Rolling Tonneau Covers - Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I get a roll-up tonneau cover rather than a folding, or any other kind of, tonneau cover?

There are many reasons to get a folding tonneau cover, but roll-up tonneau covers do offer a couple distinct benefits over folding tonneau covers.

First of all, roll-up tonneau covers are generally cheaper. Also, folding tonneau covers don’t allow the same amount of access to your truck bed as a roll-up tonneau cover does. This is because most folding tonneau covers can only get as small as a single panel, so even when they are open entirely it still blocks a third or a fourth of your truck bed. Roll-up tonneau covers don’t have this problem: when they are rolled up all the way you have access to your entire truck bed.

Another benefit: if the biggest reason you are getting a tonneau cover is the improved gas mileage, then a roll-up tonneau cover is your best option, because they block airflow from entering your bed and creating drag just like any tonneau cover, and they also weigh less than folding tonneau covers, resulting in better mileage.

Roll-up tonneau covers also have something in the looks department over folding tonneau covers. Folding covers sit over your rails and are raised a couple inches above your bed. Roll-up tonneau are set inside the rails and are shallower, for a more low-profile, sleeker look.

How does a roll-up tonneau cover operate?

It’s all in the name. Roll-up covers take just seconds to open: open the tailgate, pull the cover out from the latch, and roll the cover up and apart from the Velcro strips. Most models have straps that will secure your rolled up tonneau cover so you can drive with the cover open. To close your roll-up tonneau cover, just roll it out, fix the end back on the latch, and run your hand over the edges to make sure the Velcro sticks.

How do I install a roll-up tonneau cover?

Installing a roll-up tonneau cover is simple, no special tools are required. First, you will install a weather seal on your cab and corner plugs. Then, fix the rail edges of your roll-up tonneau cover to the side rails of your truck by tightening a series of clamps that come with the cover. That’s pretty much all there is to it. In all, it should only take 10 – 20 minutes to install your roll-up tonneau cover.

How much does a roll-up tonneau cover cost?

The answer to this question depends on many factors, including the brand of the tonneau cover and the make and model of your truck. Extang offers roll-up tonneau covers starting at around $250, while BAK sells a higher-end roll-up tonneau cover starting at $850.

What materials are used to make roll-up tonneau covers?

Again, the answer to this question depends on the brand. Most roll-up tonneau covers are made primarily of vinyl.