Roof rack installation is an easier process than you might think. Whether you're skiing, snowboarding, kayaking, or just need to take all of your essentials with you on your next adventure, installing a roof rack on your vehicle is something that every sport and nature enthusiast should have! Below we will take a look at the benefits and different types of roof racks for your vehicle's roof and how to install them correctly and safely.
Benefits of Mounting a Roof Rack on Your Car or SUV
There are many benefits to having a roof rack system installed on the roof of your vehicle. Most cars are just too small to fit bikes, snowboards, skis, and water equipment, especially when carrying other luggage and gear for your vacation or weekend getaway. Installing a roof rack on your car also means you won't need a separate trailer to carry a large cargo box or basket.
Storage & Security
Not only are our roof racks extremely durable but most of them come equipped with an anti-theft lock. Our roof racks are designed for your car and will conveniently and safely store all of your belongings, so you have peace of mind wherever you go. All of your sports equipment and bikes will be more secure, and you will no longer have to fill up your car or SUV to max capacity.
Compatibility
Roof racks are universal, meaning they are customizable to fit any car or SUV. When used as a bike rack, roof racks are easy to install and unload the bike while keeping everything securely in place. The robust aluminum construction also makes it a strong and durable asset when you need it most and it can hold a maximum weight of 150 pounds. Universal racks must be chosen and purchased following their application list. So, you will buy the right length and kind of clamp for your model of vehicle. Our roof racks are compatible with kayak carriers, bike carriers, ski and snowboard carriers, and cargo baskets. Our Roof Racks are made exclusively in Italy, so you know you are getting high-quality roof racks, homologated and certified following the strictest European norms, that fit most vehicles and come with an owner's manual to make the installation process easy and stress-free.
Types of Roof Racks
There are many different roof racks on the market today and are normally categorized on how they connect to your vehicle's rooftop, the strength and durability of the hardware, and their compatibility with your rooftop accessories. Roof racks come in a variety that is suitable for different vehicles and it is important you know the difference to ensure your vehicle is getting properly fitted roof racks.
Roof Racks for Flush Side Rails
Flush rails are commonly found on vehicles without a sunroof and that have a flat surface. Flush side rails run from the front to the back of your vehicle and don't have space between the side rails and the vehicle. They may also have mounting holes to attach too.
Roof Racks for Raised Side Rails
Raised rails are elevated off the roof and have enough of a gap that you can slide your hand underneath. Raised roof rails are very functional for vehicles that have a sunroof as they can open more freely when the crossbars are mounted.
Roof Racks for Smooth Roofs
These roof racks are designed for cars that have no manufacturer rails on the roof and no designated attachment points. However, we have roof racks designed for smooth roof cars that work just the same and give you the same results as other roof racks that come with manufacturer rails already installed on the vehicle's roof.
Installing Roof Racks on Your Vehicle's Roof
Whether you've already purchased a roof rack or are looking to purchase one, ITALECONCEPTS has everything you are looking for. We will even install the roof racks free of charge to local customers. If you wish to install the roof rack yourself, it is a simple process that can be done in just under an hour. Our roof racks come preassembled with installation instructions and mounting hardware, making it easy to locate the fixed mounting points. If your vehicle didn't come with fixed mounting points from the factory, we do have roof racks that are compatible with your vehicle which also come with an instruction manual.
Installing a Roof Rack on a Smooth Roof, Flush Side Rails,
Fixed Mounting Points, or Flat Tracks
Step 1: Install Fit Kit Clips into Feet
Begin by installing the fit kit clips into the feet (or towers). The crossbars will attach to these feet. Most of our "universal" roof racks come pre-
assembled and you won't need to follow this step.
Step 2: Install Crossbars
The crossbars will be mounted to the feet at the bottom of the bar. The placement of the crossbars will depend on the rack model and vehicle. When measuring the placement of the crossbars, refer to the manufacturer's instructions.
Step 3: Place Rack on the Roof
Place the entire rack on the vehicle's roof and ensure it is tight. The installation will vary depending on your roof type. For smooth roofs, fit kit clips will clamp around the door frame or can be installed into pre-drilled holes. If your roof has flat tracks or factory flush side rails, the fit kit will install in these tracks. Vehicles with fixed mounting points will generally have covers that can be removed which allows you to attach a roof rack.
Installing a Roof Rack on Raised Side Rails
Step 1: Install Crossbars
From the bottom channels of the bar, mount the crossbars to the feet. The placement of the crossbar depends on your vehicle and rack model.
When measuring for the crossbar placement, refer to the instruction manual.
Step 2: Place Rack on the Roof
Once the entire roof rack is placed, make sure to tighten it down. The feet will then be attached directly to the raised side rails.