If you have a tonneau cover for your truck bed, you know how important it is to have a tight seal to keep out the elements. Over time, the adhesive weather stripping can wear out, causing gaps that let in dust, rain, and snow. Replacing just the weather stripping is an easy and affordable way to restore the seal without purchasing a whole new tonneau cover. But where can you buy the right adhesive weather stripping for tonneau covers?
What Types of Weather Stripping Can I Use For Tonneau Covers?
When shopping for tonneau cover weather stripping, you’ll typically find two main types:
Rubber Seals
Rubber seals are flexible and mold to the shape of your truck bed. They are made of materials like EPDM rubber or vinyl that resist sun damage, extreme temperatures, and moisture. Choose a density rating of at least 60 for durability. Adhesive-backed rubber seals are convenient to install.
Foam Seals
Foam weather stripping comes in various materials like polyurethane or polyethylene. Closed-cell foam is best for compressing to form a tight seal. The foam strips have a peel-and-stick adhesive backing for easy application.
Both rubber and foam seals work well to seal tonneau gap. Make sure to get weather stripping wide enough to cover the entire seam or joint. Measure first to determine the correct width and length to order.
Where Can I Purchase Tonneau Cover Weather Stripping Online?
Searching online opens up many options for buying tonneau cover seals from the comfort of home. Some top online retailers to consider include:
Amazon
With its vast marketplace, Amazon is one of the most convenient places to purchase tonneau cover weather stripping. Search for terms like “tonneau cover seal” or the specific brand of your cover to find compatible adhesive seals. Many options are available with Prime shipping.
AutoZone
Major auto parts stores like AutoZone have tonneau seals available for purchase online. Search by your truck make and model to find the right fit. Opt for delivery or in-store pickup at a location near you.
Walmart
Check Walmart online for tonneau cover seals, rubber roof seal strips, and other adhesive weather stripping that can work for your truck bed cover. Walmart offers free shipping on many items.
eBay
On eBay, you can find new and used OEM weather stripping for tonneau covers. There are also universal options to fit most standard sized truck beds. Pay attention to seller ratings and return policies.
Tonneau Cover Manufacturer Websites
Check the manufacturer’s website if you have the original tonneau cover brand name. Many offer direct replacement seals for their covers that are guaranteed to fit right.
Buying directly from the source online ensures you get the proper adhesive weather stripping for your specific tonneau cover brand and model.
What Local Stores Sell Tonneau Cover Seals?
In addition to shopping online, you can also find tonneau cover weather stripping at local automotive and hardware stores. Some options to look include:
Auto Parts Stores
Stores like AutoZone, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Pep Boys, and Napa Auto Parts stock a selection of truck bed seals and automotive weather stripping that can work for tonneau covers. Ask at the counter for recommendations.
Truck Accessory Shops
Truck outfitters, 4×4 shops, and dealers specializing in truck accessories are great places to check for tonneau cover seals. They are knowledgeable about truck bed products and often carry a wide assortment of parts.
Hardware Stores
Home improvement stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot have vinyl, rubber, foam, and metal weather stripping that can be cut to size to fit tonneau gaps. Bring your cover’s dimensions to find the right adhesive seal strip.
U-Haul Centers
Many U-Haul locations with moving truck rentals also have a shop to install hitches, wiring, and truck accessories. Check if your local U-Haul sells tonneau cover seals or similar weather stripping.
Shopping locally makes it easy to get the right weather stripping on the same day. Be sure to call around to check availability before making the trip.
Tips for Choosing the Best Tonneau Cover Seal
- Measure the length and width of the gap you need to seal to get weather stripping that fits properly. Leave an extra 1-2 inches for easier installation.
- Match the thickness of the original seal – thinner or thicker weather stripping won’t create a tight seal.
- Look at the adhesive backing to make sure it will adhere well to your tonneau cover material.
- Choose a durable material like EPDM rubber that resists UV rays, ozone damage, and extreme temps.
- Read reviews and descriptions carefully to ensure weather stripping is designed for tonneau cover sealing.
- Consider getting a name brand seal from the same manufacturer as your cover for a guaranteed fit.
With the right weather stripping, you can easily reseal gaps around your tonneau cover to keep the cargo area protected from the elements. Measuring carefully and selecting quality materials will provide long-lasting results.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing New Tonneau Cover Weather Stripping
Installing new adhesive weather stripping to seal your tonneau cover gap is a straightforward DIY project. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Clean the Surface
Use isopropyl alcohol or adhesive remover to thoroughly clean the cover’s surface where the weather stripping will adhere. This helps the tape backing stick properly.
Step 2: Measure and Cut Seal Strip
Measure along the length of the gap that needs sealing. Cut the weather stripping to this length, adding 1-2 extra inches to make installing easier.
Step 3: Remove Backing Film
Peel off the adhesive backing’s release liner or film to expose the tape. Take care not to let the adhesive side touch anything yet.
Step 4: Apply to Surface
Starting at one end, press the weather stripping firmly onto the clean surface while removing the remaining backing slowly.
Step 5: Seal the Ends
For the best seal, trim any excess weather stripping at the ends. You can use silicone or rubber cement to seal the trimmed edges.
Step 6: Apply Pressure
Use a roller tool or firmly press along the entire weather stripping with your fingers to ensure a tight bond as the adhesive cures.
Taking the time to properly clean the surface and install the new weather stripping with pressure will provide superior results. Check for any remaining gaps and repeat steps as needed until you have a continuous seal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tonneau Cover Weather Stripping
How can I tell if my tonneau cover needs new weather stripping?
Check around the cover for signs of deteriorated, cracked, or peeling seals. Also look for gaps between the cover and truck bed that allow light through. Trying spraying with a hose – if water leaks through, it’s time to replace the weather stripping.
How long does tonneau cover weather stripping last?
With proper installation and material quality, the weather stripping seal can last several years. But extreme sun and weather exposure, opening/closing friction, and normal wear will require replacing seals every 3-5 years in most cases.
Can I use rubber roof seal for my tonneau cover?
Yes, self-adhesive rubber roof seal can work well as tonneau cover weather stripping. Make sure to get rubber seal thick enough to adequately compress and fill the gap. EPDM and vinyl seals made specifically for tonneau application provide the best sealing.
What is the easiest tonneau cover seal to install?
For the quickest, easiest application, look for pre-cut adhesive-backed foam or rubber seals. They provide peel-and-stick installation with no need to cut strips to size or apply liquid adhesive. Foam seals conform to irregular truck bed shapes easiest.
Will sealing my tonneau cover help keep dust out?
Yes, proper weather stripping is important for creating a dust-proof seal. Dust particles are very fine and can easily get through small gaps. Replacing worn seals with new adhesive weather stripping will help keep truck beds dust-free.
Conclusion
Replacing worn out weather stripping is a cost-effective way to reseal and protect your truck bed without buying a whole new tonneau cover. Adhesive-backed rubber seals and foam strips make installation a breeze. Be sure to measure properly, clean the surface, and apply pressure during application.
With quality materials and proper sizing, fresh weather stripping can provide a dust and water-tight seal for years before needing replaced again. Check popular online retailers as well as local auto and hardware stores to find the right adhesive weather stripping for your specific tonneau cover model. With a perfectly sealed tonneau cover, you can keep cargo secure and protected from the elements for your truck’s hauling needs.
