A roof rack is on top of the vehicle and is used for extra storage space to carry large items such as kayaks, canoes, luggage, or big containers. Roof racks do not come standard on all vehicles, so if you are looking to purchase a car, a roof rack may be something to consider if you need extra storage space. They are also the most stable method for transporting gear.
Choosing a Roof Rack
If you already have a vehicle, but it does not have a roof rack, there are roof racks available to purchase. An online fit guide will have you enter the make, model, and year of your vehicle to ensure the proper fit. The roof rack is the most versatile system and leaves extra room in the interior of the vehicle for passengers.
Benefits of a Roof Rack
The benefits of a roof rack include increasing the storage space of your vehicle, increasing legroom inside the vehicle, and providing a solid platform for transporting sporting equipment. The last of these is important because if you do not secure sporting equipment properly to your vehicle, it can become a safety hazard to you and those around you while you are driving.
How to Use a Roof Rack
Most roof racks come with three components, side rails, towers, and mounts. The towers attach to the rails, while the mounts hold the system to the vehicle. To secure items to the roof rack, tie down the equipment with four points of contact. This will give you the most stability. While tying down the equipment, hold the straps tightly so you do not need to tie a bunch of knots. Wrap the straps around the equipment a few times, on all four areas, to ensure the equipment is properly secure to the roof rack.
Potential Problems with Roof Racks
Some common problems people have found with roof racks include dust collecting under the feet which rubs away the clear coat, the straps scratching the paint, and the rack shifting in high winds. Check the roof rack regularly to ensure it is properly secured to the top of your vehicle.
A roof rack is a convenient place to store luggage, sports equipment, and other bulky items that may not fit in the interior of the vehicle. They are simple to use and last for the lifetime of the vehicle.
