Last Updated on April 11, 2023 by Will Sabel
The size and shape of your roof rack aren’t exactly ideal for carrying PVC pipes. Many users have faced safety issues while carrying those without the right gear. If you don’t want any unwanted troubles while carrying PVC pipes on your roof, you have to know how to attach PVC pipe to roof rack.
Luckily, there are some useful tools that will help you securely tie down the pipes. Although you have to spend some money to get those, but hey, you get to carry PVC pipes safely for a lifetime.
To help you transport PVC pipes on your roof rack, here I’ll describe the easiest and most secure process. So without wasting much time, let’s dive right in.
Attach PVC pipe on Roof Rack Using Conduit Carrier Kit
A conduit carrier kit adds to the versatility of a roof rack by allowing it to carry PVC pipes of different sizes. The kit attaches to the crossbars of your roof rack with some U-shaped bolts. Apart from the bolts, you also get an aluminum hinge door, end cap, hardware, and saddle bracket for mounting the pipes.
Here is a step-by-step process of using a conduit carrier kit to transport PVC pipe-
Step One – Gather Necessary Tools and Hardware
As almost all the hardware and tools are provided, you won’t need to spend anything extra to buy things separately. You’ll need a drill and the right-sized drill bit. Also, some conduit kits don’t come with cap fasteners (nuts and bolts).
If you want to secure the pipe ends, you need to purchase those separately. Otherwise, it’s okay to leave the pipe ends open as you’re not carrying anything inside the PVC pipe.
Step Two – Cover the Pipe Ends
As mentioned, covering the end is optional. You can completely skip this step if you feel so. However, for carrying things like rods inside the pipe, you must secure the ends.
Start by placing the end cap on the pipe end. You’ll need to drill at least four holes through the end cap and the pipe to mount the cap fasteners. When you’re done drilling, fasten the end cap using nuts and bolts of the right size.
Do the same for the front hinge door and use the provided lock to secure it.
Step Three – Place the PVC Pipe
Now it’s time to mount the pipe on your roof rack. Be it 6″, 8″, or 10″ PVC pipe, I recommend mounting it along the length of your side rails. This way, wind resistance will not be an issue.
Take help from a friend while mounting and align the pipe properly so that it doesn’t fall off accidentally while transporting.
Step Four – Secure with U-Shaped Bolts
Once you’ve placed the pipe in a suitable position, use the U-shaped bolts provided with the kit. You should place the bolts near the end of the pipe for greater stability. If your roof rack has cross bars, the point of attachment should be where the side rails meet the crossbar.
Place the U-bolt over the pipe and use the saddle bolt to secure it in place. Center the saddle bolt if needed. Use the provided lock washer and nuts to fasten the U-bolts around the PVC pipe. A wrench might help to tighten the hardware for better security.
When you’re done with one side, follow the same process to fasten the other end of the pipe. Thoroughly check the attachment points to make sure the pipe doesn’t wobble. And now you’re ready to travel with the PVC pipe securely placed on your roof rack.
Attach PVC pipe using pipe brackets or clamps
Tools and materials needed:
- PVC pipe
- Pipe brackets or clamps (sized appropriately for your PVC pipe)
- Screws or bolts (depending on the type of clamp or bracket you’re using)
- Screwdriver or drill
- Measuring tape
- Pencil or marker
- Level (optional)
Step 1: Plan and Mark Locations
Determine the appropriate location for your PVC pipe and evenly space your pipe brackets or clamps along the length of the pipe. Mark the locations on the wall, ceiling, or surface ensuring they are in a straight line and level.
Step 2: Attach Pipe Brackets or Clamps
Secure the pipe brackets or clamps to the marked locations using screws or bolts. Tighten them until secure, but avoid overtightening to prevent damage to the clamp or surface.
Step 3: Install PVC Pipe
Place the PVC pipe into the brackets or clamps. Make sure it is properly seated and secure. You can adjust the clamps to ensure a snug fit around the pipe.
Step 4: Check Alignment and Security
After the PVC pipe is in place, double-check the alignment and level of the pipe. Make any necessary adjustments to the brackets or clamps. Ensure the pipe is securely held in place and does not wobble or move excessively.
Step 5: Complete the PVC Piping System
Continue attaching the PVC pipe along its entire length using the same method. Connect additional pipes and fittings as needed to complete your PVC piping system, making sure all connections are secure and properly fitted.
Security Measures to Follow While Carrying PVC Pipe on Roof Rack
People have faced many unpleasant incidents while carrying pipes on their car roofs. That’s why you must follow some security measures to carry the pipes safely and avoid legal issues. The most important safety measures you need to follow are-
Not Overextending the PVC Pipe
There’s a safety limit for extending the pipe from your vehicle’s front and rear. The pipe can’t extend more than 9.8 feet from the driver’s seat. Similarly, it should not be placed past the 13 feet limit from your vehicle’s rear axle.
Remember, maintaining the front and rear limits is a must in some states. Otherwise, you might face legal issues.
Maintain Maximum Weight Limit
As you know, every vehicle has a maximum weight limit. Similarly, roof rack manufacturers also suggest a maximum carrying capacity so that the cargo doesn’t fall off during transportation. Also, excessive weight can harm the roof rack and your vehicle.
So, you should refer to the user manual to check out the carrying capacity of your vehicle and the roof rack. Measure the weight of the PVC pipe you’ll be carrying and ensure that it’s within the weight limit of your vehicle. Typically, the maximum capacity for regular cars is around 180 pounds.
Tie A Flag
To alert your fellow drivers, you should tie a bright flag on each end of the pipe. This will make the pipe even more noticeable and help you avoid unwanted accidents on busy roads. Also, in some places, using a flag is required by the law.
Wrapping Up!
So that was all about mounting PVC pipe on roof rack. The process I’ve mentioned here is the easiest and most secure method of carrying PVC pipe.
Just follow the given steps properly and you’ll be able to attach the pipe within minutes. Also, make sure you have checked on the safety measures for maximum security on the road.
