Roof racks are common features in modern vehicles especially SUVs and mini-vans. They are usually installed along the length of the roof of a car and are designed to provide additional capacity for loads carried on the roof of a vehicle. Users can attach roof racks to the roof of their vehicles using brackets or roof bars. Roof racks can be added to the roof of a vehicle as an attachment
Types and Sizes
There are many types of roof racks including steel roof rack and aluminium roof racks. You can get roof bars for rain gutters or Roof bars for attaching to Parallel bars.
Aluminium Racks with Cross bars are generally available for about £99 . Steel roof racks with 6 or 8 fitting brackets are generally in the range of £200 to £300.
Steel or Aluminium?
Steel roof racks are more expensive and are stronger .These come in sizes of 1.2m, 1.8m or 2.2 meters long. These are used mostly for vans and larger 4×4 vehicles where a heavier load carrying ability is required. Aluminium racks are mostly around 1.2m long and are lighter and hence better for fuel consumption . They are mostly adequate for normal cars , 4×4 vehicles and general family type of use. Aluminium racks are available in silver or black powder coated aluminium.
How do I measure my Roof Size ?
Measure the length and width of the roof of your vehicle. Do not buy a roof rack which juts out and is bigger than your roof. It is dangerous and you will have problems with your MOT if any part of your roof rack juts out and extends beyond the outline area of your vehicle. You can buy a rack smaller than your roof size or its exact size but not bigger. Aluminium Racks are available in 3 sizes
50 inches x 38 inches, 55 inches x 39.5 inches or 63 x 44 inches long
Roof Bars
It is important to know the distinction between parallel bars and cross bars. Parallel bars are also referred to sometimes as “rails” and are generally vehicle specific whereby the holes and bolts fit certain makes and models only. Cross bars are generally compatible and generic and are mostly supplied with a roof rack. These have to provide a stable foundation for mounting roof racks. Most roof racks come with cross bars but parallel bars are generally bought separately if your vehicle does not have any..
Advantages of a Roof Rack and why you should get one.
You never when you will need that extra space. Roof racks provide additional capacity for storing various items. Many people consider roof racks as open storage platforms for their vehicles. With a roof rack, you can pack as much or little as you want. Roof racks are especially important for carrying odd shaped or extra large items. You can also fit Roof Boxes on to your roof racks.
Whether you are going on a trek or holiday, you will probably have a lot to pack for you and your family. Some of the items that you may probably need for your trip include suitcases, bags, coolers, mountain bikes, . The list of items to pack on your next trip can be quite long. Unfortunately, your vehicle may only have space for a few items. In addition, you probably would not want your friends to spend the long road trip tightly packed in your vehicle. Roof racks provide additional storage for your car so that you and your family can have enough space in the car for that long road trip.
Aerodynamics, Weight and Fuel consumption
It is important that your roof rack does not slow your vehicle down or cause too much friction against the wind . Most roof racks have an aerodynamic front slope designed to cut into the wind flow and reduce resistance and wind friction.
Aluminium racks are about 10kg and do not make a substantial weight difference or increase your fuel consumption. Steel roof racks are around 35kg
How do you fit Roof Racks?
First look at your vehicle – does it have rain gutters/ridges or does it have parallel bars?
If your vehicle has Ridges/Gutters you can simply attach the brackets directly on to them. Alternatively you can get two Cross Bars to attach to them
If you have a vehicle with Parallel Bars you will need Cross Bars to go across upon which he roof rack will fit
If your vehicle has neither then you will likely have to get Parallel bars fitted first before you can buy a roof rack with cross bars. Most roof racks are sold with either Brackets or Cross bars as a set together.
Are there Different sizes of Roof Bars or Brackets?
Measure from the ridge gutter to the top of the roof and it could be 6, 9 or 11 inches. Roof bars are available in these sizes and there is some adjustment allowance. For vehicles with Gutters, the brackets required also some in different lengths most need the standard brackets and some need longer brackets.
How do you hold down your luggage & Safety Considerations
It is important to secure your luggage safely. Most roof racks come with side bars or cages which form a semi box but this generally is not enough on its own. You can hit a bump and the luggage can lift off. You can use elasticated hook straps or tie it up securely to ensure it does not move during transit. Always check that your roof rack is safe and secure before starting your vehicle. Do not overload your vehicle and do not allow goods to outstretch beyond your vehicle. Avoid high speeds when you have a loaded roof rack. It is the drivers responsibility to check all the brackets and fittings are tight and secure before moving the vehicle.