Questions To Ask Before Buying A Rolling Tarp System
A tarp is necessary for protecting items that are being stored on your flatbed truck. Without the tarp, the items could become damaged and you could lose out on business. To avoid this, it is important to take the time to carefully consider your selections for a rolling tarp system before making a final decision. If this is your first time buying a tarp system, knowing what to look for can be tricky. To help you narrow down your system choices, here are a couple of questions to ask yourself before choosing:
What Type of Material Do You Need?
Part of the process of narrowing down your choices is determining the material from which your tarp should be made. There are several material options, including steel, lumber, and glass. Each one has its own benefits that can play a role in which one is right for your flatbed truck.
For instance, if you usually carry loads consisting of steel freight, you likely need a steel tarp. The tarp is durable, inexpensive, and able to withstand any pressure that is put on it by your freight. The tarp is short and might require its own coverage to help protect it from rain though.
By contrast, a glass tarp is generally not recommended for steel freight. The tarp is made of a thick weave that is designed to protect the load from road dirt. If you have freight that requires more breathability than steel, it could be right for you.
How Much Maintenance Can You Contribute?
A rolling tarp system requires some level of maintenance. The maintenance required depends on the specifications of the system. If you do not want to spend too much time on servicing the system, you need to focus on systems that require a lot of work.
For instance, a system that requires regular oiling of its components and regular wiping to remove dirt grime would be considered high maintenance. You might have to replace key components and check the nuts and bolts of the system to ensure they are still intact. However, a tarp that is grease-free and labeled maintenance-free would likely require nothing more than an occasional wipe down of the railings and other visible parts.
Before making a decision on the system, talk to an auto parts accessories dealer who can walk you through your options. He or she can provide invaluable advice on which is right for your flatbed truck. Contact a company like Glider Systems Inc for more information and assistance.