It is important that users properly maintain their tonneau covers to ensure that they are in top shape for the long-term. Photo Source: [put image source here]
There are a variety of ways to care for your tonneau cover and ensure it remains working at peak performance levels.
Tonneau Cover Maintenance Tips
Use Lubricant To Keep Moving Parts in Good Shape:
Sealing and latching mechanisms should be regularly lubricated to ensure they work smoothly. Lubricants will also keep the roll-up cover from suddenly rolling up while you are driving.
Inspect It on Regular Basis
Roll-up covers can get damaged in a variety of ways, including having small objects thrown at them or even by debris falling from the sky. Make sure to inspect it on regular basis and remove any debris that has fallen onto it or into the bed of your truck. You should also check to make sure all cover latches are working properly and none are broken or cracked. If one is damaged, replace it immediately for maximum safety and security.
Clean it With Right Chemicals
You should use a high-quality tonneau cover cleaner rather than soap or dishwashing detergent to clean the cover. This will ensure it does not lose its water- and tear-proof properties as well as inhibit any premature wear in the material. Never use bleach or other harsh chemicals on your cover, as they can damage the material and weaken its effectiveness.
Roll Up And Down Regularly
Regardless of whether you have just cleaned it or not, it is good practice to roll up and down your shell regularly, at least once every couple weeks for best results. This will help simulate real life conditions that your shell may be subjected to in everyday situations such as driving through rain, sleet, snow and hail storms. It also helps to keep the material flexible and prevents it from becoming stiff over time. You should also take this opportunity to inspect your cover for any damage or problems that may have developed since the last time you used it.
Fasten Things Carefully
Make sure that all cargo tie-downs you use to secure items inside your truck bed are properly fastened and tightened. Check them frequently for any looseness or damage, and make any necessary repairs promptly. If you have a stake pocket on the back of your shell, ensure it is securely fastened to the truck bed as well. This will help prevent wind from shifting it out of place while you are driving down the road at high speeds.
Clean It Often
Regular cleaning will help you ensure that your tonneau cover lasts as long as possible without developing problems such as mold growth inside the cover itself. Dirt and other contaminants can cause warping of plastic parts which will eventually weaken these components’ ability to keep the cover secured in place. In addition, if mold develops inside the shell it will begin to leach out onto your belongings, causing damage over time.
Cover With A Tarp During Severe Weather
For especially severe weather conditions, it is recommended that you cover the tonneau completely with a tarp to ensure all of the material is protected from whatever elements are being thrown at it. Using a heavy-duty 12-gauge tarp will help protect your investment in case of rain, hail and extreme snow storms.
