If you are an avid camper and love spending time in the great outdoors, then a roof top tent can be a great addition to your camping gear Roof top tents are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and versatility However, purchasing a brand new hard shell roof top tent can be quite expensive
But fear not, with a bit of creativity and some DIY skills, you can build your own hard shell roof top tent at a fraction of the cost In this article, we will guide you through the process of building your own DIY hard shell roof top tent.
**Materials Needed**
Before embarking on this DIY project, you will need to gather the necessary materials Here is a list of materials you will need to build your own hard shell roof top tent:
– Plywood
– Fiberglass resin
– Fiberglass cloth
– Hinges
– Locks
– Weather stripping
– Gas struts
– Roof rack
– Mounting hardware
**Building the Shell**
To start off, you will need to create the shell of the roof top tent Begin by cutting the plywood to the desired size and shape of your tent Once you have the plywood cut to size, you can start working on creating the hard shell by applying fiberglass resin and cloth to the plywood This will make the shell of the tent sturdy and durable.
After the fiberglass has dried, install the hinges and locks on the shell Make sure the hinges are sturdy enough to support the weight of the tent when it is opened Weather stripping can be added to the edges of the shell to prevent any water from seeping in during rainy weather.
**Adding the Tent**
Once the shell is complete, it is time to add the actual tent to the roof top tent You can either purchase a pre-made tent that fits the dimensions of your shell or you can opt to sew your own tent using waterproof and durable fabric diy hard shell roof top tent. Attach the tent to the inside of the shell using mounting hardware.
**Installing the Gas Struts**
To make it easier to open and close the roof top tent, you can install gas struts on either side of the shell The gas struts will help support the weight of the tent when it is opened and will make it easier to close the tent when not in use.
**Mounting on the Roof Rack**
Once the roof top tent is complete, you will need to mount it on your vehicle’s roof rack Make sure the roof rack is sturdy and securely attached to your vehicle Use the mounting hardware to attach the roof top tent to the roof rack.
**Testing**
Before you head out on your camping trip, it is important to test the roof top tent to ensure that everything is in working order Open and close the tent a few times to make sure it functions properly Check for any leaks or damages that may need to be addressed before you hit the road.
**Benefits of a DIY Hard Shell Roof Top Tent**
Building your own hard shell roof top tent has several benefits Not only is it a budget-friendly option, but it also allows you to customize the tent to your liking You can choose the size, shape, and color of the tent to suit your needs and preferences Additionally, DIY projects can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, giving you a sense of accomplishment when you see the finished product.
In conclusion, building your own DIY hard shell roof top tent is a fun and practical project for camping enthusiasts With the right materials and a bit of creativity, you can create a sturdy and durable roof top tent that will provide you with comfort and convenience during your outdoor adventures So grab your tools and get started on building your very own hard shell roof top tent today!