How to Prevent Roof Bar Rust, Damage & Wear Over Time

Roof bars are built to take a beating — from heavy gear and long motorway miles to the British weather. But even the toughest bars will degrade over time if not looked after properly.

Here’s how to keep your roof bars rust-free, safe, and looking smart year-round.

🌧️ The Main Threats to Your Roof Bars

Roof bars are constantly exposed to:

• Rain and road spray (salt in winter is especially corrosive)

• UV rays which can fade paint or plastic coatings

• Heavy loads causing bending or warping over time

• Poor storage or neglect between trips

Without maintenance, this all adds up to:

• Rust forming on metal bars

• Rubber feet cracking

• Loose fittings

• Rattling, vibration and noise on the road

🧼 1. Clean Your Roof Bars Regularly

After every trip — especially winter or muddy conditions — do a quick clean:

✅ What to Use:

• Warm water and car shampoo

• Microfibre cloth (avoid harsh scrubbing pads)

• Old toothbrush for rubber pads and crevices

🔗 Car Care & Cleaning Products

❌ Avoid:

• Strong solvents or abrasive chemicals

• Jet washing too close (can damage seals or coatings)

🧴 2. Apply a Protective Coating

Just like your car’s paint, roof bars benefit from a protective finish.

🛡 Recommended:

• Use a rubber-safe trim restorer on foot packs and end caps

• Apply a light metal sealant or wax to aluminium or steel bars

• Consider a ceramic coating if you leave them on all year

📌 Tip: Wipe off any standing water after rain to stop corrosion setting in.

🔧 3. Check Fixings & Rubber Components

Over time, exposure can weaken the roof bar’s fittings and rubber pads.

🔗 Roof Bar Accessories & Spares

Replacements are inexpensive — and far cheaper than new bars!

🧳 4. Store Them Right When Not in Use

Leaving your bars on permanently? It’s fine short-term, but long-term exposure invites trouble.

🚫 Bad Storage:

• Tossed in the shed under garden tools

• Leaned against a wall

• Left outdoors in winter

✅ Good Storage:

• Inside their original box or a padded bag

• Flat on a shelf or hung using wall hooks

• Dry, temperature-stable space like a loft or garage

📌 Don’t forget to label your foot packs or vehicle-specific kits!

🔧 5. Re-Tighten After Trips

Vibration from long journeys can loosen even well-fitted bars.

Always:

• Re-tighten bars after your first 30–60 mins of driving

• Recheck all clamps before reusing after storage

• Inspect key-lock systems for wear

🔗 How to Fit Roof Bars Safely

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

📚 Related Blog Posts:

• Roof Bar Safety Tips

• How to Clean & Store Roof Boxes & Tents

• Best Roof Bar Accessories for Camping

🔗 Useful Links:

• All Roof Bars

• Bar Accessories & Spares

• Car Cleaning Kits