Same Functionality Enhancement for Cars, Here is the Difference Between Roof Rail and Roof Rack
For those who are not very familiar with automotive, but want to add functionality to their car, they may not know the difference between roof rails and roof racks. Both indeed provide important functions, but which one is actually more important?
You can check out the following explanations about the difference between roof rails and roof racks for reference if you want to add a little more touch to your personal vehicle.
Functions of Roof Rails and Roof Racks
Not all types of cars come with roof rails; only a few are equipped with roof rails from the factory. However, you can install roof rails yourself. So, what is the function of roof rails that makes some car owners willing to spend money to install this additional accessory?
Usually, there are two reasons why car users want to install roof rails, which are for decoration and as a base for installing roof racks. Roof rails do make the car look more robust. However, in addition to that, roof rails can also serve as a base for installing roof racks.
Roof racks are indeed very useful as additional luggage space on top of the car. They are especially needed when car owners want to travel long distances with a lot of items, such as moving or going home during holidays.
Match the Material with the Type of Car
The difference between roof rails and roof racks next is the material. This difference will affect the installation method of the accessories.
When our car is not equipped with roof rails from the factory, we need to be careful in choosing the type of material for the roof rails and roof racks that will be used. This is to avoid damage to the car body.
The materials for roof rails are divided into three types, namely iron-titanium, iron, and fiber-carbon. These three types will have different installation methods.
For roof racks, there are two different types of materials, namely plastic and iron. This does not significantly affect the installation method, but the weight that the roof rack can carry will depend on the material used.
Difference Between Roof Rails and Roof Racks in Terms of Installation
Different materials mean different installation methods. For roof rails made of iron-aluminum, they must be drilled into the top of the car so that they can be installed properly and securely. Drilling the car roof can certainly affect the body and may cause leaks when it rains.
Another installation method is by clamping it to the car's roof frame. This is usually for roof rails made of iron. The side effect is that it can bend the car roof. Lastly, for roof rails made of fiber-carbon, they can be installed using adhesive with sealer.
Roof racks can also be installed by drilling or clamping to the roof frame with the help of roof rails. Make sure to pay attention to the car's load capacity so that it does not force the car to carry weight beyond its capacity.
How to Maintain Roof Rails and Roof Racks
The most vulnerable time for roof rails and roof racks to get damaged is after a long journey in the rain. You should clean them promptly to ensure both last longer.
Simply clean with soap and wipe until clean. Or you can use a special liquid that can be purchased at automotive stores to clean roof rails and roof racks. The important thing is to ensure that both tools are completely dry.
That is the difference between roof rails and roof racks that you can learn when you want to install them on your beloved car. Once installed, don’t forget to take good care of them!
Author: Nisa Maulan Shofa
