Even though truck covers are built tough, they do get torn. Based on the severity of the damage, you have to either repair or replace them. The majority of tonneau covers you get are made with vinyl, which is damaged after prolonged usage and exposure to weather elements. You can use a vinyl repair kit to repair a ripper tonneau cover.
How to repair a Ripped Tonneau Cover
- At first, clean the area of the cover to eliminate traces of dirt and oil. Use water and soap and then apply some, alcohol.
- Remove any jagged edge with a scalpel or a pair of scissors.
- Then insert a canvas backing found in any vinyl and leather repair kit at the place of the tear using tweezers. Using glue may be necessary or you may have to use heating.
- These kits come with pigments to ensure the area of repair does not look much different from rest of the cover. The pigment has to be mixed with a filler material and these kits contain that too. Use the filler material in several layers. Use the embossing stamp that looks like the bed cover grain.
What Are Tonneau Covers Made Of?
Soft tonneau covers are made using vinyl but the harder ones are designed with fibreglass or polypropylene.
Things to remember before you fix a Ripped Tonneau Cover
As it is, the repaired cover area will look somewhat different from the remaining section of the cover. However, it will prolong the longevity of the cover. The tear edges have to be trimmed with care.
How much time is needed to repair a Ripped Tonneau Cover?
It does not take much time when you have all the necessary tools ready. You may get the job done within 15-20 minutes.
Why do Tonneau Covers rip?
Some tonneau covers tend to tear quicker than others. However, they may tear when you place heavy objects atop. Closing the tonneau covers forcefully against a large cargo with sharp edges can cause tearing as well. Using a chemical-based cleaning solution can also cause a tear. You may evade parking your truck in harsh sunlight for long to evade damages to the tonneau cover.
How long does a Tonneau Cover Last before getting affected by ripping?
A tonneau cover lasts long when you maintain it well. So, these covers do not have a fixed shelf life. On an average, they may last you around 5 years.
Do some Tonneau Covers Rip quicker than the others?
The answer is yes. The hard tonneau covers made with fibreglass or aluminium are longer lasting than the soft ones, for sure. Proper maintenance prolongs durability of such covers.
Do some brands make Tonneau Covers that do not rip off easily?
Yes, some brands make hard tonneau covers with aluminium or fibreglass for enhanced longevity.
Can I thwart my Tonneau Cover from ripping?
Stop trying to close the cover forcibly when the cargo is large–sized. Use a cleaning agent supported by the brand. Keep the covers open or fully closed to minimize wind-induced damage while driving.
FAQ
Can wind lead to Tonneau Cover ripping?
Yes, wind may lead to damages to the tonneau cover. An opened tonneau cover will get affected by wind as you drive. So, keep the cover closed as you drive.
If I stitch a Ripped Cover will it worsen ripping?
No. Patching up a ripped cover safeguards it from further damage. Leaving it unrepaired will only worsen the condition.
If I park the truck in sun, will it lead to the ripping of tonneau cover?
The answer is yes. The UV rays damage the fabric gradually. Fading and cracking in the fabric will set in. So, try parking the truck under shades.
Why should not I drive with an Open Tonneau Cover?
Driving with an open tonneau cover is not illegal, per say. However, it is not advisable owing to the following reasons:
- Security- The security of your cargo is jeopardized when you drive with an open tonneau cover. It is necessary that precious cargo is kept covered to thwart theft.
- Weather caused damage- The harsh weather elements can damage your cargo when the tonneau cover is kept open. Perishable cargo will get damaged by rain and sunlight if the cover is kept open. Strong gusts of wind may even lift and scatter light cargo in the bed.
- Loss of cargo- Driving the truck with the tonneau cover kept open will lead to loss of cargo eventually. When you drive the truck over rough terrain or bumpy roads, the cargo will fall off.
Can you stand up on Tonneau Covers without causing ripping?
It is not recommended that you should stand on the tonneau cover of your truck. However, the hard single-piece Truck Bed Covers are sturdy enough to withstand weight of a person standing atop. They are made with aluminium, fibreglass. These can cope with heavy weights. Hard Retractable Tonneau Covers are also quite durable. The latter type is more reliable for usage.
Conclusion
Picking a truck bed cover should be done with care. The hard retractable or hard tonneau covers tend to be more durable. Still, you have to handle them with care. Evade closing them hard against large goods. Evade keeping very heavy objects on the cover. Standing on the cover is not recommended. The soft truck bed covers need more careful handling to prevent ripping. Travel with your truck bed cover closed to prevent weather-induced damages.
