Frequently asked questionsHow long does it take to make ?
A standard frame and cover takes about 12-15 working days to fabricate. We will agree a target completion date with you when you drop off the trailer. If, in the unlikely event, that there are any delays, we will keep you informed and if required, can offer a 'courtesy' trailer until yours is completed.
How is it fastened to the trailer ?
The frame is generally bolted to the trailer and can therefore be removed reasonably easily. The cover us attached to the frame with very strong Velcro and to the trailer base using shock cord (bungee). We can discuss other fastening options , but these are our tried and tested methods.
What materials do you use ?
The frame is made from box steel, primed and painted before the cover is fitted. The covers are made from heavy duty PVC, normally 560-610 grams per sq metre. This is a little lighter than a truck curtainside, but quite a bit heavier than the lightweight retail covers. We can provide samples if required. We only use heavy duty YKK zips and sliders as these have proven to be the most robust.
What does it add in weight ?
On a 14 foot trailer bed (approx 4.3m) with a height of around 1.7m, the weight is around 130kg. If weight is critical and you need an accurate measurement, we can take to a local weight bridge to give you a certified unladen weight.
What height is the frame ?
As each frame and cover is built bespokely, you can specify any height you like. Our standard recommended height is around 1.7-1.8m which is the optimum compromise between internal access and towing wind resistance. In an ideal world, the height should be around the same as the tow vehicle. Heights above 1.8m require more bracing in the frame (and of course, more material for the cover) and are charged accordingly. Contact us for more details on non-standard heights.
How long will it last ?
This will depend on use. We have covers that are used commercially on a daily basis that are 10 years old. Shock cord (bungee) can deteriorate with time but we can supply a simple refurbishment kit to replace any damaged or perished cord. Zips can also wear out with constant use, but again these an be replaced without having to write-off the cover. We enclose the zips as much as possible to avoid infiltration of road dirt. Other damage (rips / tears through accidents) can also be repaired. Please contact us if you have any repair requirements. These can be done without having to bring the whole trailer to us.
Can I make my own frame ?
We can make a cover to fit your own frame, however we do prefer to do the complete job as we with the years of experience we have, we know what works best. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.
How do I book my trailer in to have a cover fitted?
In the first instance, please contact us by phoneor e mail to discuss your requirements. We will provide a quote based on the information you have given us. If you would like to go ahead, we will offer you a fabrication start date and at this point ask for a £500 deposit to secure the slot (this is to ensure that we are able to dedicate our fabrication team to your trailer). When you drop off the trailer, we will complete a job card with the full specification and price. The deposit will, of course, be deducted from the final price. Payment of the balance is required before or on collection of the completed trailer.
What maintenance is required ?
The cover can be cleaned with road film remover and a jet wash. Some water-repellent spray on the zips will keep them in good order for longer and regular use will keep them from seizing.
When storing the trailer outdoors, try and keep the trailer tilted by raising the front on the jockey wheel, this will aid water run-off. Periodically check for pooling on the roof (particularly during any snow falls) and remove any pooled water by pushing from the inside. WHat options would you recommend?
Additional half height doors can make strapping down a very easy job, particularly if the car is tight up against the side of the trailer. On small trailers (less than 14 feet long), there is usually sufficient access between the centre doors and the rear door to make additional doors at the rear unnecessary.
As well as providing access for a winch, an access door at the front can make loading easier and provide access for any items stored at the front of the trailer. A tyre rack or storage shelf can be built into the frame to make carrying additional items easier. On a trailer which is stored outdoors for extended periods between use, Correx roof sheets can provide additional protection from water-pooling on the roof. All the options are shown on this page. If there is something you'd like but can't see, please contact us and we will see if we can help. My trailer has a tyre rack and/or jerry can box, is this a problem?
If the tyre rack extends beyond the bed of the trailer then it does make the fabrication of the frame more complex to enclose it, and more importantly to prevent rubbing on the PVC cover. The good news is that there is a simple solution. You can remove the existing tyre rack and sell it (usually very easily) and we can fabricate a tyre rack into the frame for a small additional cost - usually less than you'll get for the manufacturer's tyre rack.
Jerry can boxes can usually be accommodated as they tend to sit on the A frame outside the trailer bed. On some instances they may have to be moved an inch or two to proved clearance but we can do this. We obviously make sure there is sufficient clearance for jockey wheel handle use. what colours are available for the cover?
We have a range of colours available;Black, Navy Blue, Admiral Blue, Yellow, Orange, Grey, Green, Red and White are amongst the most popular colours. We also have a metallic Silver which is available at surcharge of £7.50 per foot of trailer bed length (pro rata if in combination with another colour).
Colours can be combined - for example a red roof, front and rear with black sides etc. We can send samples if required or actual material can be seen on drop off of the trailer (swatch below) |
Trailer cover pricing (w.e.f 1st March 2022)
Options Pricing
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