What You Need to Know About Roof Racks

When you’re on holiday, roof racks are almost an essential ingredient for a great time, especially if your family has more gear than space in your vehicle. If you’re getting ready to celebrate the cooler temperatures just around the corner with a trip to your favourite getaway, you need to find a suitable roof rack for your vehicle.

Like Family Handyman’s Robert Annis puts it, a roof rack serves as your “mobile storage shed.” We like that. Let us help you find the best roof rack for your needs – and get the most out of your expanded storage space.

First, Determine What You Want to Haul

Roof racks and accessories vary by the type of equipment you want to haul. Do you want to take only your bikes, or do you want to pack some extra luggage atop your vehicle? Or, do you want to add a kayak or water skis to the mix?

Do you plan to use your roof rack for other purposes, like hauling sports equipment for the kids or home improvement materials for your weekend warrior projects? Before you head out to your Northern Sydney-area vehicle accessory shop, you’ll want to jot down all the uses you want your roof rack to fill.

Consider Your Vehicle’s Limits

Your vehicle’s roof can only carry so much. It’s essential to find out what your roof’s weight limit is so that you can find a roof rack that can accommodate its weight limit.

List Other Features You Might Need

Roof racks come with a broad range of accessories and features that can customise your roof rack to your exact needs.

For instance, you might want to consider a roof rack with lockable mounting feet to make it difficult for thieves to steal your gear. Other types of gear, such as kayaks and canoes, need specialised equipment to accommodate their shape.

On the other hand, if you plan to haul heavy materials or equipment, you’ll need a rack with a hefty load capacity. Since your roof’s load capacity includes both the rack and the equipment you haul, you’ll need to look for a lightweight model, preferably aluminium.

In addition, where you plan to take your vehicle determines what type of roof rack you need. For example, if you plan to take it off-road, you’ll need a rack designed to handle the bumps and twists driving on rugged terrain requires.

Look at Your Vehicle’s Roof Fittings Before You Buy

Does your vehicle have side rails or fixed points to attach a rack to? You’ll need to consider these factors since they’re factory-installed and near impossible to change.

If your vehicle doesn’t have any roof fittings at all, you’ll need a special type of roof rack that clamps to your door jamb. For that reason, you should bring your vehicle with you when you shop for a roof rack.

Here at Bars N Racks, there’s no guesswork when it comes to finding you a roof rack that’s perfect for your needs. Our expert staff will look at your vehicle, ask you a few questions, and find you a rack that will serve you for years to come. To learn more, get in touch with our knowledgeable staff today!