you can install a bed rug under a folding tonneau cover, it is not an ideal combination. A retractable roll up cover is better suited for use with a bed rug.

Will a Bed Rug Work with a Roll Up Tonneau Cover?

A roll up tonneau cover will work well with a bed rug:

• No panel interference – The cover rolls up into itself instead of folding panels. This avoids issues of the cover resting on top of the bed rug.
• Unobstructed operation – With no hinges or panels, the roll up cover easily rolls up without interference from the rug below.
• Drainage pathways – Keeping the cover fully rolled up provides drainage pathways so water doesn’t get trapped.
• Thinner profile – Vinyl roll up covers have a low profile that leaves plenty of clearance for a bed rug to fit underneath.
• Easier installation – The lack of rigid panels makes installing a roll up cover over a bed rug more straightforward.

For optimal compatibility with a bed rug, a vinyl roll up retractable tonneau cover is the best option.

How Do You Install a Bed Rug With a Retractable Tonneau Cover?

Installing a bed rug and retractable tonneau cover takes careful planning and preparation:

Step 1: Choose the Bed Rug

Select a bed rug designed specifically for your truck make, model, and bed length. Measure for a precise fit. Choose a thinner, low profile rug for best retractable cover compatibility.

Step 2: Install the Bed Rug

Thoroughly clean the truck bed. Carefully install the bed rug per the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure it is centered and covers the entire truck bed floor.

Step 3: Mark for the Tonneau Cover

With the bed rug in place, mark where to mount the tonneau brackets, rails and clamps. Check the tonneau cover installation guide.

Step 4: Allow for Tonneau Cover Clearance

Factor in the bed rug thickness. Place the brackets and rails above the height of the rug. This prevents the cover from sitting directly on the bed rug.

Step 5: Mount the Tonneau Parts

Following the cover instructions, mount the retractable tonneau rails, clamps and other parts. Leave adequate clearance above the bed rug.

Step 6: Install the Tonneau Cover

Carefully unroll the cover and attach it to the mounted rails and brackets. Ensure smooth operation rolling it up and down over the bed rug.

Step 7: Test for Gaps

With the cover closed, check around the entire perimeter for any gaps. Use weather stripping or sealant to seal gaps if needed.

Will Using a Bed Rug Void the Warranty on Your Tonneau Cover?

In most cases, adding a bed rug will not automatically void the warranty on your retractable tonneau cover. However, there are some factors to keep in mind:

• Review warranty details – check for clauses regarding modifying truck bed.
• Proper installation is key – following manufacture guidelines avoids issues.
• Allow for drainage – preventing trapped moisture helps avoid problems.
• Use recommended products – choose bed rug and tonneau brands that are known to work together.
• Check for interference – ensure smooth operation of the cover over the bed rug.
• Damage from improper use – verify the cause of any failure before assuming warranty claim.

As long as you install the bed rug and tonneau properly, following the manufacturers’ instructions, using the two together should not impact the tonneau warranty. But always check your specific warranty policy details.

What Are the Main Benefits of Using a Bed Rug With a Retractable Tonneau?

Combining these two popular truck bed accessories provides several advantages:

• Protection – The bed rug cushions and protects the truck bed itself from damage. The tonneau cover shields cargo from weather and theft. Using both provides comprehensive protection.
• Cushioning – The soft bed rug provides a more comfortable work surface for kneeling or standing to access cargo.
• Noise reduction – With both accessories installed, noise from cargo movement is greatly reduced.
• Aesthetics – The coordinated bed rug and tonneau cover give the truck bed a streamlined, stylish look.
• Versatility – Roll up the tonneau for full access when needed, roll it back down to keep cargo contained and secure.

Using a bed rug and retractable tonneau cover together combines the benefits of both products for optimal truck bed protection and usability.

What Are the Main Drawbacks of Using a Bed Rug With a Retractable Tonneau?

While compatible, there are some potential downsides to using a bed rug with retractable tonneau:

• Higher cost – You have to purchase both the bed rug and tonneau cover, increasing the total expense.
• More difficult installation – Getting the bed rug and tonneau to work smoothly together takes precise installation.
• Maintenance – The bed rug will need periodic cleaning and upkeep that may require removing the tonneau cover.
• Drainage impediment – The bed rug can potentially block water drainage under the tonneau cover. Trapped moisture could lead to mold or mildew.
• Interference concerns – If the bed rug is too thick it could obstruct smooth operation and rolling of the tonneau cover.
• Difficulty accessing cargo – The bed rug folds up when retracting the tonneau cover, making it hard to reach items at the front of the bed.

While the benefits often outweigh the drawbacks, it’s important to consider these potential disadvantages. Proper installation and maintenance is key.

What Are Expert Tips for Making a Bed Rug and Tonneau Cover Work Together?

Here are some pro tips from truck experts for optimal use of a bed rug with retractable tonneau:

• Do test fittings – Test fit components before permanent installing. Make sure bed rug and tonneau roll up/down smoothly.
• Allow for drainage – Provide adequate drainage pathways for water to prevent pooling on the rug.
• Seal gaps – Use weather stripping to seal any gaps between the tonneau cover and the bed rails.
• Roll up rug when opened – Roll up the bed rug when tonneau is open to keep the rug from obstructing access.
• Use support bows – Install tonneau cover support bows to keep the cover from resting on the bed rug when closed.
• Consider low profile rug – A thinner, low profile bed rug will have less impact on tonneau operation.
• Check for wear – Periodically inspect the underside of tonneau cover for any unusual wear caused by the bed rug.
• Clean regularly – Follow manufacturer guidelines for properly cleaning the bed rug to prevent mold or mildew.

Can You Put a Plastic Bed Mat Over a Bed Rug?

Truck owners sometimes layer multiple bed protections, but is adding a plastic bed mat on top of a bed rug advisable? Here are some key considerations:

• May impair rug cushioning – The plastic mat compresses the soft carpet fibers, reducing the bed rug’s cushioning ability.
• Traps moisture – Plastic resting on the rug can trap moisture, leading to mold and mildew growth.
• Interferes with retractable cover – The added mat thickness could obstruct smooth operation of a roll up tonneau.
• Provides minimal benefit – With a quality bed rug already installed, the plastic mat is redundant.
• Voids warranty – The rug manufacturer’s warranty likely prohibits adding a plastic liner on top.

While you can technically install a plastic bed mat over a bed rug, doing so provides little added benefit and could impair proper functioning. It’s best to use one truck bed protection or the other.

What Are the Best Bed Rugs to Use With a Retractable Tonneau Cover?

Certain bed rug brands are ideal choices for pairing with a retractable tonneau cover:

• BedRug – The original molded bed rug company. Provides precise fit and low profile rugs.
• Wise Industries TorchLiner – Thinner molded rugs adept at fitting under covers.
• Rugged Liner – Low pile rugs specifically designed for retractable tonneaus.
• BedTred – Certain thin BedTred models have retractable tonneau compatibility.
• OEM Tonneau Cover Bed Rugs – Some brands offer rugs crafted to integrate with their covers.

Look for rugs advertised as “Tonneau Cover Compatible” from reputable brands that specialize in truck bed liners and rugs. Do your research to ensure optimal compatibility.

5 Key Takeaways – Using a Bed Rug With a Retractable Tonneau Cover

1. Yes, you can install a bed rug underneath a retractable roll up tonneau cover. But proper installation is crucial.
2. Allow for the rug thickness when positioning tonneau mounting hardware to prevent the cover resting on the rug.
3. A roll up vinyl tonneau is ideal. Folding panel covers have more issues with bed rug compatibility.
4. Be mindful of potential drainage problems that could lead to trapped moisture and mold concerns.
5. Selecting a low profile, tonneau-compatible bed rug model provides the best functionality.