Fibreglass Vs ABS: Which Rooftop Tent Should I Buy?

When it comes to rooftop tents, choosing the right material is crucial. Fibreglass and ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) are two popular options, each with its unique advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we'll explore these materials in detail to help you decide which rooftop tent is the best fit for your adventures.

Fibreglass Rooftop Tents

What is Fibreglass?

Fibreglass is a lightweight, strong, and durable composite material made from fine fibres of glass woven together and bonded with resin. It's widely used in various industries due to its robustness and versatility.

Advantages of Fibreglass Rooftop Tents

- Durability: Fibreglass rooftop tents are highly durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions.

- Lightweight: They are lighter than many other materials, making them easier to handle and install.

- Aesthetic Appeal: Fibreglass can be molded into sleek and attractive designs.

Disadvantages of Fibreglass Rooftop Tents

- Cost: Fibreglass tents can be more expensive than other options.

- Fragility: While durable, they can crack or chip if subjected to severe impact.

ABS Rooftop Tents

What is ABS?

ABS is a thermoplastic polymer known for its toughness and impact resistance. It's commonly used in automotive parts, toys, and household appliances.

Advantages of ABS Rooftop Tents

- Affordability: ABS tents are generally more affordable than fibreglass options.

- Impact Resistance: They are less likely to crack or break upon impact.

- Easy to Manufacture: ABS can be easily molded into various shapes and sizes.

Disadvantages of ABS Rooftop Tents

- Weight: ABS tents can be heavier than fibreglass tents.

- UV Degradation: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause ABS to degrade over time.

Fiberglass vs. ABS – Which Weighs More?

When comparing ABS and fiberglass, it's natural to consider which material will weigh more on top of your car. A lighter rooftop tent will be much more fuel-efficient and easier to install on your car's roof.

In terms of weight, ABS is significantly lighter than fiberglass. For an average roof tent, ABS weighs around 60kg, whereas a fiberglass tent of the same size weighs approximately 90kg.

Is ABS Better for the Environment than Fiberglass?

Fiberglass is plastic reinforced with glass fiber, and its manufacturing process is much harsher on the environment. It releases toxins during production, which are harmful to both workers and the wider atmosphere.

ABS, on the other hand, is much safer to produce and is easily recyclable since it is a thermoplastic material. Fiberglass is impossible to recycle and often ends up in landfills.

Which Rooftop Tent Material Has Better Impact Resistance?

If you're planning off-grid microadventures on rocky terrain in the UK, your rooftop tent may encounter impacts. While a sturdy rooftop tent handles this well, choosing the right material is crucial for your adventures.

ABS rooftop tent stands out as a highly sturdy and impact-resistant material compared to fibreglass, which can crack under impact. ABS, being plastic-based and engineered for toughness, naturally offers superior impact resistance.

Conclusion

In the battle of fibreglass vs. ABS rooftop tents, the best choice depends on your unique needs and preferences. Fibreglass offers durability and lightweight convenience, while ABS provides affordability and impact resistance. Carefully consider these factors to make an informed decision and enhance your camping experience.

For more information or to explore our range of rooftop tents, feel free to contact us or reach out to your local supplier.

FAQs

What is the main difference between fibreglass and ABS rooftop tents?  

Fibreglass tents are lighter and more durable but costlier, while ABS tents are more affordable and impact-resistant but heavier.

Which rooftop tent material is more durable?  

Fibreglass is generally more durable, especially in extreme weather conditions, while ABS is more resistant to impacts.

Are fibreglass rooftop tents heavier than ABS rooftop tents?  

No, fibreglass tents are typically lighter than ABS tents.

How does the cost of fibreglass compare to ABS rooftop tents?  

Fibreglass tents are usually more expensive due to their durability and design appeal, whereas ABS tents are more budget-friendly.

Which rooftop tent material is better for the environment?  

Both materials have environmental impacts, but fibreglass's longer lifespan may result in less frequent replacements and waste.