Soft tonneau covers are popular among truck owners who want a simple way to protect their truck bed. But if you’re wondering whether these covers actually keep water out, you’re not alone. Waterproofing is one of the main things people look for, especially if they’re carrying items that can get damaged when wet. Here’s a look at how well soft tonneau covers can block water and what you need to consider.
How Well Do Soft Tonneau Covers Repel Water?
Soft tonneau covers, usually made from vinyl or other durable fabrics, are designed to be water-resistant, not completely waterproof. While these covers can repel water to some extent, they aren’t going to give you 100% protection in all weather conditions. Rain, snow, or even washing your truck can allow small amounts of water to seep through, depending on the cover’s design and the installation quality.
The cover itself might hold up well against rain, but other parts like the seals and edges might not be as effective. If you’re only dealing with light rain, a soft cover can handle it. But if you’re parked in a storm, it’s a different story.
Types of Soft Tonneau Covers and Their Effectiveness Against Water
Not all soft tonneau covers are built the same. Different designs offer varying levels of water resistance, so knowing the types helps.
Soft Roll-Up Tonneau Covers
Soft roll-up covers are popular because they’re easy to install and use. These covers usually attach with Velcro strips or clamps along the edges. While they might keep out some water, they’re prone to leakage around the sides where the material meets the bed.
Some soft roll-up covers include additional seals along the edges, which can help reduce the amount of water getting inside. But they’re still not ideal if you’re expecting heavy rain. They can protect against light moisture, but if you leave valuable items in there, you might want extra coverage.
Soft Folding Tonneau Covers
Soft folding covers usually come in tri-fold designs. They offer a bit more stability compared to roll-up covers, which can help keep some rainwater out. These covers have more structure, so they don’t flap as much in the wind, and they often have better seals along the hinges.
However, since they’re still soft covers, water can still find its way through, especially around the edges. They can be a step up from soft roll-ups for water resistance, but still won’t block out heavy rain completely. So, if you’re carrying sensitive cargo, you’ll still need to think about additional waterproofing.
Water Resistance Features to Look For
To keep water out as much as possible, there are certain features to look for in a soft tonneau cover. Not every soft cover has these features, so it helps to check closely before buying.
Seals and Weather Stripping
Look for covers that come with weather stripping around the edges. This rubber or foam material helps create a tighter seal between the cover and the truck bed. Some soft covers include weather stripping as part of the design, while others require you to install it separately. This feature can make a big difference in keeping water out, especially around the tailgate area, which is often a problem spot.
Water-Resistant Material
Most soft tonneau covers are made from vinyl or similar materials, which are naturally water-resistant. Vinyl covers will hold up better than fabric or canvas covers in wet conditions. However, even with water-resistant material, prolonged exposure to rain or snow can eventually allow some water through, especially if it pools on top of the cover.
Proper Installation
A big factor in whether your soft tonneau cover will keep water out is how well it’s installed. Gaps or misalignments around the edges and corners are the most common areas where water gets in. If the cover isn’t aligned correctly or the clamps aren’t tight, you’re more likely to have issues with leaks.
Make sure the cover is installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and consider using extra weatherproofing products if needed.
What Weather Conditions Will Soft Tonneau Covers Withstand?
Soft tonneau covers perform differently under various weather conditions. In light rain or snow, they usually do fine, and the water will mostly roll off. However, in heavy rainstorms, especially if water starts pooling on the cover, leaks are likely.
Heavy Rain
If you’re driving through heavy rain, water pressure can push through the seams or edges of the cover. This is especially true for soft roll-up covers where the water can slip through the Velcro or clamps. Some truck owners try to mitigate this by adding additional weather stripping, but it’s not foolproof.
Snow
Snow can actually be more forgiving for soft tonneau covers compared to rain because it sits on top rather than soaking through. However, once it starts to melt, the water can leak into the bed if there are any weak spots or gaps.
Windy Conditions
Windy conditions can create a lot of pressure on a soft tonneau cover, especially if the cover isn’t tightly secured. This can cause the cover to lift slightly, allowing water to get underneath. A soft folding cover is usually better in windy weather than a roll-up cover because it’s more stable and less likely to flap.
Soft Tonneau Covers and Water Resistance
Soft tonneau covers provide some level of water protection but aren’t completely watertight. While they do a decent job keeping out light rain and protecting from UV rays, they’re not ideal for heavy rain or snow. To keep water out as much as possible, look for covers with good seals, a snug fit, and durable vinyl material.
In short, soft tonneau covers will help keep most water out under mild conditions, but if you need full waterproofing, you may want to consider alternatives or additional protective steps.
