The short answer is yes, you can put lumber under a soft tonneau cover. However, there are some important factors to consider:
Weight Capacity
- Soft tonneau covers are not built to support a lot of weight.
- Check manufacturer guidelines for weight limits. Exceeding this can damage the cover.
- Hard covers are better suited for hauling heavy lumber.
Proper Support
- Lumber should be fully supported along its length.
- Use truck bed rails or racks for support. Do not let lumber sag on the vinyl cover.
Avoiding Damage
- Sharp lumber edges can tear fabric covers. Use edge protectors.
- Condensation under the cover can warp lumber. Allow ventilation.
- Inspect cover for sagging or damage after hauling lumber.
So in summary, it is possible to haul lumber with a soft cover but special care must be taken to avoid damage.
Tips for Carrying Lumber with a Soft Tonneau Cover
Here are some useful tips if you need to haul lumber with a soft tonneau:
Use a Truck Rack
- Look for a rack designed to work with your cover.
- Racks properly support lumber and prevent cover damage.
- Options like the Access ADARAC rack are truck-specific.
Install Support Bows
- Bows or ribs help support cover fabric.
- Can be added to DIY soft covers for extra strength.
- Helps prevent sagging in the middle from weight.
Add Protective Padding
- Use edge guards or foam strips over sharp lumber edges.
- Helps prevent rips, tears and abrasion damage to the fabric.
- Makes hauling lumber safer for the cover.
Check Weight Capacity
- Never exceed the cover’s weight limit.
- Overloading can bend framework and permanently deform the cover.
- Light loads under 50 lbs are ideal for soft covers.
Allow Proper Ventilation
- Trapped moisture can warp lumber and damage the cover.
- Leave tailgate open or edges unsnapped during transport.
- Allows airflow to prevent condensation buildup.
Are There Any Special Considerations for DIY Soft Covers?
If you’re building your own soft foldable or roll-up tonneau cover, keep these tips in mind:
Use Thicker Plywood or Aluminum
- Most DIY plans call for 1/2 inch plywood.
- Consider using 3/4 inch for added strength and rigidity.
- Aluminum sheets are another lightweight but strong option.
Add Support Ribs
- Equip your custom cover with ribs or support bows.
- Helps prevents sagging under heavier cargo.
- Can be wood strips, aluminum or composite rods.
Use Durable Fabrics
- Vinyl or canvas last longer than thinner fabrics.
- Look for fabrics rated at least 24 oz/sq. yd or heavier.
- Avoid light tarp or poly fabrics that can easily tear.
Securely Mount the Cover
- Use sturdy hinges with metal backplates for folding covers.
- For roll-ups, install cover guides securely into the bed.
- This helps prevent shifting and loosening over time.
Test the Cover Before Use
- Load the cover with weighted bags to test strength.
- Check for areas that sag or gaps where water could leak in.
- Make any needed reinforcements before relying on it.
What Are Some Good Soft Tonneau Covers for Hauling Lumber?
Here are some highly rated soft tonneau covers that can handle occasional lumber hauling when used properly:
TruXedo TruXport Roll-Up Cover
- Features leather-grained vinyl top with aluminum support beams.
- Low-profile design sits 1.5 inches above the bed rails.
- Quick snap clamps for easy rolling and unrolling.
UnderCover Flex Hard Folding Cover
- Made with ABS composite panels and vinyl coated polyester fabric.
- Rigid panels provide a hard tonneau that folds for full bed access.
- Clamps onto bedrails securely.
Access Roll-Up Cover
- Uses heavy-duty 24oz marine grade vinyl.
- Dual-coated fabric is UV, water and mildew resistant.
- Bows provide ample lumber support.
BAKFlip G2 Hard Folding Cover
- Matte black single-piece hard tonneau cover.
- Foam core panel construction adds strength.
- Flips forward for full bed access.
So in summary, these soft covers combine durability, functionality and cargo protection for the occasional lumber hauling job. But always adhere to weight limits.
Can You Add a Lumber Rack to a Truck with a Tonneau Cover?
Yes, it is possible to add a lumber rack to a truck that already has a tonneau cover installed. There are a few options:
Lumber Racks for Tonneau Covers
- Several companies offer lumber racks designed to work with tonneau covers.
- Allows you to keep your cover and carry longer cargo above it.
- The Access ADARAC is a popular aluminum lumber rack choice.
Remove Tonneau When Using Lumber Rack
- You can take off the tonneau cover when hauling lumber.
- Provides full access to a standard above-bed lumber rack.
- Just reinstall the cover afterwards.
Hoist Lumber Above the Bed
- Use a removable vertical hoist to lift long lumber above the bed.
- Allows you to keep the tonneau cover on the truck.
- Hoists mount in the hitch receiver.
Add a Headache Rack
- A headache rack installs over the cab behind the tonneau.
- Provides a stopper to secure longer lumber on top of the cover.
- Protects cab from shifting loads.
So in summary, with the right accessories you can absolutely use a lumber rack on a truck with a tonneau cover installed.
Can You Make Your Own Lumber Rack for a Tonneau Cover?
Yes, you can build a DIY lumber rack to use with your tonneau cover. Here are some tips:
Choose the Right Design
- Opt for an above-bed rack that mounts to the bed instead of a headache rack.
- Allows you to keep your tonneau cover installed.
- Make sure it spans the full width of the truck bed.
Use Strong, Lightweight Materials
- Aluminum tubing or steel is best for the vertical supports.
- Top crossbars can be wood, aluminum or steel.
- Avoid heavy steel designs that put excess weight on the truck.
Add Padding
- Attach foam pads or rubber tubing where lumber will contact the rack.
- Helps prevent scratches or dents to your cargo.
Include Securing Points
- Add tie-down cleats to keep lumber stable during transport.
- Can use standard straps, nets or ratchet mechanisms.
Check Tonneau Cover Clearance
- Test fit the rack to ensure it clears the cover when installed.
- Adjust the height or position if needed.
With some DIY skills and the right materials, you can definitely build a lumber rack for your tonneau cover. Just focus on keeping it lightweight yet sturdy.
Final Thoughts
In summary, hauling lumber with a soft tonneau cover is possible as long as you adhere to weight limits, provide proper support, and take steps to prevent damage. Hard tonneau covers are better suited for frequent heavy loads.
For soft covers, using a truck rack, adding support ribs, and padding sharp edges are key for protecting your cover when you need to transport lumber. With careful use, soft tonneau covers can handle the occasional lumber run while still providing protection and versatility.