Roof Weight Rating

The load rating is the amount of weight the vehicle manufacturer says the roof can handle.

Roof weight rating.

Static load rating when the vehicle is stationary. Check the racks have a weight rating of 125 lbs or more as their dynamic load which will then be at least be equal to or greater than the weight of the rooftop tent. This is all of the natural stresses imposed upon a roof such as snow loads rain loads and wind loads. There are 3 types of load rating and the cargo rating.

The load increases with the use of heavier roofing material. When it comes to estimating the weight of an existing roof field verification of the in place construction is necessary. This is highly regional as weights of snow for example range from 10 to 300 pounds per square foot based on moisture and volume of the snow. When you have the roof racks to support your rooftop tent fitted they will be placed around 30 inches apart.

Wind loads depend on wind speed and can vary as widely as the snow. Driving either on highways or around town will be fine with this type of dynamic load. A built up roof for example will typically include the built up membrane itself with or without gravel as well as some kind of insulation and cover board which will vary in thickness from roof to roof. Though in many cases the racks can withstand greater loads to avoid damage to your vehicle it is important to understand your vehicles limitations.