Should I Roll Up Or Fold My Tonneau Cover When Not In Use?

What factors should I consider when deciding between rolling up or folding my tonneau cover?

Pickup truck tonneau covers provide many benefits like weather protection, security, improved gas mileage, and cargo containment. However, when the truck bed access is needed, a key decision is whether to roll up a soft vinyl cover or fold a hard folding cover. There are pros and cons to both methods, so what is the best option for your needs?

How easy and quick is it to open and close each style?

Roll-up tonneau covers are generally faster and simpler to open and close. Many can be opened from either side of the truck bed in seconds by releasing clamps or breaking Velcro seals. Soft vinyl roll-ups simply roll up with the help of a spring loaded roller tube. So for pure speed and convenience of opening/closing, roll-ups win.

However, hard folding covers require manually folding panels, releasing buckles and latches. So roll-ups have the edge for quick and easy bed access. But folding panels takes just minutes, so the extra time may not be a deal breaker if better security is needed.

How durable and secure is each type of tcover?

Hard folding tonneaus made of aluminum panels or fiberglass reinforced polymer offer more strength and durability. Thick aluminum frame construction makes them virtually impenetrable when locked.

Soft roll-up covers have the disadvantage of thin vinyl that could potentially be cut through with a sharp knife. The lack of hard panels leaves roll-ups more vulnerable to break-ins.

So for maximum security and peace of mind, hard folding covers are the clear winner. Their heavy duty build and lockable design provide unbeatable truck bed protection.

What about ease of use and vinyl care over time?

Roll-up covers with Velcro fastening systems can wear out and lose effectiveness over years of use. The hook and loop material weakens and does not stick as tightly. Snaps too can deteriorate and pop open unexpectedly.

Folding covers, on the other hand, use solid metal buckles, hinges and latches that maintain integrity. Their solid locking mechanisms provide reliable strength and function.

For long term performance and hassle free use, hard folding covers again have the advantage. Their robust design stands the test of time.

How does each type affect truck bed storage when closed?

With a soft roll-up cover, the rolled vinyl takes up some space along one side of the truck bed when fully closed. This may impinge on cargo capacity and bed access compared to a fully flat folding cover.

However, a tri-fold tonneau has its folding panels stacked together when closed. This leaves usable dead space that can be difficult to access.

So for maximizing enclosed storage, roll-ups allow full bed usage, though folding covers can allow some usable space with effort. It depends on specific cargo needs.

Do certain accessories or add-ons affect the choice?

Some tonneau cover supplementals can help guide the roll-up vs folding decision:

• Toolboxes: A toolbox may be easier to install with a roll-up tonneau that can simply unroll above it. Some folding covers may not accommodate a toolbox’s height when closed.
• Roof racks: Folding covers can more easily allow roof rack, basket, or lighting accessories to be mounted above the bed rails vs. a roll-up. Multi-tier accessories are simpler with a hardcover.
• Bed rail caps: These ancillary upgrades fit better aesthetically with a folding cover that has a continuous top surface profile vs potential gaps a soft roll-up may create.
• Bed liners: An aftermarket spray-in bed liner can be installed easily with either a roll-up or folding truck bed cover already on the truck. Both cover types accommodate bed liners.

So existing accessories or future add-ons may dictate one design over the other. Check clearance issues before deciding.

How important is keeping cargo protected from weather and dust?

Hard folding covers typically seal tighter against weather due to their solid panel construction and robust perimeter seals. Most offer excellent dust and moisture protection when locked.

Vinyl roll-ups tend to be more prone to allowing fine dust and dirt particles into the truck bed if not fitted tightly. Seals can leak over time too.

So for the most impenetrable protection from rain, snow and dust, hard folding tonneaus are the best bet. They create a tighter Seal against the elements.

Does aesthetic appearance help choose one over the other?

This is a subjective consideration that varies by individual tastes, but:

• The smooth, continuous surface of a hard tri-fold cover when closed can look sleeker and more upscale, complementing the truck styling.
• A soft roll-up may appear more low profile and utilitarian, preserving the original truck bed proportions.

So style preference may dictate this choice. A glossy color-matched hardcover creates a seamless look, while a matte vinyl roll-up maintains factory bed dimensions visually.

How do special use cases affect the decision?

For some unique truck bed applications, the right pick becomes clearer:

• Off-roading: A hard folding cover’s panels can take more jostling and impact from rough terrain vs. a softer roll-up cover prone to vinyl damage.
• Fifth wheel towing: Removing a hardcover for hitch access takes more time vs. a quick unrolling soft cover. Roll-ups have the speed advantage here.
• Fuel economy: At highway speeds, roll-up covers are less aerodynamic, potentially impacting mpg more than a sleek tri-fold. Hard covers eke out slightly better fuel efficiency.
• Commercial use: Businesses often value security. A lockable hardcover offers better protection of tools and materials from job sites compared to soft covers.

So think about your specific tonneau usage to further guide this decision. Custom applications make the right choice clearer.

What maintenance factors should influence my selection?

Soft roll-up tonneaus require more frequent cleaning and vinyl care to keep them looking good and prevent mold, mildew and fading. Special vinyl cleaners and conditioners are recommended.

Hard folding covers are more hassle-free, just needing occasional washing. Their durable polymer or aluminum materials are easy to maintain long-term. No special treatments needed.

If you wish to minimize maintenance, go with a hardshell. But if you do not mind frequent vinyl care, a soft roll-up can work. It depends on your willingness to clean and protect the cover.

How important is long term durability and lifespan?

Aluminum hard covers are virtually indestructible, providing 20+ years of reliable use. The material withstands harsh weather and use without damage.

Vinyl soft roll-up covers average 4-8 years lifespan as seams, snaps and Velcro wear out before the vinyl itself fails. They require replacement more often.

So for a lifetime truck bed cover solution, hard folding is the clear choice. If replacing covers periodically is acceptable, soft vinyl roll-ups can still be cost effective.

How do installation challenges compare?

Soft roll-up covers:

• Are quicker to install with easy to position side rails clamped on the bed walls.
• No hinges to align during the process.
• The vinyl top unrolls and snaps onto rails in minutes.

Hard folding covers:

• Take longer for DIY installs due to panel alignment and adjusting the hinge positions.
• Improper hinge adjustments can lead to leaking, so precision is key.
• Installation is straightforward but more labor intensive than roll-ups.

In summary, soft roll-up covers involve a faster, simpler install for most do-it-yourselfers. But some added effort is worthwhile for a hardcover’s enhanced security and performance.

Conclusion

When choosing whether to roll or fold your tonneau cover, key considerations include speed of opening/closing, security, durability, appearance, maintenance needs, specialty usage, and installation difficulty.

For simplicity and convenience, soft vinyl roll up covers are hard to beat. But for maximum protection, long term performance, and premium appearance, hard folding covers like aluminum tri-folds are superior.

Think about which features matter most for your truck bed use and needs. This helps determine if the pros of a quick roll-up or sturdy fold-up cover align best with your priorities. With all factors weighed, you can confidently decide on the ideal type of tonneau cover for your pickup.