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Are Aluminium or Steel Roof Bars Better for Add-Ons?
Choosing the right roof bars is one thing — but if you're planning to add accessories like roof tents, cargo boxes, or tool holders, the material of your roof bars really matters.
In this post, we’ll compare aluminium vs steel roof bars, and explain which is better depending on how you use your car, van, or SUV.
⚙️ What’s the Difference Between Aluminium and Steel Roof Bars?
| Feature | Aluminium Bars | Steel Bars |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Lightweight alloy | Heavy-duty steel |
| Weight | Light | Heavier |
| Mounting | T-track channel | Clamp-on (usually) |
| Accessories | More flexible options | Basic add-ons only |
| Looks | Sleek, modern | Chunkier, utility-style |
| Price | Higher | Lower |
Both types are strong — but aluminium bars offer more flexibility, especially for add-ons.
🔗 Why Aluminium Bars Are Better for Accessories
If you plan to expand your setup, aluminium bars are the go-to.
Here’s why:
✅ 1. Built-In T-Track Channels
T-track slots let you slide in brackets, mounts, and bolts, making it super easy to:
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Mount bike racks
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Add roof baskets
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Fit LED light bars or awnings
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Swap accessories without tools
🔗 See: Roof Bar Accessories for Camping
✅ 2. Lightweight & Fuel-Efficient
Aluminium bars are significantly lighter than steel, which helps:
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Reduce drag and fuel use
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Keep your setup quieter
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Prevent roof weight overload (especially with tents)
Perfect if you're combining roof boxes + gear.
✅ 3. Modern Look & Aerodynamic
Most aluminium bars are oval or wing-shaped, cutting through air better than square steel bars.
They also sit flush for a clean, low-profile finish.
🛠️ When Steel Bars Make Sense
Steel bars are still a solid choice if you:
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Need a basic load system
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Carry ladders, pipes or bulky items
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Want a lower-cost option
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Don’t plan to add modular gear
They’re strong, durable, and often used for trade vans and work vehicles.
🔐 Accessory Fitment: Clamp vs T-Track
If you already own clamp-on gear (like older bike racks or boxes), you may not need T-track compatibility.
But most new accessories — from Farad to Thule — now use T-track bolts by default.
Aluminium bars are future-proof.
🔗 Shop T-Track Compatible Bars
💬 Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
| If You... | Go For... |
|---|---|
| Want modular gear | Aluminium |
| Use roof tents or awnings | Aluminium |
| Carry work gear occasionally | Steel |
| Want a clean, low-noise setup | Aluminium |
| Just need basic load bars | Steel |
| Want long-term flexibility | Aluminium |