Steel Pelmets vs Traditional QLD Flaps - Which Tarp System is Right for You?

When it comes to keeping your load dry, the way your tarp seals against the body of your tipper can make a significant difference to performance, safety and maintenance.

Many tipper operators still use the traditional Queensland-style flap with ropes and rubbers, secured manually at the front and rear, while others have upgraded to steel or aluminium pelmets. Both systems have their place, but understanding the differences can help you choose the best option for your operation.

A roll-over tarp system from Ellis and Sons Group for Ben Scott Contracting (Forbes NSW) with a traditional flap seal. — A semi-trailer with a roll-over tarp system using traditional QLD flaps.

Traditional QLD Flaps

For many years, QLD-style flaps have been the standard choice and continue to provide a simple, effective sealing system.

Advantages:

Lower initial cost
Straightforward design that's familiar to most operators
Easy to replace individual ropes or rubbers if required
Provides an excellent waterproof seal when correctly fitted and maintained

Things to Consider:

Ropes and rubbers naturally wear over time and require ongoing maintenance
Not suitable for use with spring and assistance cable systems, as the cable wears through the flap
Not suitable for electric or assisted tarp systems
Loose ropes and flaps can create movement while travelling, leading to increased wear on the tarp
More time consuming to open and close the tarp due to undoing and resecuring ropes and rubbers.

A roll-over tarp system with an aluminium pelmet fitted by Ellis and Sons Group for Elliot Shannon — A roll-over tarp system with an aluminium pelmet with the tarp open (left) and closed (right).

Steel and Aluminium Pelmets

Pelmets provide a more permanent sealing solution and are becoming increasingly popular on modern tipping bodies.

Advantages:

Quicker to operate, with no need to manually undo and re-secure front and rear ropes and rubbers
Cleaner, neater appearance
Eliminates external ropes and rubber straps
Helps create a more consistent seal along the body
Less routine maintenance compared to rope and rubber systems
Professional finish that can improve the overall presentation of your truck
Suitable for both electric and manual tarp systems

Things to Consider:

Higher initial investment than a traditional flap system
Installation requires the pelmets to be fitted to the body.
Not every existing body is suited to retrofitting without modification.

A rubber mounted fixing to a pelmet - to overcome the risk of flex cracking.

Which System is Best?

If you're looking for a cost-effective, proven solution, a traditional QLD flap system continues to perform well with regular maintenance.

However, if your priorities are reduced maintenance, a cleaner appearance and longer-term durability, pelmets are an excellent investment that many operators find pays for itself over time.

At Ellis & Sons, we manufacture quality Australian-made tarps to suit both traditional rope-and-rubber systems and modern steel or aluminium pelmet installations. If you're unsure which option is right for your truck, we're always happy to discuss your requirements and recommend the best solution.

Our steel and aluminium pelmet range is engineered with attention to the finer details. Rubber-mounted fixings absorb body flex to reduce the risk of cracking during travel, while premium rubber pelmet seals provide a reliable 100% waterproof seal. It's these small details that contribute to a longer-lasting, better-performing tarp system.

Get in touch with our team today to learn more or request a quote.