Canvas Canopy vs Aluminium Canopy

So, you’re looking to add a canopy to your ute, but you’re not sure whether to go for something made from canvas or solid aluminium plate. Luckily, there’s helpful guides around like this to help you make the right choice!

It’s always important to do your research before you go seeking out vehicle modifications. This is especially true if you’re going to be outfitting your vehicle for work purposes AND you want it to satisfy your adventurous spirit on the weekend. 

While there are plenty of benefits to choosing both types of canopies, one may be more suitable for you than the other, depending on your unique needs and requirements. To help you in deciding whether a canvas or aluminium canopy would better suit your needs, we’ve compared a few important factors down below:

Price

If price is a major factor for you to consider, you may want to look at getting a canvas canopy, as these are often less expensive than a solid aluminium alternative. 

Ease of Installation

Canvas canopies are also a lot simpler to install and remove than a solid aluminium canopy, which also contributes towards their lower price. If you one day decide you don’t want a canopy on your vehicle anymore, you will be able to remove the cover and canopy frame quickly and easily. 

Weight

Aluminium may be a lightweight material, but a solid canopy weighs a lot more than a canvas canopy. Canvas canopies are a great option to keep your weight down and will allow you to carry more. 

Corrosion-Resistance

Aluminium has anti-corrosive properties, which is what makes it such a popular choice of material for so many different applications. From high-rise infrastructure and public transport to spacecrafts, appliances and so much more, the corrosion resistant qualities of aluminium make it perfect for use in a variety of environments. The same goes with aluminium canopies, which guarantee to hold up well even when exposed to humid and wet conditions. On the other hand, canvas canopies are not as resistant when being constantly exposed to harsh environments. Which is why it is important to note that although we refer to them as canvas canopies, in fact, the covers are actually made from marine hooding material. This is the same fabric used for boat canopies and has many advantages over old-school canvas. 

Marine hooding –

• Doesn’t shrink as much as canvas and so the cover can be made to fit more firmly without risk of blowing out the zips
• UV resistant
• Mould resistant
• PVC backed so it doesn’t need to be water proofed in the future
• Same tensile strength as canvas 

Security & Protection

This is where the solid aluminium canopy trumps the canvas canopy as they are lockable. BUT WHAT IF THERE WAS A HYBRID OF THE TWO OPTIONS? A canopy that is aluminium, lightweight, lockable AND with a canvas cover so you can safely store all your tools and equipment during the week and then go off-road adventuring on the weekend. You can even sleep in the canopy or transport your hairy best mate. I know it’s pretty late to throw a curve ball option but it’s one that ticks the work/play boxes more than either of the other two.

Locking Cage Canopies

Cage canopies are lightweight but strong with framing throughout and fully welded. Some aluminium canopies make great tool boxes, but take them off road and you may quickly realise why they only tick the ‘work’ box. Unless it is designed for off road use, there is a tendency for some canopies to crack if taken along corrugated roads. Cage canopies, on the other hand, are designed for this type of use.

Cage canopies are customisable with the option of 2 or 3 doors, tray sides on or off, stainless steel bent tongue locks or chrome whale tail locks, removable mesh dividers, added shelving, spare tyre/gas bottle/jerry can holders etc. You can also increase your carrying capacity with a range of different roof rack solutions.

So, which one should you choose? Feel free to contact us for more information to ensure you get the best type of canopy to suit your needs.

Choose Great Racks for Purpose-Built Canopies in Perth

At Great Racks, we make purpose-built canopies that Perth tradies, outdoor enthusiasts, and all other utility vehicle owners can trust for great value and long-lasting performance. Whether you need a cage, canvas or aluminium canopy fitted for storing essential tools, specialised gear or carrying long and bulky materials, you can rely on our experienced team to deliver a canopy that ticks all the boxes. 

Think quality, think durability. With locally made canopies built from high quality materials with fast turnaround times, you can choose Great Racks time and time again with confidence. 

Contact us now for a free measure and quote on cage, canvas and aluminium canopies!