4x4 Buying Guide - Selecting The Right Roof Racks

Roof Racks are an extremely handy 4x4 product that enables drivers to considerably increase the level of cargo space their 4x4 can move. Space is always hard to handle when making plans for a prolonged 4x4 trip, considering all the items, equipment, and gear that’s needed to make sure you get home safely. For this reason, roof racks offer an excellent solution to the experienced off-roader.

Roof racks have advanced with time to fit modern vehicle requirements, so naturally there are a variety of products available. The fact is, there is no one-size-fits-all when it concerns roof racks, as there are a range of elements that have to be taken into consideration, for instance the vehicles manufacturer and the style of your roof contours. Before purchasing roof racks for your vehicle, it's important to understand various factors about the types of materials available and how they are fixed to your vehicle. Weight also plays a decisive role when choosing roof racks, so to give you a greater understanding of what you should be looking out for when buying roof racks, here's a quick overview to help you make the best decision.

Types of Materials

Deciding on the right material for your roof racks is essential for your vehicle's functionality, durability, and of course to suit each driver's preferences. Similar to bull bars, there are three main types of materials when it concerns roof racks: steel, alloy, and plastic. The greatest difference between each kind of material is weight, so your roof's load capacity will become extremely important.

●     Steel - Steel roof racks are the heaviest and most durable material, and as a result, will considerably lower the amount of extra cargo load due to its weight. The roof load capacity must be considered so you don't damage the vehicle and create other safety issues

●     Alloy - Aluminium roof racks are both sturdy and lightweight, delivering the best balance between durability and weight. Consequently, aluminium roof racks are more expensive than steel roof racks, and aren't subjected to the same amount of corrosion

●     Plastic - Plastic roof racks are the lightest and least expensive of all the materials, however they aren't sturdy at all and are not suitable for most off-roading

Types of Roof Racks

Due to the fact that there are a large number of vehicle designs with distinctive types of roofs, there are also many different shapes and sizes of roof racks. The following provides a list of the most prevalent types of roof racks available.

●     Bare Roof - One of the most common kinds of roof racks for modern 4x4's, the Bare Roof roof racks are developed according to the style of your vehicle's roof. This roof racks can be temporarily removed and put away when not being used, however may not be suitable for all kinds of off-roading

●     Rain Gutter - The most standard type of roof racks that is attached to the vehicles rain gutters, Rain Gutter roof racks have differing heights to fulfil different clearance requirements

●     Raised Rail - This kind of roof rack is usually factory installed and runs from the front to back of the vehicle's roof. Simple to install and very versatile

●     Tracks - Much Like the Raised Rail, this type of roof rack is also typically factory installed and runs from the front to back of the outer edges of the vehicle's roof. Also very versatile

There are other types of factory installed roof racks that resemble the two discussed above, however they are very custom and dependent on the make and model of your 4x4 vehicle.

Other Considerations

Usually, your vehicle's make and model will strongly assist you with best kind of roof racks for your 4WD, however there are other factors to take into consideration. One hidden cost that lots of people tend to forget is installation costs. Making sure that your roof racks are installed properly is a vital safety concern, particularly when you decide on a permanent roof rack system. Always remember to add the installation costs or additional mounting accessories (if installing yourself) to your overall costs.

Height and clearance is similarly another issue that must be taken into account, even without a load on top of your vehicle. If you own a high 4WD and suspect that your roof racks may be too high for low-hanging branches or road bridges, consider installing temporary roof racks that can be removed. Furthermore, keep an eye out for added features, for instance high sides that protect your cargo from catching on trees when off-roading.

Summary

There's no question that roof racks are a practical 4x4 product that will substantially assist you when planning an off-roading trip, however bear in mind there are factors that need to be considered like safety issues, installation costs, and height and clearance issues. If you have any queries about what kind of roof racks would be most appropriate for your 4x4, or you just need some helpful advice, speak with the professionals at TJM Australia. Alternatively, use our handy store locator to find the TJM closest to you.