If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who loves camping and overlanding, then having a roof top tent can greatly enhance your adventures Hard shell roof top tents are becoming increasingly popular due to their durability and ease of use However, purchasing a brand new hard shell roof top tent can be quite costly Luckily, 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.
Building a DIY hard shell roof top tent is not as difficult as it may seem With the right tools, materials, and a bit of patience, you can create a custom tent that meets your specific needs and preferences In this article, we will guide you through the steps of building your very own hard shell roof top tent.
**Materials and Tools Needed**
Before you start building your DIY hard shell roof top tent, you will need to gather the necessary materials and tools Here is a list of what you will need:
Materials:
– Hard shell roof top tent shell (can be purchased online or salvaged from an old tent)
– Marine plywood for the base
– Insulation foam
– Fabric for the tent walls
– Aluminum or steel bars for the frame
– Hinges and latches
– Sealant and adhesive
– Foam mattress
Tools:
– Circular saw
– Drill
– Screwdriver
– Staple gun
– Measuring tape
– Paint brush
– Sandpaper
**Building Steps**
1 **Design your tent:** Start by designing your tent on paper Determine the size and shape of the tent that will fit on your vehicle’s roof Consider the number of people who will be using the tent and any specific features you want to include.
2 **Prepare the base:** Cut the marine plywood to the desired dimensions for the base of your tent Make sure it fits securely on your vehicle’s roof rack Sand down the edges to ensure a smooth finish.
3 **Add insulation foam:** Glue insulation foam to the base of the tent to provide warmth and comfort while sleeping Trim the excess foam with a knife for a clean look.
4 **Build the frame:** Construct a frame using aluminum or steel bars that will support the tent shell Attach the frame to the base using screws and brackets diy hard shell roof top tent. Make sure the frame is sturdy and can support the weight of the tent.
5 **Attach the tent shell:** Secure the tent shell to the frame using hinges This will allow you to easily open and close the tent when needed Add latches to keep the shell closed while driving.
6 **Add fabric walls:** Use the fabric of your choice to create walls for the tent Staple the fabric to the frame, ensuring a snug fit You can also add windows or vents for ventilation.
7 **Seal and paint:** Seal any gaps or seams with sealant to prevent leakage Paint the tent shell and frame with a waterproof sealant to protect it from the elements.
8 **Add mattress:** Place a foam mattress inside the tent for a comfortable sleeping area Make sure it fits snugly and can be easily removed for cleaning.
9 **Test it out:** Before hitting the road, make sure to test out your DIY hard shell roof top tent to ensure everything is working properly Set it up on your vehicle’s roof rack and spend a night in it to see how it holds up.
Building your own DIY hard shell roof top tent can be a rewarding project that allows you to customize your camping experience With a bit of creativity and some elbow grease, you can create a durable and functional tent that will accompany you on many outdoor adventures So why wait? Start building your DIY hard shell roof top tent today and hit the road with confidence.
By building your DIY hard shell roof top tent, not only will you save money, but you will also have the satisfaction of knowing that you created something with your own hands Happy camping!