Tonneau Covers: Just the Facts

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Tonneau Covers

That’s right, you’ve heard about tonneau covers roughly 9 million times since last Tuesday. So much so, that you’re probably letting out an audible sigh as you fire off all the ways that using the term “tonneau cover” rather than “bed cover” is the most pretentious thing you’ve ever heard. Yes, it’s an overly-covered topic. And yes, you probably already know why you should have a tonneau cover on your truck. But just in case you don’t, or your buddy doesn’t, or your customer doesn’t, we drew up a fast-facts sheet of the benefits to slapping a cover over that truck bed. No fuss, no flash—just facts.

Before we jump into a product breakdown, let’s talk about why tonneau covers are so useful.

Cargo Protection. Tonneau covers provide a barrier against things getting into the truck bed, like rain, snow, leaves, road debris, bird poop, and many other nasty messes.

Security. Whether the cover is hard or soft, rolling or folding, a tonneau ensures that whatever you’re hauling is out of sight and locked up tight.

Style. Bed covers add OE-level looks and features to your truck’s overall appearance. Some even have color-matching options for a truly seamless look.

Improved Fuel Economy. A cover can save you money at the pump by reducing aerodynamic drag.

Higher Resale Value. Since it protects your truck bed, a cover helps ensure you’ll get more money back on your investment when it comes time to sell.

Perhaps the only drawback of a tonneau is choosing one since the market is flooded with options. Let’s take a closer look at one brand you should consider, TrailFX.

Why You Should Consider TrailFX

With a solid lineup featuring just enough variety, TrailFX tonneau covers are uncomplicated and very affordable. No unnecessary bells and whistles—just high quality, great styling, and easy installation.

Soft Rolling/Folding

TrailFX offers its soft covers in two varieties: soft-rolling and soft-folding. They both feature a lightweight vinyl skin, as well as all-weather protection with seals to guard against moisture and dirt. If you’re using your truck for more light-duty hauling, then soft covers are a solid option.

Whether it’s hauling camping gear, gardening supplies, or a few odds and ends from the hardware store, they offer an easy open-and-close setup for everyday use. Going with soft-rolling or soft-folding will largely depend on your personal preference, since TrailFX provides similar features in both categories. These include a lockable function using the tailgate handle, and a no-drill installation.

A few critical differences on each:

• The rolling cover uses a Velcro fastening system to roll up/open the cover while the soft folding folds up and back for bed access.
• Installation on soft-folding covers employs the use of C-clamps, while soft-rolling covers feature a hook-and-loop installation.
• TrailFX’s soft-folding covers are backed by a lifetime warranty, while the soft-rolling options feature a limited 5-year warranty.

If you’re looking for an easy installation and a simple solution for protecting your truck bed, soft covers can be a viable option. Both versions are low-profile, adding to the truck’s aerodynamic performance and saving money at the pump. Plus, this tonneau looks good while it’s working, thanks to the clean, black finish.

Hard-Folding

TrailFX carries hard tri-folding tonneau covers in two versions: Standard and Premium. As you probably guessed, the Premium option offers a few more enhanced features and functionality, but both versions provide impressive performance. One thing to note about TrailFX’s hard-folding covers is that fitment availability varies depending on the manufacturer. For example, Premium covers for Ford F-150s only go back to 2015. And, if you’re using cargo management like an in-bed toolbox, the covers will only work with select models. So, you’ll want to double-check your make and model with the company’s catalog before pulling the trigger.

Premium

Built with the work truck driver and off-roader in mind, the TrailFX Premium Hard Trifold Tonneau Cover sports a black aluminum top and a carpeted underlining that combines a slick appearance and added protection. The aluminum helps guard against rust, while the underlining keeps gear from scratching up the underside of the tonneau when you hit those occasional potholes or bumpy roads.

If you need to work with the cover open, the Premium option offers 1/3, 2/3, or fully open, making it easier to truck bulkier items like lumber or your paddleboard. There are a set of built-in drain tubes that guard against mold and mildew. Paired with a group of weather-resistant seals, you’ve got a cover that protects against snow, ice, rain, and anything else that might land on your tonneau while driving. Plus, the cover is lockable using your tailgate handle, so there’s no worry about the security of equipment and supplies in the bed.

The TrailFX Premium Hard Trifold Tonneau Cover is also backed by a limited 5-year warranty, so you’ll have plenty of end-user support from the manufacturer.

Standard

If you’re on a slightly tighter budget (though there’s only about a $150 jump to Premium), the TrailFX Standard Flush Hard Folding cover also provides plenty of bed protection and security for the open road. It shares a similar three-panel surface design as the Premium and features the 1/3, 2/3, or fully-opened functionality.

The construction on the Standard cover is a sturdy FRP top skin with an aluminum bottom. If carpeted underlining isn’t a dealbreaker, then the Standard can get the job done. It’s backed by a limited 3-year warranty.

Both versions boast an easy, no-drill installation and mount flush with the truck’s bed rails to form a tight seal around your precious cargo. (The Premium uses L-rail mounting system, the Standard uses brackets and slam latches.) Both units also secure tightly using woven snap buckle-straps, so you’re fully braced for high winds or punishing rains.

Keep It Covered

If you want complete protection for your truck bed, consider adding a liner or a bed mat, as well. TrailFX carries both categories for many makes and models, which help cut down on moisture and scratch damage inside the truck bed. And let’s face it, if you’re interested in maintaining your truck’s resale value, any small steps you can take to cut down on wear and tear are helpful.

Hopefully, this quick rundown highlights not only why protecting your truck is a good idea but also just how well TrailFX tonneau covers can do the job. Learn more here: https://www.trailfx.com/