Are you planning to buy a ute canopy? Do you know the advantages and limitations of the various materials used for a ute canopy? In today’s blog post, we will discuss the various advantages and limitations of materials such as aluminium, steel, canvas and fibreglass for ute canopies and how you should go about choosing a material for your own requirements.

Materials for Ute Canopies

Most people who use a ute for work prefer buying a chassis-only vehicle that allows them to install a canopy based on their own particular requirements. There are different types of designs and materials for making canopies and not all types of materials are right for everyone. Here’s a little guide on choosing the right material for your ute canopy.

1. Aluminium

   There is no denying that aluminium is the most popular material for making a canopy. It is lightweight but still strong. When you compare aluminium with steel, you will find that it is about half the weight of a steel canopy and is still strong enough to keep things safe inside. It is also corrosion-resistant. You can leave aluminium exposed to natural elements and nothing will happen to it. Having said that, aluminium is a softer material compared to steel and won’t be the right choice if you plan to carry heavy tools and equipment such as sledgehammers, jackhammer drill bits, landscape materials or other heavy loads in the back of your ute. If your job involves carrying heavy materials, it is better to go for a steel canopy.

2. Steel

   Steel is by far the strongest material available for constructing a canopy. It is also cheaper than aluminium. However, it has too many limitations and this is why it is not the best option for everyone. One of the limitations of a steel canopy is that it is heavy. A steel canopy of equivalent size to an aluminium canopy is almost double the weight. A heavy canopy not only affects fuel efficiency but also decreases the total payload capacity. Another limitation of a steel canopy is that it is prone to corrosion. However, steel is a tough material and is an excellent choice for vehicles designed to carry heavy loads.

3. Canvas

   Canvas is the cheapest option when it comes to canopy materials. It is the right choice if you want something on a budget. Keep in mind that canvas is typically draped over a steel frame mounted on the vehicle. Canvas, as a material, does not make your vehicle secure but it does offer privacy.

4. Fibreglass

   Fibreglass is another excellent choice for a canopy. It has excellent strength and is lightweight compared to aluminium. Fibreglass is widely used but one of its main limitations is its high cost as compared to aluminium. However, the advantage of fibreglass is that it is low maintenance as there is no risk of corrosion. When it comes to limitations, fibreglass requires periodic recoating which does add to the overall cost. Additionally, a small crack may compromise the strength of the whole canopy.

How to Choose the Right Ute Canopy?

So far, we have discussed the advantages and limitations of various materials used for a ute canopy. However, other than the materials, you also need to consider several other factors to choose the right ute canopy for you.One factor to consider is the design of your ute canopy. You have a huge range of options for the design. In addition to standard designs, you could get a custom-made canopy that fits your specific requirements, needs, and preferences. Whether you choose a standard or a custom design, make sure to partner with an experienced design and manufacturing company with an excellent reputation. Discuss your requirements and ask the design team to come up with a design that matches your needs. The design team should also be able to help you choose the right material for your canopy.

Final Thoughts

Overall, a wide range of materials is available for making ute canopies including aluminium, steel, canvas, and fibreglass. Aluminium is the most popular choice as it is lightweight yet strong. Steel and fibreglass are also great options in particular situations. Carefully go through the pros and cons of various materials to choose something that works for you and is available within your budget. MFI Automotive Group is one of the country’s premier canopy and service body design and manufacturing teams. 

For more information regarding high-quality service bodies, please call us today at MFI Automotive Group on 1300 634 669 or get in touch with our friendly sales team here.