What Are Roof Bars?

Roof bars are crossbars that mount across your vehicle’s roof. Once installed, they let you attach accessories such as:

• Roof boxes
• Bike racks
• Kayak/canoe carriers
• Ski and snowboard racks
• Cargo baskets
• Ladders and work equipment

Without roof bars, most vehicles can’t safely carry loads on the roof.

Why Do You Need Roof Bars for Your Car?

1) Extra Storage for Road Trips

Pair roof bars with a roof box to add a big chunk of storage space—perfect for family holidays, camping or long-distance travel.

2) Transport Sports Equipment

Cyclists, skiers and paddlers use roof bars to carry equipment safely without damaging the interior or blocking seats.

3) Ideal for Work Use

Tradespeople often choose roof bars to carry ladders, pipes and materials while keeping the cab tidy.

4) More Comfort Inside the Car

Moving bulky luggage onto the roof frees up legroom and improves comfort for passengers.

Types of Roof Bars for Cars

The right roof bars depend on your car’s roof style. These are the most common types:

Roof Bars for Raised Roof Rails

Raised rails run front-to-back with a visible gap underneath. Many bar systems clamp around the rails for quick fitting.

• Easy installation
• Often tool-free
• Strong and stable

Roof Bars for Flush Roof Rails

Flush rails sit close to the roof with no gap. These typically use a vehicle-specific fitting kit for secure mounting.

• Sleek, modern look
• Often more aerodynamic
• Common on SUVs and estates

Roof Bars for Bare Roof Cars

If your car has no rails, roof bars usually attach at the door frame using a tailored fitting kit.

• Works for many vehicles
• Secure when correctly fitted
• Great option if your car has no rails

Roof Bars for Fixed Points

Some cars have hidden factory mounting points under small covers. These bars bolt into the fixed points for maximum security.

• Very secure mounting
• Clean look
• Often manufacturer-style fit

How to Find the Right Roof Bars for Your Car

1) Know Your Make, Model and Year

Roof bars are often vehicle-specific. Small changes between model years can affect compatibility. Always identify your exact make, model and year.

2) Confirm Your Roof Type

Before buying, check whether your roof is: raised rails, flush rails, bare roof, or fixed points. This determines the bar and fitting kit you need.

3) Check Weight Capacity

Most systems support roughly 50kg–100kg, but your vehicle’s roof load limit is the final rule. Remember to include the weight of your accessories (roof box, bike rack, etc.) in the total.

4) Consider Aerodynamics and Noise

Aerodynamic bars can reduce wind noise and drag, which may help comfort and fuel economy on longer drives.

Aluminium vs Steel Roof Bars

Aluminium Roof Bars

• Lightweight
• Often more aerodynamic
• Typically quieter at motorway speeds
• Sleek appearance

Best for: roof boxes, bikes, everyday use.

Steel Roof Bars

• Very strong and durable
• Often more budget-friendly
• Great for heavier, frequent loads

Best for: work vehicles, ladders, trade use.

Installing Roof Bars on Your Car

Many roof bar systems can be installed in 10–20 minutes with the provided instructions. A typical fitting process looks like this:

1. Identify your roof type (rails, bare roof, or fixed points)
2. Assemble the bars and feet
3. Position the bars at the recommended spacing
4. Tighten clamps/bolts evenly
5. Double-check alignment and security

Tip: correct bar spacing helps distribute weight and keeps accessories (like roof boxes) stable.

Are Roof Bars Safe?

Yes—when installed correctly and used within weight limits. For safe use:

• Follow the manufacturer’s fitting instructions
• Do not exceed your vehicle’s roof load limit
• Secure all cargo properly
• Re-check bolts/clamps after the first short drive
• Inspect regularly on long trips

Roof Bars vs Roof Racks: What’s the Difference?

People often use the terms interchangeably, but they’re slightly different:

• Roof bars: the crossbars fixed to your roof or rails
• Roof rack: a basket/platform that mounts on roof bars

Think of roof bars as the foundation for most roof-carrying accessories.

Best Accessories to Use with Roof Bars

• Roof boxes for luggage and prams
• Bike carriers
• Kayak/canoe mounts
• Ski and snowboard carriers
• Cargo baskets

With the right setup, roof bars turn your car into a flexible transport solution for travel, sport and work.

Where to Buy Roof Bars for Your Car

The best roof bars are the ones that fit your car exactly. At Roofboxed.com, you can find compatible roof bars by selecting your:

• Car make
• Model
• Year
• Roof type

This helps ensure the system you choose is designed to fit properly and install securely.

Ready to upgrade? Explore roof bars and compatible accessories at Roofboxed.com.