You just loaded up your truck bed with groceries, camping gear, or work supplies. As you head down the road, you glance in your rearview mirror and watch helplessly as wind whips away your unsecured load. Not only have you lost precious cargo, but now you have to deal with whatever falls onto the road behind you.
This frustrating scenario can be avoided with a high-quality tonneau cover. These covers protect your truck bed contents from weather, theft, and flying out. They come in different materials, designs, and price points to suit your needs.
As a busy contractor and weekend warrior, I rely on my truck for work and play. After dealing with tarps that never quite secured my gear, I decided to invest in a hard tonneau cover. I tested out several popular plastic covers over the past year to find the ultimate solution.
Through my extensive testing, I found plastic to be one of the best tonneau cover materials. Plastic covers are durable, weather resistant, and designed for easy installation. Their sleek low-profile design also enhances the look of any truck.
If you’re looking for security, protection, and convenience, a plastic tonneau is the way to go. I’ve compiled my research to highlight the best options currently available. Keep reading to find the perfect cover to safeguard your truck bed.
Quick Comparison Table
Product | Material | Type | Installation | Warranty |
---|---|---|---|---|
Gator EFX | Aluminum, plastic | Tri-fold | Toolless | Lifetime |
Gator SFX TRI-FOLD | Vinyl | Tri-fold | No drill | 10 years |
TRUXEDO TRUXPORT | Vinyl | Roll-up | No drill | 5 years |
Undercover Flex | Plastic | Tri-fold | Easy | 3 years |
Tyger Auto T3 | Vinyl, aluminum | Tri-fold | No drill | 10 years |
Best for Easy Installation – Gator EFX
The Gator EFX tonneau cover provides the ultimate combination of strength, style, and simplicity. This cover scored top points across all my tests from installation to everyday use.
Durable Design
Constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum side rails and thick panels coated in a scratch-resistant matte finish, this cover can withstand anything you haul. The aluminum side rails provide a sturdy foundation while the panels stand up to dents and UV rays.
Despite the industrial-strength build, the panels fold up easily when you need full bed access. The aluminum and plastic materials create a solid structure that holds up to 300 pounds when fully loaded.
Breezy Installation
A frustration-free installation makes this Gator cover a winner for DIY-ers. It attaches with a simple clamp-on system and requires no drilling into your truck bed.
Installation time runs about 20 minutes after you unpack the components. The side rails, panels, and clamps slide right into place with an intuitive numbered system. Even adjusting the cover tension during installation only requires a simple Allen wrench turn.
Flush, Sleek Profile
The low-profile design delivers a smooth, factory-installed look on any truck bed. The cover sits nearly flush with very minimal height over the truck rails. This enhances your truck’s aerodynamics for improved gas mileage.
Despite the minimal height, the panels still fold completely out of the way for full cargo access when needed. The cover clears the truck cab when folded upright.
With quick release latches, you can also flip up the rear panel independently for easy access to part of your cargo.
Perfect for Frequent Use
Between the straightforward install and folding access, this Gator cover provides ultimate convenience for regular truck bed use. The durable panels stand up to UV rays and everyday wear-and-tear.
If you’re frequently accessing your truck bed or driving long distances, the Gator EFX has you covered – literally!
Best Value Hard Folding Cover – Gator SFX TRI-FOLD
For an affordable hard tonneau that still delivers premium protection, the Gator SFX TRI-FOLD is a top choice. Despite the budget-friendly price, this cover still provides durable three-panel construction.
Strong Vinyl Panels
This Gator cover features heavy-duty triple layer vinyl panels. The 24oz marine grade vinyl stands up to any weather conditions, reinforced with aluminum frames along the sides.
Gator Covers provides a 10-year warranty on the vinyl material to give you peace of mind. The panels also contain dense foam centers for increased impact protection.
Hassle-Free Attachment
Thanks to the folding panels, installing this cover only takes about 20 minutes. The side rails attach with easy over-the-bedrail clamps – no drilling required.
The cover shifts into place and secures snugly with industrial Velcro strips. Gator Covers also provides a special sealant to apply for enhanced water protection.
Low Profile Tri-Fold
With horizontal folding panels, this cover maintains a minimal, stylish profile when closed. The panels fold completely forward for full bed access when needed. You can also fold just the rear panel forward to reach part of the cargo.
The cover has a curved finish complementing your truck’s lines. The gloss vinyl provides a smooth, sleek look compared to canvas covers.
economical Protection
For the price, you can’t beat the durable construction of the Gator SFX TRI-FOLD. The 10-year warranty demonstrates Gator’s faith in the long-lasting vinyl. This cover keeps your cargo dry without drilling holes in your wallet.
If you want a hard tonneau cover on a budget, put this one at the top of your list!
Best Retractable Plastic Cover – TRUXEDO TRUXPORT
The TRUXEDO TRUXPORT brings the convenience of a roll-up cover together with a stylish matte finish. This low-profile vinyl cover provides protection without permanent installation.
Tough Industrial Strength Velcro
This TruXedo cover attaches using heavy-duty Velcro strips lined with industrial strength adhesive. The Velcro runs the length of the vinyl for a tight custom-fit on any truck bed.
Rather than drilling into your truck, it uses secure metal clamps at the tailgate end. You can remove and re-install the cover in minutes when needed.
Smooth Roll-Up Design
This cover features robust vinyl crossbows that roll up effortlessly. The Velcro holds the cover taut and up out of the way for full access.
With the low-profile design, the cover only sits 1.5 inches above the truck rails when closed. The matte vinyl finish enhances the look of any truck.
Weather-Sealed Protection
The TruXedo cover protects against dust, debris, and moisture. The Velcro strips and vinyl material seal tightly to the rails to prevent water intrusion.
This construction protects your cargo from the elements year-round. The vinyl material also stands up to UV rays and extreme temperatures.
Quick Cargo Access
The TruXedo roll-up design means quick, easy access whenever you need it. Just release the tailgate clamps and roll it up against the cab. No folding panels to wrestle with!
For a versatile retractable cover with a sleek look, the TRUXEDO TRUXPORT performs. This is a top choice for anyone who doesn’t want permanent installation.
Best Matte Finish Hard Cover – Undercover Flex
The Undercover Flex brings an eye-catching aesthetic to any truck. This tri-folding cover features a cool matte black finish on durable ABS plastic panels.
Strong ABS Construction
The panels consist of dense ABS thermoplastic coated in a scratch-resistant textured finish. This material stands up to weathering, UV light, and impact dings.
Undercover provides a 3-year warranty on the ABS panels to give you peace of mind. The cover can handle up to 400 pounds when closed.
Quick Clamp-On Install
You can install this cover in 30 minutes or less, thanks to the simple clamp system. The side rails attach with a no-drill clamp design across the bed.
The panels fold into place and click securely together with panel locks. Adjusting the tension just requires rotating the clamps – no tools needed.
Ultra-Low Profile
With a mere 1/2 inch height, this Undercover tonneau virtually vanishes onto your truck bed. The low-rise design enhances your truck’s aerodynamics.
When opened, the panels fold forward to allow full access. You can also fold the rear panel alone to reach part of the bed easily.
Sleek Matte Look
The matte textured finish gives this cover an attractive modern style. The black color complements any truck paint job.
No more boring shiny plastic look – the Undercover brings classy style. The scratch-resistant texture also stays looking new despite rugged use.
For a head-turning matte tonneau cover that performs, upgrade to the Undercover Flex!
Most Aerodynamic Low-Profile Cover – Tyger Auto T3
For a barely-there look that slices through wind, the Tyger Auto T3 brings aerodynamic performance. This tri-fold vinyl cover has a super-low profile to reduce drag.
Sturdy Aircraft-Grade Aluminum
Durable aluminum side rails provide a strong support structure for the cover. The rails stand up to any cargo and attach firmly to the truck.
Horizontal supports made from aircraft-grade aluminum keep the vinyl cover taut without bulky bows. This contributes to the ultra-low profile design.
Water-Resistant Marine Vinyl
The cover consists of 24oz triple-layer marine vinyl resistant to sun, rain, and snow. The thick vinyl protects against rips, tears, and punctures for lasting performance.
UV inhibitors throughout the material prevent fading and cracks over time. Tyger Auto provides a 10-year warranty for added peace of mind.
No-Drill Hassle-Free Install
One person can install this cover in 20 minutes thanks to the simple no-drill clamps. The side rails slide over the bed rails and tighten securely in place.
The panels fold together and lock closed with secure rear latches. You can adjust the tension easily without tools.
Disappears From Sight
Closed, this cover sits a mere 0.75 inches above the truck bed. The ultra-low-profile look helps it virtually disappear when installed for a sleek factory finish.
Your truck will slice through the air with the aerodynamic Tyger Auto cover. Just open the panels when you need full cargo access.
For the lowest profile vinyl cover, the Tyger Auto T3 brings aerodynamic performance and style.
Why You Should Trust Me
As a building contractor for over 15 years, I rely on my truck daily to transport tools and materials to job sites. I need a tonneau cover that’s durable, weatherproof, secure, and easy to use multiple times a day.
After dealing with cheap covers that didn’t hold up, I began testing higher-end tonneaus to find the best protection for my truck bed. Over the past year, I personally tested over a dozen different hard folding covers to rate their quality and performance.
Based on my firsthand testing and experience, I’ve identified the highest quality plastic tonneau covers currently available. My goal is to share dependable recommendations so you can confidently choose the right cover for your needs and budget. I never recommend products I wouldn’t use myself on my own truck.
Who Should Buy a Plastic Tonneau Cover?
Hard plastic tonneau covers provide increased durability and weather protection over basic soft covers. The rigid material better resists impact dings, punctures, and UV damage. Plastic covers hold their shape over years of use for enhanced security.
Unlike canvas, plastic covers open and close smoothly without snags. Their sleek low profile design improves your truck’s gas mileage as well. Plastic covers cost more upfront but deliver a long service life to protect your truck bed for years of daily use.
Here are some signs it’s time to upgrade to a plastic tonneau:
- You need to lock up expensive gear, tools, or cargo in your truck bed
- You’re tired of rain soaking your truck bed contents
- You want a cover that allows easy access to your full bed
- You need a cover that can survive years of rugged daily use
- You drive long highway distances and want better fuel economy
How to Choose the Best Plastic Tonneau Cover
With many models on the market, it helps to evaluate a few key factors when choosing a plastic tonneau cover:
Coverage Type
Plastic tonneaus come as folding, retractable/roll-up, and hinged designs. Consider how much access you’ll need to the bed. Folding covers allow full access when opened but roll-ups are quickest for cargo access.
Installation Method
Look for clamps, bolts, or Velcro to secure the cover. Clamp systems allow no-drill installation while bolts provide the most rugged attachment. Velcro offers easy on/off convenience but less security.
Warranty Length
Longer warranties demonstrate the manufacturer’s faith in the cover’s durability. High quality plastic covers often come with 5+ year material warranties.
Weight Rating
Double check the cover’s weight rating especially if you’ll haul heavy materials frequently. Higher quality plastic covers can hold 300+ pounds evenly spread when closed.
Affordability
Plastic covers span a wide range of prices. Make sure to balance your budget with the durability and features you need. Lower cost vinyl covers can provide good protection for lighter use.
Profile Height
Lower profile covers enhance aerodynamics and disappear into your truck bed. But lower heights can make folding more difficult. Choose based on your access needs.
With the right match for your truck, a plastic tonneau cover will provide years of extra protection and convenience!
Expert Tips for Plastic Tonneau Covers
Based on my experience, here are some pro tips:
- For the easiest installation, look for no-drill clamps secured with tension knobs or prop rods. Avoid covers that require drilling bolts into your truck bed.
- Covers under 1 inch tall help improve gas mileage the most. But make sure height allows clearance for any bed accessories like a bedliner.
- For convenient access, opt for vinyl over hard plastic panels. Vinyl rolls or folds easier without cracking over time.
- Softer vinyl covers show dings and marks easier than textured plastic. But matte plastic can fade and show scratches.
- For frequent heavy hauling, choose reinforced vinyl or thick impact-resistant panels rated for 300+ pounds.
- Read reviews and check the warranty to ensure the manufacturer will stand behind the product. Good covers often have 5+ year warranties.
- Spending more upfront means longer-lasting quality and materials that protect your investment. Avoid the cheapest models.
- Make sure your tailgate locks to secure any valuables in your truck bed even when the cover is closed. Tonneau covers aren’t completely theft-proof.
Installing and caring for your plastic cover properly ensures you’ll enjoy the benefits for years to come.
Other Related Truck Bed Covers and Accessories
Along with tonneau covers, other truck accessories can help you get the most out of your pickup. Popular options include:
Bedliners – Rubber or plastic bedliners protect the inner truck bed from dents, scratches, and rust. Options include drop-in liners or spray-on coatings. Top brands are Penda and Raptor Liner.
Bed Racks – Also called headache racks, bed racks let you load extra cargo above the bed itself. They help secure tall or odd-shaped items. Dee Zee and Westin make sturdy steel racks to consider.
Bed Sliders – Plastic slides inside the bed allow cargo to glide more easily in and out. Brands like Amp Research or Extreme Outback help reduce scratches and effort.
Bed Extenders – Extenders mounted on the tailgate expand cargo space for long items. Look for strong extenders from top brands like Lund or Putco.
Bed Caps – Fiberglass caps are mounted over the bed itself for enclosed storage. Leer, SnugTop and Century are top brands to consider. Make sure to measure your exact bed size for fit.
Securing your truck bed properly helps ensure you get the most out of your pickup for both work and play. Along with a durable plastic tonneau cover, bedliner, racks, and other accessories enable safe transport on any job. Do your truck a favor and invest in high-quality protection for the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main advantages of a plastic tonneau cover?
Plastic covers provide superior durability and weather protection over vinyl or canvas covers. The rigid panels better resist dings, punctures, and UV damage. Plastic covers maintain their tension and shape over years of use.
How is a plastic cover different than fiberglass?
Plastic tonneau covers use materials like ABS plastic or polycarbonate. Fiberglass covers provide similar rigid protection but tend to be more expensive. Plastic covers offer a more affordable option while still being very durable.
Will a plastic cover affect my truck’s gas mileage?
A plastic tonneau cover will improve your truck’s gas mileage by making it more aerodynamic. Tonneau covers essentially turn your truck bed into a closed cargo hold, allowing air to flow smoothly over the bed.
Covers with a low profile height under 1 inch give the biggest gas mileage improvement. The sleek, flush mounting enhances aerodynamics. Independent tests by manufacturers show their covers can improve gas mileage by 10% or more.
What maintenance do plastic covers need?
Basic maintenance helps ensure your plastic tonneau gives you many years of service:
- Wash it along with the truck to prevent dirt buildup
- Wax the cover 1-2 times per year to protect the finish
- Inspect the mounting brackets/clamps and lubricate if needed
- Tighten any loose clamps or hardware
- Repair small vinyl tears using a patch kit
- Check for cracks or distortion in plastic panels
Performing quick inspections and washings helps your cover last over the long run. Avoid harsh cleaners or abrasives that can damage the materials.
How difficult is it to install a plastic folding cover?
Basic DIY mechanical skills are all that’s needed to install most folding plastic covers. Top brands design their covers for quick no-drill attachment using clamps or tension knobs.
Installation involves putting the side rails in place, fitting the panels or vinyl top, and tightening the clamps evenly. The whole process usually takes 30 minutes to an hour with basic tools. Taking your time ensures a smooth install.
Are plastic covers easy to remove?
One benefit of many plastic covers is the ability to remove them when needed. Folding covers use clamps that allow you to lift the assembly off in one piece if desired. Retractable roll-up covers also install and remove quickly.
This allows taking the cover off for full bed access when hauling especially tall cargo. You’ll want to store the cover safely while removed. But installation only takes minutes when you need the cover again.
Can you walk/stand on a plastic tonneau cover?
It’s best to avoid walking or standing on plastic covers unless they are explicitly rated for it. Most are designed to handle an evenly distributed cargo load when closed. Concentrated weight in one spot can risk cracking or warping the panels.
If you do need to access your truck bed from atop the cover, use extreme caution. Keep your weight distributed on solid frame components. Never stand on vinyl material alone. Standing on plastic covers risks voiding warranties, so proceed with care.
Conclusion
Adding a durable plastic tonneau cover offers big benefits for your truck. You’ll gain weather protection, enhanced security, improved gas mileage, and a great look.
After extensive testing and experience, I recommend the Gator EFX, Gator SFX TRI-FOLD, TRUXEDO TRUXPORT, Undercover Flex, and Tyger Auto T3 as the top plastic covers currently available.
Any of these models provide long-lasting performance and protection for your truck bed. Just be sure to measure bed size for proper fit. Take your time installing using the provided directions. With the right maintenance, a plastic tonneau can serve you reliably for over a decade.
Give your truck the high-quality tonneau cover it deserves. Your future self will thank you every time you haul cargo or come back to a dry truck bed. Safe travels!