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What Causes Velcro Strips On Tonneau Covers To Wear Out?

Tonneau covers are a popular truck accessory that provide protection and security for the truck bed and cargo. Many tonneau covers utilize velcro strips to secure the cover, especially soft roll-up and folding covers. However, over time the velcro can wear out and lose its stickiness. What causes the velcro strips on tonneau covers to wear out prematurely?

Why Do The Velcro Strips Wear Out On Tonneau Covers?

Velcro relies on the tiny hooks and loops to adhere and grip together. But constant opening and closing, along with exposure to dirt, sun, and moisture can break down the hooks and loops causing the velcro strips to lose their stickiness. Tonneau covers experience a lot of wear and tear through regular use which leads to velcro deterioration.

Does Exposure To Dirt And Debris Cause Velcro Strips To Wear Out Faster?

Yes, buildup of dirt, dust, and debris on the velcro strips is one of the main culprits of premature velcro wear. The accumulation gets stuck in the tiny hooks and loops which prevents the two sides fromgripping together firmly. Frequent cleaning is required to remove the debris but over time the adhesiveproperties still get affected. The velcro loses its stickiness and needs to be replaced.

Can Regular Use And Wear And Tear Cause Velcro Strips To Fail?

Absolutely, just the repeated opening and closing of the tonneau cover can wear down the velcro over time. The velcro goes through strain each time you secure or detach the cover. This frequent mechanical action slowly damages the tiny hooks and degrades the stickiness. Even the highest quality automotive-grade velcro will eventually fail after thousands of uses.

How Does A Loose Tonneau Cover Fabric Affect The Velcro Strips?

When the fabric cover becomes loose, frayed or unsecured, it impacts the velcro’s effectiveness. The velcro relies on adhering to a taut, rigid surface beneath the fabric. But if the fabric starts to sag, it compromises the velcro’s grip. The loose fabric prevents the two velcro sides from pressing together firmly. This can accelerate wear and cause the velcro to pop open easily.

Can Exposure To UV Rays From The Sun Damage The Velcro?

Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can degrade the velcro material, just like any other fabric or plastic component on your truck. The sun’s rays damage the molecular structure of the velcro loops and hooks which causes them to deteriorate faster. Even the adhesive that bonds the velcro to the tonneau cover can get affected by UV rays over time.

How To Address Worn Out Velcro Strips On Tonneau Covers

If your tonneau cover velcro is failing to stick and stay secured, there are a few ways to address it:

Can You Clean The Velcro To Help Regain Stickiness?

Regular cleaning using a stiff brush and mild soap solution can help remove accumulated dirt and refresh the velcro strips. This may help temporarily revive the stickiness. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely before reattaching the strips.

When Does The Velcro Need To Be Replaced On The Tonneau Cover?

If the velcro strips are excessively worn out with substantial fraying, bent hooks, or missing loops, replacement may be necessary. Look for heavy duty automotive grade velcro with adhesive backing to replace old strips. Carefully remove the old velcro and clean the surface before installing the fresh strips.

Will Using UV Protectants Help Extend The Life Of Tonneau Cover Velcro?

Applying UV protection sprays or treatments formulated for vinyl can help resist sun damage. These will minimize the effects of UV rays on the velcro as well as the tonneau cover fabric. Proper cleaning and conditioning is still required to keep velcro in optimum condition.

Does Velcro Replacement Vary For Different Tonneau Cover Types?

The specific velcro maintenance and replacement procedures can differ depending on your tonneau cover brand and style. Always refer to the manufacturer instructions for proper care. Soft roll up covers usually have replaceable velcro strips, while hinged folding covers may require professional reattachment if the velcro fails.

How Are The Various Tonneau Cover Types Affected By Velcro Wear?

Do Roll-Up Covers Experience Premature Velcro Failure?

Roll-up tonneaus often utilize velcro strips along the sides or seam to secure the vinyl cover. Constant rolling action strains the velcro. Exposure along the perimeter can also degrade the velcro faster. Frequent cleaning and replacing strips along the edges is recommended.

Are Folding Tonneau Covers Prone To Velcro Issues?

Hinged folding covers also rely on velcro flaps and tabs to keep the panels locked in place. Opening and closing the hard panels stresses the velcro over time. Weight on the panels when open can distort the fabric surface causing velcro detachment.

How About Retractable Tonneau Covers?

Some retractable covers feature velcro attachments for added security when closed. Theautomatic retracting mechanism reduces wear compared to folding types. But slack in the vinyl can stillallow the velcro to detach and fail prematurely. Check for proper vinyl fit and realign if needed.

Are Toolbox Tonneaus Affected By Velcro Wear?

Toolbox tonneaus utilize velcro strips around the perimeter lip to secure the vinyl cover. These are prone to debris buildup and UV exposure which degrades the velcro quickly. Lubricating the locks and hinges can help minimize velcro strain when opening the cover.

Do Snaps Experience Similar Durability Issues On Tonneaus?

Plastic snap fasteners are also common on soft tonneaus. The repetitive stress of opening and closing causes the snaps to eventually wear out and break. Sticking snaps need to be realigned or replaced. In some cases upgrading to more durable metal snaps is recommended.

Maintaining Your Tonneau Cover Velcro

Here are some tips to help prolong the life of your tonneau cover’s velcro strips:

  • Clean the velcro often using a stiff brush and mild detergent to remove dirt, grime and debris that can degrade the hooks and loops.
  • Be sure to reattach the velcro properly and press firmly across the entire strip during reattachment to maximize stickiness.
  • Avoid lifting the cover by grasping the velcro strips which can loosen and distort the fabric surface underneath.
  • Use UV protective sprays or treatments to limit sun exposure damage to the velcro and vinyl cover.
  • Lubricate the tonneau hinges, clamps and sliding rails to minimize strain on the velcro from opening/closing stress.
  • Check for loose cover fabric or damaged areas around the velcro and reattach securely to provide a tight grip surface.
  • Replace faded and severely damaged velcro strips promptly to maintain proper adhesion and security.

Can Preventative Maintenance Help Avoid Velcro Failure?

Absolutely! Practicing good tonneau cover care and maintenance is key to maximizing the longevity of velcro strips. Here are some proactive tips:

Should You Pre-Treat New Tonneau Covers?

Treating a new cover with UV protectant and vinyl conditioners can help resist environmental damage right from the start. Use products specifically formulated for tonneau cover fabrics.

Does Frequent Washing Help Prevent Velcro Damage?

Regular washing using mild cleaners designed for tonneau covers will prevent dirt buildup which preserves the velcro hooks and loops. Be sure to re-apply protectants after washing. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasives.

Can Lubricating The Hinges Reduce Strain On Velcro?

Keeping the hinges, clamps, slides and other moving parts lubricated allows the cover to open and close smoothly without over stressing the velcro. Use light oils or silicone sprays recommended by your manufacturer.

Should You Avoid Leaving The Cover Open For Extend Periods?

Leaving truck bed tonneau covers rolled up or folded open for prolong times can overstretch the fabric and cause distortion. This leads to loosening around the velcro. Close the cover when not in use to maintain proper fit.

Does Parking In The Shade Help Minimize UV Exposure?

Whenever possible, park your pickup in covered areas or shaded spots to protect from harsh UV rays. This will help reduce sun damage to the vinyl tonneau cover and velcro components. But you still need to clean and reapply UV treatment periodically.

What Are The Options For Replacing Worn Out Tonneau Cover Velcro?

Once your existing velcro strips are too far gone, replacement is necessary to keep your tonneau secured properly. Assess the damage and measure the old strips before shopping for new velcro.

Where Can You Buy Replacement Velcro Strips For Tonneau Covers?

Check with your tonneau manufacturer for replacement strips specifically designed for your cover. Many will sell individual strips or kits through their websites. Universal automotive grade velcro can also be found at auto parts stores and online retailers like Amazon.

What Type Of Velcro Is Best For Replacing Tonneau Cover Strips?

Look for heavy duty marine grade velcro with weatherproof adhesive backing. This is thick and durable to stand up to outdoor use on a truck bed cover. Brands like 3M are reputable for automotive velcro.

What Adhesives Work Best To Apply The New Velcro Strips?

The adhesive on the back of quality velcro kits should be adequate for permanent attachment. For additional strength, liquid adhesives like Barge or DAP are recommended to bond the velcro to the vinyl cover surface and edges.

How Do You Remove The Old Velcro Prior To Installing Replacements?

Carefully peel up the old velcro strips. Use a plastic putty knife to help lift the edges without damaging the cover. Any remaining adhesive can be rubbed off using alcohol or other mild solvent. Ensure the surface is totally clean and dry before applying new velcro.

What Are Some Tips For Successfully Installing The New Velcro Strips?

  • Take exact measurements and cut the strips to match original length and width.
  • Ensure cover fabric is taut and aligned properly along the edges before attaching velcro.
  • Only remove adhesive backing at the section being adhered to avoid sticking prematurely.
  • Use a roller tool to firmly apply pressure across the entire strip length for maximum adhesion.

Replacing worn out velcro promptly is key to keeping your tonneau cover functional and cargo secure. With proper care and maintenance, quality automotive grade velcro should endure for years before needing replacement again.

Key Takeaways On Why Tonneau Cover Velcro Strips Wear Out

  • Dirt buildup in the velcro hooks and loops degrades stickiness so keep strips clean
  • Constant opening and closing stresses the velcro over time eventually causing failure
  • UV rays from the sun damage the velcro material especially along the cover edges
  • Loose tonneau fabric prevents the velcro sides from pressing together tightly
  • Harsh chemicals, abrasives and improper cleaning methods can accelerate velcro wear
  • Practicing preventative maintenance with tonneau covers maximizes velcro life
  • Replacing worn velcro promptly restores adhesion and security to keep cargo protected

Proper care and diligence in addressing velcro wear issues will help you get the most out of your tonneau cover and keep your truck bed secured for hauling. Check the velcro strips regularly on your roll-up, folding or retractable cover and perform repairs or replacements as soon as problems arise. Investing in quality materials and proper installation will provide long lasting performance you can rely on.

Meghan Drummond
Meghan Drummond

Meghan has owned trucks for over 20 years and installed her first tonneau cover back in 2005. She has tested over 50 different tonneau cover models hands-on. Meghan has a journalism degree from the University of Florida and previously worked as an auto writer.

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