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The cover used for the bed of your truck is called a tonneau cover. Its main purpose is to give protection to the stuff kept in the bed of your pick-up truck. There are different types of tonneau covers available, and depending on the quality of the material used, the prices vary from around $100 to $2000.

The Different Types of Tonneau Covers:

Aluminum Tonneau Covers

Aluminum tonneau covers are the most popular ones. They are available under two different brands of aluminum; extreme flat, and laser life. Both serve the same, the only difference is that laser life is painted with a tough black coat to match the trim of your truck, whereas extreme flat is painted so that it matches the paint of your truck.

Retractable Tonneau Covers

These covers are designed so that they can retract automatically and roll up into the storage box. Though they are hard tonneau covers, you can stuff large items without removing the cover from the bed. They can provide the security of a hard top and are also very convenient like a soft top. The only thing is, you have to make some space for the canister in the front, and they are also prone to leaking. The installation may not be easy as it may require some drilling. They are a bit more expensive than aluminum covers.

Fiberglass Tonneau Covers

Fiberglass tonneau covers are popular as they are secure and are generally painted to match the body of your truck. The only setback is the weight - they are very heavy, so it gets very difficult to remove the cover from the bed when you are going to put in a large item.

Folding Tonneau Covers

Folding tonneau covers are the newest invention. These are very convenient to use as they can be folded when putting items in the bed. The only problem is they are prone to leaking, but surely if you do not mind that then they are great covers for your truck bed.

Vinyl Tonneau Covers

Vinyl tonneau covers provide the same protection as other covers, but the good thing about these is they are light weight. This makes it easier while installing the cover, and also when loading items into your truck. They can be easily removed when not needed. They are also cheaper as compared to other covers.

The Benefits of a Tonneau Cover:

A tonneau cover protects your luggage or other items kept in the bed of your truck. It increases the security of your personal belongings, as it conceals whatever is under it. A tonneau cover also improves the gas mileage of your truck approximately up to 8%. This way you can save on your gas bill. For more advanced security, a locking hard top tonneau cover can be used. This can be latched to the tail gate, and your belongings can be secured under lock and key.

While buying a tonneau cover, check on the functionality of it. See if the cover is easy to install or remove, and also how convenient it is to use. The durability and life of a tonneau cover depends mainly on how it is handled. If it is used extensively in hot sun, during snow or hard rain, its life may be shorter than it should be. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions to take care of your tonneau cover.