Finding the perfect roof rack for a work vehicle is no easy task. People find choosing from various options to be a complicated process. In fact, in a recent survey, over 60% of tradies claimed not to find the right roof rack to satisfy their working requirements and budgets.
The most suitable rack will safely hold tools, ladders, materials and withstand daily use. On the other hand, purchasing a cheap rack will result in broken equipment while creating safety risks, and wasting time as well as resources.
But, how do you evaluate different racks? You need to consider factors such as material quality, design, load carrying capacity as well as vehicle compatibility.
Ultimately, the right rack investment will give you the edge regarding work efficiency, organization, and safety. This buying guide will equip you with every detail by explaining everything you need to know.
1. Research on Brand Reputation
It is always important to consider a brand’s reputation. Popular brands create opportunities to produce top-quality tradie roof rack, which deliver superior performance and extended durability.
With careful research, you should read online reviews and expert insights about different brands to assess their reputations. Be keen on what other tradies say about the roof racks regarding durability, performance, and ease of installation.
Moreover, popular brands with great customer satisfaction ratings and histories of great products will always deliver better results. However, you should not only depend on popularity as the only criterion. Feel free to look them up and find out what they are well-known for.
Warranty, and such things as post-sales product support, and reputation for customer care are equally important.
2. Look for Quality Material
The correct choice of material in a tradie roof rack is essential. The type of material generally defines the rack’s strength, weight, and durability. For example, most roof racks for construction workers are manufactured from aluminum, steel, and heavy-duty plastic. Moreover, each material has its advantages and disadvantages.
For example, Aluminum is lightweight, thus easy to handle and install. It’s also rust-resistant, essential to tradies who usually endure tough weather outside. On the other hand, Steel is much stronger and more resistant. However, it is heavy and prone to rust if not treated properly.
3. Compare Various Designs and Features
Not all tradie rack varieties are created equal, as roof racks differ in configuration to offer different uses. Some racks are flat, some come with rails, while others are raised. Flat roof racks are good for carrying flat sheets of items such as plywood or ladders, while raised racks allow enough space underneath the rack to carry taller cargo or help with easy loading and unloading.
Moreover, some roof racks come with tie-down points. This makes it easy to secure gear while in transit, which is critical when transporting equipment that may shift or fall off.
The other consideration should be the aerodynamic design. Some roof racks are designed to enhance fuel economy and reduce noise, where such minor features become a major factor over time, especially when undertaking long-distance driving.
4. Consider Extra Accessories
Just as important as a roof rack is, much more can be added to enhance its usefulness. Many tradie roof racks include ladder rollers, tool boxes, and mesh covers.
All of these accessories make loading and unloading gear much easier and safer. For instance, a ladder roller allows you to slide heavy ladders onto the rack with no strain on your back, while a toolbox or storage box keeps small tools and building materials safe and secure when driving.
Furthermore, roof rack accessories will mount directly to the rack or require additional brackets or different accessories to complete the assembly. Ensure you obtain compatible accessories for your rack and vehicle, as this will maximize the use of your roof rack and allow for some return on investment.
5. Check for Compatibility
Before purchasing a tradie roof rack, knowing whether it will suit your working vehicle is essential. Roof racks are designed to fit numerous vehicles; however, not all will fit all vehicles.
Different vehicles’ roof shapes, sizes, and configurations vary. Some have raised roof rails, others have flush roof rails, and some even have fully naked roofs. Be sure to choose a roof rack that matches your vehicle’s roof type.
Compatibility must be checked through specifications provided by a manufacturer or via a compatibility guide that most retailers use online. Most guides allow you to input your vehicle’s make, model, and year and then list compatible roof racks.
Moreover, ensure that the roof rack can accommodate special vehicle modifications, such as raised trucks or custom vans. A perfect fit would avoid unnecessary application and installation headaches and better secure the rack while driving.
6. Determine Load Capacity
Every tradie roof rack has an optimum weight capacity that defines the amount of weight it is supposed to carry safely. This is the most crucial aspect to consider, as overloading your roof rack may cause accidents, damage to your vehicle, or even a failed roof rack.
Roof rack load capacities depend on their material, design, and quality, thus, they greatly differ. Before loading a roof rack, check out how much weight it can hold.
7. Price Comparison
Price is essential in choosing the right tradie roof rack, but it should not solely be the basis for selection. While it is tempting to go the cheapest route, remember that a roof rack is an investment for your work vehicle.
Spending a little more upfront will save you on the backside in terms of the durability, performance, and safety of the rack. Look for deals with good value for the features and quality you need.
Conclusion
Considerations of brand reputation, material, design, and compatibility make choosing the best tradie roof rack for your work vehicle a breeze. All of these aspects play a decisive role in the general performance and safety of the roof rack.
Just be patient and decide upon it carefully. A good roof rack can take a heavy load of tools or even long ladders, making the job of a professional much easier.