How to Add a Roof Rack to Your Trailer: A Complete DIY Guide

Adding a roof rack to your trailer—whether it's an open utility trailer, enclosed cargo trailer, or teardrop camper—can dramatically increase your carrying capacity. Suddenly, you can haul kayaks, bikes, solar panels, rooftop tents (RTT), or extra camping gear without sacrificing interior space. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process step by step, covering both commercial kits and popular DIY approaches. This project typically takes 2–6 hours depending on your trailer's design and the rack type.

A classic utility trailer upgraded with a sturdy roof rack for kayak transport. Perfect for outdoor adventures!

Why Add a Roof Rack to Your Trailer?

Trailers often have limited space inside, especially enclosed ones. A roof rack lets you:

• Carry long items like kayaks, paddleboards, or ladders
• Mount solar panels for off-grid power
• Add a rooftop tent for extra sleeping space
• Boost overall utility for camping, overlanding, or hauling

Most trailer roofs aren't designed like car roofs, so mounting requires care to avoid leaks (on enclosed trailers) or structural damage.

Types of Roof Racks for Trailers

Choose based on your trailer type:

1. Gutter Mount Systems (e.g., Yakima Landing Pad + tracks or Rhino-Rack): Ideal for enclosed trailers with rain gutters. No drilling into the roof.
2. Side Wall / Clamp Mounts: Brackets clamp to side walls or frame rails (popular for teardrops and fiberglass trailers).
3. Direct Bolt-On: Bolt through the roof or frame (strongest but requires sealing holes).
4. DIY Unistrut / Angle Iron Builds: Affordable and customizable, using metal channel bolted to frame rails.
5. Ladder/Utility Racks (e.g., adjustable aluminum models on Amazon): Quick install for open or enclosed trailers, often 400–800 lb capacity.

For 2025–2026, popular options include Malone Auto Racks accessories, heavy-duty aluminum ladder racks, or custom Unistrut setups for solar.

Step-by-step DIY install on a cargo trailer—using salvaged parts for kayak and paddleboard storage.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

• Roof rack kit or components (crossbars, towers/brackets, tracks)
• Drill with metal/wood bits
• Wrenches, sockets, ratchet
• Measuring tape, level, marker
• Butyl tape or Dicor lap sealant (for enclosed trailers)
• Backing plates/washers (for bolts)
• Silicon sealant or Eternabond tape
• Safety gear: gloves, eye protection

Pro Tip: Always check your trailer's roof load capacity (often 100–500 lbs dynamic). Exceeding it risks damage or unsafe towing.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Step 1: Preparation and Planning

Park on level ground. Measure your trailer's width, length, and roof curvature. Locate structural frame rails (metal beams under the roof)—these are the strongest mounting points. Decide on front/rear crossbar placement for balance.

Clean the mounting areas thoroughly.

Step 2: Choose Mounting Method

For enclosed cargo trailers: Use gutter mounts or bolt to top rails. Avoid roof-only drilling unless reinforced.

For open utility trailers: Bolt directly to side rails or weld (if metalworking).

For teardrop/pop-up trailers: Side wall brackets are safest to preserve roof integrity.

Side-mounted brackets on a teardrop trailer—strong and leak-resistant design.

Step 3: Install the Base / Mounting Points

Position brackets or tracks. Use a level to ensure even height. Mark holes carefully.

Drill pilot holes if needed. For roof penetrations: Apply butyl tape under brackets, insert bolts with backing plates inside, then seal tops generously with Dicor or silicon.

Tighten to spec (usually 10–15 ft-lbs—don't overtighten aluminum parts).

Step 4: Attach Crossbars

Slide or bolt crossbars into towers/brackets. Most systems use clamp-style locks or T-bolts. Ensure bars are parallel and centered.

Add end caps or aero fairings if included for wind noise reduction.

Step 5: Test and Secure Load

Load test with light weight first. Drive short distance, check for movement or rattles. Use ratchet straps or tie-downs rated for your load.

Re-check bolts after 50–100 miles.

A rugged enclosed trailer setup with high-capacity roof rack—ready for kayaks and gear.

Safety Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Never exceed weight limits—distribute load evenly.
• Seal all holes properly to prevent leaks.
• Use thread locker on bolts to prevent loosening from vibration.
• Avoid mounting solely to thin sheet metal—always hit frame.
• Consider aerodynamics: Higher loads increase sway and fuel use.

Conclusion

Installing a roof rack transforms your trailer into a more versatile adventure machine. Whether you're going the DIY Unistrut route for budget or investing in a Yakima/Rhino-Rack system for ease, the key is proper mounting to structural points and thorough sealing/weatherproofing. With basic tools and patience, most people can complete this upgrade in a weekend. Happy towing—and safe travels!

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