Rolling Vs Folding Tonneau Covers

Rolling Vs Folding Tonneau Covers; Which One to Pick for Best Security?

Rolling and Folding Tonneau covers are two of the most popular types of truck bed covers, probably due to their ease of use and simple installation. The debate over whether to roll your Tonneau cover or fold it has been going on for years. The best way to decide which method is right for you comes down to personal preference and the weather conditions in your area. 

In our rolling vs folding tonneau cover comparison, we’re going to compare their basic features along with the advantages and disadvantages of both categories. Finally, a consolation with a product suggestion section will pick the right tonneau cover that will perfectly fit your truck bed.

Comparison Table

FactorRolling Tonneau CoverFolding Tonneau Cover  
Material Heavy-duty vinyl Tough aluminum / Steel slats shield, rigid fiberglass 
Duration of InstallingIt takes a second to fold up at once & re-seated themIt takes longer to install
MaintenanceEasy to operateIt’s pretty hard for the novice
Fabric DurabilityMediumHigh
Price It is affordable to buyIt’s a little pricey.

Rolling Tonneau Cover

Rolling tonneau covers are typically found on pickup trucks with bed lengths of 6 feet or more. These covers consist of three sections (two rails and a roller tube assembly) where the middle section is “folded” under the cab of the truck when opened. Once opened, this middle section “rolls up” into position along the side rails, where it locks into place, creating an all-weather enclosure for your truck bed.

This tonneau is generally considered more convenient than folding tonneau covers because they offer 100 percent access to your truck bed while also protecting you from the elements. Let’s have a look at the benefits and drawbacks of this truck bed cover below-

photo credit: amazon.com

Advantages –

  • Strong and durable frame design
  • Low-profile construction
  • Can handle extreme weather condition
  • Budget friendly
  • Easy to operate

Disadvantages –

  • Takes time to install

Folding Tonneau Cover

Folding tonneau covers lockdown on both sides of your truck’s bed using clamps or bows/brackets, making them secure while not in use and easy to remove when required. The primary benefit of a folding tonneau cover is that it provides 100 percent coverage of your truck bed, minimizing debris and protecting its contents from the elements.

This type of cover also improves gas mileage by reducing drag and wind resistance while driving at highway speeds — which can save you money at the pump! Let’s have a quick look at the benefits and drawbacks of this truck bed cover below-

photo credit: amazon.com

Advantages –

  • Easy to operate and remove
  • Two varieties available- hard & soft
  • Offers single-hand opening and closing
  • Most of them are customizable
  • Can handle cargo on top

Disadvantages –

  • Manual operation
Rolling Vs Folding Tonneau Covers

Comparisons between Rolling Vs Folding Tonneau Covers

It’s pretty tricky to find or tell which one should be your best choice, as this subject only relies on your truck’s requirements and budget. However, below we have compared some key features of our competing parties to give you an extensive idea of them.

Materials

Well, at first, we’re going to compare their cover materials. The rolling tonneau covers are handy and made with double-sided flexible vinyl elements. Most of the cover materials are expensive and durable for use. 

In contrast, when you see the folding tonneau covers material, they’re also unique and made with aluminum, rigid fiberglass, canvas style covers which make it super solid and viable. It’s not to mention that aluminum is very sturdy, and the fiberglass is weightless, handy.

Security

For lock mechanisms to be effective, they must be easy to use and difficult for thieves to access or break. Fortunately, there are several types of lock mechanisms that meet these requirements almost perfectly.

Most rolling tonneau covers have security straps that run from the front of the truck across to the other side. Its tailgate lock offers easy operation, ensuring 100% security to your precious cargo.

Meanwhile, folding tonneau covers have a tailgate lock mechanism for cargo protection. This security feature for folding tonneau covers is designed to prevent theft from happening by causing all sorts of problems when attempting to lift or move your truck in any way without having the key fob handy.

Weight

Folding tonneau covers may weigh up to 50-100lbs (pounds) at a single point, but these are the requirements for a hard one. Again, rolling tonneau covers may weigh up to at least 120 pounds. Naturally, it seems that rolling covers can bear heavier than folding ones. 

Installation & Removal

The rolling covers allow you to install them without using any hassle of drilling or heavy tools. You can finish the way only 17 mm socket and ratchet, which may take a minimum of 20-25 minutes. On the other hand, one may require more time to install the folding tonneau cover than a rolling tonneau cover. 

Operation Mechanism

Folding tonneau covers have multiple options to access the cargo section. The opening and closing of the cover are very simple. You will find a folding mechanism that offers easy operation.

Again, rolling tonneau covers are often easy to open and close. Some models come with rolling bed covers for quick installation. You can easily access the cargo section by rolling the tonneau cover.

Some Product Suggestions

We have short-listed some products that may interest your requirements. Have a quick look below-

Rolling Tonneau Cover: –

Folding Tonneau Cover: –

Conclusion

If you want a cover that is up and out of the way during the day and easily accessible at night, choose a rolling cover. On the contrary, if you want a cover that you can use for hauling and won’t interfere with the bed of your truck, choose a folding cover. I hope that our rolling vs folding tonneau cover comparison article help you to find you desired tonneau cover.

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