Choosing a canvas truck bed cover is difficult because there are so many options. Any type of tonneau cover can enhance the look of your truck. Don’t forget, too, that a bed cover can reduce drag as your truck moves down the road and can improve fuel economy. But some covers are better for one task than another, and some covers could be a disaster for your truck. The two general types of covers are hard and soft covers.
1. Soft covers
If you are looking for a cheap case, a soft one will be the cheapest option. An inexpensive cover still looks good and provides protection for your cargo from the elements as well as protection from prying eyes. But the soft covers are quite easy to cut and enter, so the security part is a bit weak.
Soft covers can have various designs. The easiest way to attach to the top of the bed and simply roll forward for full bed access. You can also choose a hinged cover. This is a one piece forward leaning vinyl covered frame. A tri-fold soft cover and even a snap-on cover are also available. You can easily research these options, but they are all cheap and useful.
1. Hard covers
Hard tops can be made of plastic, fiberglass, or metal. Popular models are the sleek one-piece units that lean forward to turn a truck bed into a giant trunk. With hard covers, you get greater security than with a vinyl cover, since the covers lock and it is difficult to enter when closed.
The hard covers are also made to fold up into sections for easy access. So the retractable cover is, in many ways, the ultimate cover. Retractable covers mount flush with the top of the bed rails and the aluminum top rolls forward into a bin. Some units are even powered…press a button and the cover slides forward out of the way.
Here is the potential disaster. A one-piece hinged front cover, especially a hard cover, is an attractive and stylish option. But what about transportation? You cannot haul any type of tall cargo with a one-piece hinged front cover on your truck. A lawn mower, refrigerator, dog house, just about anything higher than bed rails won’t work. So if you need a giant trunk that’s always closed when you travel, a one-piece hinged cover is fine. If not, choose another design.
A tonneau cover is a great addition to any truck. Choose the type that best suits the way you use your truck and the look you like and that fits your budget.