Newcastle Herald

How vehicle roof racks are more popular than ever

How vehicle roof racks are more popular than ever
How vehicle roof racks are more popular than ever

This is sponsored content for Yakima Roof Racks.

People who thirst for adventure are always on the move. Their lifestyle necessitates the need for gadgets and accessories that are hardy and can survive harsh conditions.

For those who thrive on fishing and camping trips, you ought to invest in a vehicle roof rack for your car.

Here are three reasons why roof racks have become more popular than ever:

1. Versatility

Vehicle roof racks have a multitude of uses. It can carry your luggage, surfboard, and even bicycles.

Moreover, it allows you to transform your car into a home by attaching an awning. This way, you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy a good book with a cup of coffee under the shade for relaxing mornings.

These are the various things you can carry on your car roof rack:

  • Luggage - An extended trip can mean additional bags for your clothes. Free up space inside your car by putting them on top and securing them with a strap. For added protection from the elements, you can cover them with water-resistant materials like upcycling tarps and plastics.
  • Boards - Surfboards and snowboards can be bulky. You can't really be expected to put them inside your car. Roof racks are immensely helpful in keeping your boards in place during the entire ride.
  • Bicycle - There are just times when you want a quick getaway from the city and enjoy nature's sights. Yakima Roof Racks allow you to load your bikes on top of your vehicle with ease for a stress-free trip from beginning to end.
  • Awning - For people who frequently go on outdoor treks and trips, you can attach an awning to your roof rack and create an instant shaded area that can protect you from sunlight as well as the rain.
  • Camping stuff - You can bring along your tents, coolers, and other camping needs by placing them on your roof racks. Never forget anything again and enjoy little luxuries like a cold beer or delicious home-cooked meals.

2. Convenience

You can place almost anything on top of your car to keep your passengers at ease with ample space inside.

With this attachment, you can ensure that the ride is comfortable for everyone joining the trip.

Moreover, you won't have to worry about your luggage and other gadgets since you know they're securely fastened atop your vehicle.

How vehicle roof racks are more popular than ever
How vehicle roof racks are more popular than ever

3. Variations

Roof racks are also convenient to install. Often, it just requires clamps, screws, and hooks to

complete the setup. One factor you need to determine first before installing this attachment is your car's roof type. Once you've identified this information, you can begin putting your roof rack on top of your vehicle.

Here are standard roof types and how to install racks on them:

  • Naked roof - It's a bare roof with no attachment points whatsoever. You will need a foot pack, crossbars, and fit kits, which come with sturdy clamps and pads, to build your roof rack system.
  • Raised side rails - This type entails two elevated rails that are parallel to the doors. There should be a small gap where you can slide your hands beneath. It's easier to attach your racks to vehicles with raised side rails than on naked roofs by clamping the sides.
  • Flush side rails - Flush side rails also run parallel to your car doors, but it's not raised so there's no space underneath. You can still attach the racks to the sides with ease.
  • Gutters - These are characterised by metal ridges that run along the top of the doors. They stick out a bit from the side of the car. You can mount roof racks right in the gutter around the roof line.
  • Fixed points - If you find attachment points in the roof of your car that are hidden under a cover or plastic door, you can use these to install your roof rack with a screw.
  • Factory crossbars - Some vehicles come with built-in crossbars and side rails. You can use these as your roof rack or install additional attachments to make it your luggage, camping stuff, and barbecue paraphernalia.

You should also be familiar with the main parts of a roof rack:

  • Towers - Also called feet, these are the primary aspects of a roof rack and generally the most expensive. Towers carry the weight of every item you place on your car roof. That's why they should be installed at the most reliable points atop the vehicle. They come with a locking ability to prevent accidents and theft.
  • Fit kit - Fit components are vehicle-specific and allow you to actually attach the towers on your car roof. It includes industrial-grade clamps that mount the tower to your roof line or rail, as well as bottom pads, which are the rubber bases that sit in the middle of your roof and tower. The latter guarantees stability of the attachment and protects the surface from damage.
  • Crossbars - Crossbars consist of two metal bars that run across the vehicle roof. This is where you mount your racks, whether it's for carrying your snowboards, bikes, or cargo boxes. There are four types of crossbars: round, square, aerodynamic, and factory or built-in.

Additional Tips

Some things that you should do when travelling with a roof rack:

  • Read the Instructions - Always read the user manual before you begin attaching your roof rack on top of your car. The guide is created specifically to make the installation process easier for you. Avoid frustration and making irreversible mistakes that may void your warranty from the provider. You'll also learn how to properly care for your roof rack, as well as its maximum weight capacity.
  • Know the torque settings - The torque settings of your roof rack can determine whether the attachment will last you a long time or not. Racks that are poorly fitted can dent or scratch your car, so it's crucial that you determine the settings before you go ahead with the installation.

Conclusion

Roof racks are versatile and convenient, especially for those who like going on road trips and other adventures. There are several variations that you can choose from, and the best thing is that they can easily fit your car as long as you know your vehicle's roof type.

This is sponsored content for Yakima Roof Racks.