You might have stumbled upon this while looking what the differences are between a roof rail and roof rack. You might also want to know what is best for you. This blog will clear up any confusion and help you decide what's best for your car or 4WD. Knowing the benefits and uses of roof racks and roof rails will help you make the right choice.
The Differences between Roof Racks and Roof Rails
Roof racks and roof rails are great for carrying bulky items on the roof of your vehicle. They both serve the same purpose: to give you extra cargo space. But they have different designs and uses.
Roof racks go across your car from side to side. They provide a strong base for things like roof top tents, kayaks, and other heavy items. They are perfect for carrying large and bulky loads securely.
Roof rails, on the other hand, run along the length of your car. They are usually factory-installed and are used as mounting points for other attachments. Roof rails help reduce wind resistance and improve fuel efficiency. They are more about providing a place to attach things rather than carrying heavy loads directly.
If you need to transport heavy and bulky items, roof racks are the way to go. For lighter, oversized items and improved aerodynamics, roof rails are ideal.
Types of roof racks
Roof rack systems come in various designs and attachment methods. They are made from materials like aluminium or other strong metals. Choosing the right type of roof rack for your vehicle ensures a secure fit for your gear, whether it's camping gear, fishing rods, surfboards, bicycles, or kayaks.
Material Types:
- Aluminium Roof Racks: These are lightweight yet strong. They are resistant to rust and corrosion, making them ideal for all weather conditions. Aluminium racks are great for carrying lighter items.
- Steel Roof Racks: These are heavier and more durable. They can handle larger and bulkier loads. Steel racks are perfect for off-road adventures where you need to transport a lot of gear.
Designs and Attachment Methods:
- Fixed Point Roof Racks: These racks attach to pre-designated points on your vehicle’s roof. They provide a solid base, making them perfect for carrying heavy loads like camping gear, rooftop tents, and bicycles.
- Raised Rail Roof Racks: These attach to the elevated rails that run along the sides of your car roof. They are highly versatile and can accommodate a range of items, including kayaks, fishing rods, and surfboards.
- Flush Rail Roof Racks: These connect to low-profile rails that sit close to your car roof. They offer a streamlined appearance and are ideal for lighter items such as luggage and smaller camping equipment.
- Track Mount Roof Racks: These racks slide into tracks installed on your car roof, allowing you to adjust their position. This flexibility ensures optimal load distribution, making them suitable for various cargo like bicycles and kayaks.
Choosing the right roof rack depends on your vehicle type and the cargo you need to transport. Aluminium is best for lighter, everyday use, while steel is ideal for heavy-duty, off-road adventures.
Mounting and Fitting Roof Accessories
Properly mounting and fitting roof accessories is very important. During the drive things can get loose. Start by using the right equipment for your specific roof rack or roof rail with tiedowns. Make sure you have the correct mounts and brackets to prevent damage and ensure a secure fit. Use a cargo net as an extra layer to secure the load.
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions. This includes the correct torque settings for bolts and proper placement of mounts.
Before setting off, double-check all attachment points. Accessories like roof top tents and kayaks should be secured with strong straps and clamps. Check for any movement and tighten as needed to prevent shifting during transport.
Distribute the weight evenly across the roof rack. Place heavier items in the centre and lighter ones on the edges. This helps maintain your vehicle’s balance and ensures a smoother ride.
During your trip, periodically inspect the tightness of bolts and straps. Road vibrations can loosen fittings, so it’s essential to check and re-tighten them if necessary.
Contact Our Experts
Do you need help choosing the right roof rack or have questions about mounting and fitting accessories? Reach out to our experts through our live chat on the site or call 1300 854 185. We’re here to assist you with all your roof rack needs.