The Accessory Dream Guide Issue 5

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WHAT TRUCK CANOPY IS RIGHT FOR ME?

Article by: Tyller Rice

Truck canopies are one of the most common accessories you can consider for your truck. But how do you choose the right one for you? The first question you need to ask is what is the primary use of the canopy? Will it be for work or play? Work canopies are typically referred to as DCC – Deluxe Commercial Truck Cover. They are made of aluminum versus fiberglass and are available with a myriad of options such as: built-in drawers, shelves, sliding floor beds, lockers, ladder racks, double doors, power outlets, and custom lighting. The manufacturers’ websites will offer some options, but you are better served by visiting an authorized dealer for a more detailed conversation about your requirements because there are so many customized choices and layouts. A DCC can take anywhere from 4-6 weeks to arrive from the manufacturer and it will take about 1.5-2 hours to install, depending on the options you have ordered. These canopies are custom-made for your truck’s year, make and model so that each one is a perfect fit. Your work canopy can also be colour-matched for that added touch. Most DCCs come with a lifetime warranty on the structure. They can weigh between 200-400 lbs., so each work cap is not as easy to remove as a consumer-grade topper. Should you wish to purchase a canopy for personal use, such as for fishing and camping, or perhaps just to keep your truck bed safe and clean while hauling groceries, supplies, and pets around, there are nearly as many options available to you. Generally made from fiberglass, consumer canopies are lighter than their commercial counterparts. They are generally delivered in 2-3 weeks and come

with a few more creature comforts to support the active user. For instance, options such as the Thule roof rack system provide compatibil- ity to all of Thule’s carrier systems to support your active lifestyle with everything from your bike to your canoe. Choose from sliding screen or fixed side windows, interior lighting and power outlets. Canopies can come at a flush-mounted to the cab height or several inches taller to accommodate more space for cargo as well as for your ease of use. Not only are canopies versatile and well thought-out on the inside, they are also durable and streamlined on the outside to enhance the look of the trucks they complete. From a $500 full colour paint match, which is included in the fiberglass canopy price (except for tri-colour paints) to adding roof racks and different sized windows, canopies have come a long way in the last 10 years. Leer is one of the top brands on the market. They have been in business since the late 1960s, so they have earned their excellent repu- tation through experience. Under their corporate name of Truck Accessories Group (TAG), Leer sells multiple brands, including Century Canopy. From materials to workmanship, value to warranty, and through their authorized dealers network, Leer is a very well-respected and reputable brand to consider when making a decision to fit your needs.

Whichever canopy and options you end up choosing, make sure you look at some common-sense installation add-ons such as a tailgate seal to keep dust and mois- ture out of your truck bed and a carpet- lined interior to better manage moisture and humidity when enjoying camping. Finally, don’t forget to schedule the annual inspection offered by your dealer to ensure you maintain your canopy in good order and that it remains safely and securely mounted on your truck bed. Enjoy your selection process as there are lots of great looking canopies that will work with your truck. Just be clear about your needs and expectations at the outset.

14 THE ACCESSORY DREAM GUIDE