How Much Does a Tonneau Cover Weight

A tonneau cover is a highly valuable accessory for truck owners, offering numerous benefits such as improved fuel efficiency, protection from harsh weather, and increased security for your cargo. The weight of a tonneau cover is a crucial factor to consider when choosing the right one for your vehicle, as it can influence the ease of installation, removal, and overall performance of the cover. In this article, we will discuss the various factors that determine the weight of a tonneau cover and the different types available on the market.

Material

The material used in the construction of a tonneau cover plays a significant role in determining its weight. Generally, tonneau covers are made from one of the following materials:

1. Vinyl: Vinyl tonneau covers are lightweight and easy to handle, with an average weight of around 20 to 30 pounds. These covers are popular due to their affordability and convenience, offering decent water resistance and protection from the elements.
2. Aluminum: Aluminum tonneau covers are made from lightweight aluminum slats and offer a higher level of security and durability than their vinyl counterparts. These covers typically weigh between 40 and 70 pounds, with the added weight providing extra protection for your truck bed.
3. Fiberglass: Fiberglass tonneau covers are known for their strength and durability, offering maximum protection for the contents of your truck bed. However, they are also the heaviest option, with an average weight of 70 to 150 pounds. The heavyweight and rigid structure of these covers make them a more suitable option for those looking for a permanent, secure, and stylish solution.
4. ABS plastic: ABS plastic tonneau covers offer a lighter weight alternative to fiberglass, weighing around 50 to 80 pounds. They provide similar security and durability, but are easier to handle and install compared to their fiberglass counterparts.

Type

The style and design of a tonneau cover also play a role in determining its weight. There are several types of tonneau covers, each with its own weight range:

1. Soft roll-up: Soft roll-up tonneau covers are typically the lightest option available, usually made from vinyl or canvas material. These covers generally weigh between 20 and 30 pounds and are easy to install and remove.
2. Hard roll-up: Hard roll-up tonneau covers have aluminum slats beneath the soft cover material, providing improved security and rigidity. These covers weigh around 50 to 60 pounds, offering a balance between strength and convenience.
3. Folding: Folding tonneau covers can be made from various materials, such as aluminum or ABS plastic, with a weight range of 40 to 100 pounds. They offer a practical solution for those who require quick access to their truck bed, as the cover can be folded up in sections.
4. Hinged: Hinged tonneau covers are made from fiberglass or ABS plastic and provide a high level of security and weather protection. These covers weigh between 70 and 150 pounds and are typically more difficult to remove and reinstall than other options.

Size

The size of your truck bed and the corresponding tonneau cover will also impact its weight. Naturally, a larger cover designed for an extended or crew cab truck will weigh more than a smaller cover for a regular cab truck. When choosing a tonneau cover, it is essential to consider the size and weight capacity of your vehicle to ensure that the cover is compatible with your truck.

The weight of a tonneau cover can range from as light as 20 pounds up to 150 pounds, depending on the material, type, and size of the cover. When selecting a tonneau cover, it is important to consider how the weight will impact the installation, removal, and overall performance of the cover to find the perfect fit for your truck and lifestyle.