Embarking on a DIY van build is an exciting yet challenging journey. Whether you’re planning to use your van for weekend getaways, full-time travel, or even as a mobile workspace, the key to a successful build lies in making strategic purchases that enhance your van’s functionality and versatility. Amid the countless decisions you’ll need to make—like choosing insulation, selecting appliances, or designing storage—one upgrade stands out as a must-have for every DIY van builder: a roof rack.
The right roof rack can significantly impact your van build by creating extra storage, improving organization, and providing the foundation for essential accessories like solar panels, rooftop tents, and more. Orion’s purpose-built roof racks are designed with DIY van builders in mind, offering durability, flexibility, and a seamless installation process that makes them the perfect starting point for any project.
In this guide, we’ll explore why an Orion roof rack should be one of the first purchases you make for your DIY van build. We’ll cover the benefits it brings to the table, how it can influence your entire build strategy, and what makes Orion’s roof racks a standout choice in the market.
The Foundation of a Successful DIY Van Build: Planning and Prioritization
Before diving into specific components, it’s important to understand the critical role of planning and prioritization in a DIY van build. With limited space and weight capacity, every decision counts. While it might be tempting to jump straight into installing cabinetry, electrical, or choosing upholstery, starting with the larger foundational elements—like your roof rack—can simplify the entire build process.
The roof of your van is a valuable asset that can serve multiple purposes if utilized correctly. Choosing the right roof rack early on allows you to establish a solid foundation for mounting additional features, like solar panels and roof vents, and provides additional storage space, which is essential for maximizing the utility of your van.
Why a Roof Rack is an Essential Upgrade for Any DIY Van Build
The benefits of adding a roof rack to your DIY van build are multifaceted. Here’s why an Orion roof rack should be at the top of your priority list:
1. Maximizes Usable Space
One of the most significant constraints of a van build is the limited square footage inside the vehicle. Installing a roof rack allows you to move items like storage boxes, outdoor gear, and starlink to the roof, freeing up valuable space inside the van for living and working areas.
A roof rack transforms your van’s roof into a multi-purpose platform that can accommodate a wide variety of items. This flexibility means you can dedicate your van’s interior to more essential functions like seating, sleeping, or kitchen areas, while still having ample storage for your belongings.
2. Supports Essential Accessories
Every feature you add needs to be carefully considered in a DIY van build. Roof racks serve as the mounting base for critical accessories like solar panels, which provide power for your appliances and electronics, and fans or AC's, which keep your living space ventilated and comfortable.
Orion’s roof racks are designed to accommodate these accessories seamlessly. Their modular design allows for easy installation and adjustment, meaning you can position your solar panels and fans exactly where you need them without hassle. This integration simplifies the installation process and ensures that you get the most out of every component you add to your build. Check out the Cad-verified layouts page to get a custom layout for your van!
3. Enhances Safety and Organization
Safety should always be a top priority when building a DIY van. A cluttered or poorly organized van can lead to shifting items, which can be dangerous while driving. A roof rack helps alleviate this issue by providing a dedicated storage solution for bulky items like bikes, kayaks, or ladders, keeping them securely fastened and out of the way.
By adding a roof rack early in your build, you establish a more organized framework for the entire project. This not only makes it easier to plan your interior layout but also ensures that items are stored safely and efficiently, reducing the risk of damage or accidents on the road.
4. Improves Vehicle Versatility
One of the most exciting aspects of DIY van builds is the ability to customize your van for different types of travel and activities. Whether you’re heading off-grid for a remote adventure or using your van for city-based projects, a roof rack increases your vehicle’s versatility.
Orion’s roof racks are designed to be adaptable and scalable. This means you can start with a basic setup and expand it over time as your needs evolve. For example, you might begin with a simple storage configuration and later add a roof deck or lighting setup. This adaptability makes Orion’s roof racks a smart long-term investment for any van build.
5. Simplifies Future Modifications
Choosing a roof rack as your first purchase also simplifies future modifications and upgrades. Since many essential components—like roof vents, antennas, and awnings—are installed through the roof, starting with a roof rack provides a clear framework for these additions. It helps you visualize the layout of your roof space early on, making it easier to integrate other features down the line.
Orion’s modular roof racks are designed with future modifications in mind. They feature adjustable crossbars and multiple mounting points, allowing you to reconfigure your roof setup as needed. This makes it easy to adapt your van to different lifestyles or new equipment without requiring a complete redesign.
What Makes Orion Roof Racks the Best Choice for DIY Van Builders?
With so many roof rack options on the market, it’s important to choose a brand that aligns with the needs and challenges of DIY van builders. Orion’s roof racks stand out for several reasons:
1. Precision Engineering and Custom Fit
Orion’s roof racks are engineered with precision, ensuring a perfect fit for popular van models like the Ford Transit, Mercedes Sprinter, and Ram ProMaster. This custom fit means you don’t have to worry about compatibility issues or complicated installations. Each rack is designed to match the exact dimensions and contours of your van’s roof, resulting in a seamless integration.
2. Durability and Weather Resistance
Built to withstand the toughest conditions, Orion’s roof racks are constructed from high-strength aluminum and feature a durable UV rated powder coating. This durability ensures that your roof rack remains functional and looking great, even after years of exposure to the elements. This is especially important for van lifers who frequently travel through diverse environments, from sunny coastlines to snowy mountains.
3. Easy Installation and Adjustment
Orion understands that many DIY van builders prefer to handle installations themselves. That’s why their roof racks are designed for easy, no-drill installation. They utilize existing mounting points on your van’s roof, making the process straightforward and accessible even for those with limited mechanical experience.
The modular design also allows for easy adjustments. Repositioning crossbars or adding new accessories is simple and doesn’t require special tools or extensive modifications.
4. Versatility and Modularity
Orion’s roof racks are highly versatile, accommodating a wide range of accessories and configurations. This means you can customize your roof setup based on your unique needs and preferences. Whether you’re installing a single solar panel or building a complex storage system, Orion’s racks provide the flexibility you need to create a layout that works for you.
How to Get Started with Your Orion Roof Rack
Getting started with an Orion roof rack is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth installation and maximize the benefits of your new rack:
- Choose the Right Rack for Your Van Model: Orion offers racks for popular van models, so make sure to select one that’s compatible with your specific vehicle. If you’re unsure, Orion’s team can help guide you through the options and recommend the best fit.
- Plan Your Roof Layout: Before installing your roof rack, consider the accessories you’ll want to add, such as solar panels or roof vents. Planning your layout early will help ensure that everything fits perfectly and functions as intended.
- Follow Installation Instructions: Orion provides detailed installation instructions with each roof rack. Be sure to follow these guidelines carefully, and don’t hesitate to reach out to Orion’s customer support if you have any questions during the installation process.
- Add Accessories and Fine-Tune Your Setup: Once your roof rack is installed, start adding accessories and fine-tuning your layout. Take the time to adjust crossbars and mounts as needed to achieve the ideal configuration.
Start Your Van Build with Orion
Your DIY van build is an opportunity to create a vehicle that’s perfectly suited to your lifestyle and needs. By starting with an Orion roof rack, you set a solid foundation that will support your build’s success from day one. With increased storage capacity, enhanced versatility, and the ability to accommodate essential accessories, an Orion roof rack is an investment that will pay off throughout the lifespan of your van.
Ready to take your DIY van build to the next level? Start Your Van Build with Orion and experience the difference a purpose-built roof rack can make!
