How We Fabricate Custom In Deck Toolboxes for Roofers & Haulers
Summary
How We Fabricate Custom In Deck Toolboxes for Roofers & Haulers
Generic and bolt on toolboxes are often inadequate for these environments. Working in urban locations or remote environments like the oilfield requires more reliable solutions.
The right truck toolboxes must stand up to constant vibrations and heavy usage while protecting equipment from inclement weather and reducing theft risk.
Core Fabrication’s unique production process allows us to build custom in deck toolboxes that solve those problems at the source. Read on to learn how we build toolboxes directly into truck decks for superior durability and secure long term storage.
Common Problems with Generic Toolboxes
We believe there is no such thing as a “one size fits all” truck toolbox. A roofing truck will have completely different storage needs from a wallboard or hot shot truck.
Mass market options such as bolt on and off the shelf toolboxes are not designed with this kind of specificity in mind. They are also not built to fit specific truck models. This can cause several problems:
- Boxes loosen due to poor fitment or generic fasteners.
- Lids warp when made from unspecific materials that aren’t purpose built for jobsites.
- Tools shift during transport when toolbox interiors aren’t designed to properly secure them.
- Water intrusion ruins expensive equipment. Moisture is one of the most common failure points in off the shelf and bolt on toolboxes.
Crews who use such toolboxes are constantly forced to adapt their workflows to their storage limitations. A high quality custom toolbox provides storage that supports the way you work.
Think of it as the difference between wearing an off the rack suit and a bespoke tailored one.
Our Custom Toolbox Fabrication Process
Understanding Your Use Case & Deck Requirements
Our custom fabrication process begins by taking detailed measurements of your truck deck. This ensures that your toolbox will be fabricated to fit properly instead of coming loose. We also take this opportunity to take an inventory of your tools and learn the specifics of your daily workflow.
This includes:
- The precise size and shape of your deck structure
- The tools your crew uses most often (and where you prefer them stored)
- Clearance requirements for ladders, rigging, tie downs and materials
- Access points you use most frequently
- Whether the setup is for a single vehicle or a fleet needing standardized configurations
Understanding your day to day challenges allows us to design toolboxes that eliminate inefficiencies instead of creating new ones.
Choose the Right Materials for Harsh Work Environments
The next step for our team is to select durable materials that perform reliably in your work environment. Your toolbox needs to be able to withstand impacts and constant vibrations without losing its structural integrity. It must also maintain its shape and strength despite regular (or even daily) exposure to inclement weather.
Whereas generic solutions prioritize cost cutting for mass production, we put build quality first. Depending on your needs, we may use:
- High grade steel for maximum structural strength
- Aluminum for weight sensitive builds or corrosion resistance
- High tensile strength latches, hinges and dual lockable handles
- Heavy duty hardware rated for continuous job site use
Our fabricators select every component for longevity. Toolboxes from Core Fabrication never include thin gauge shortcuts or low grade fasteners. We only use proven materials engineered to perform reliably under the most demanding working conditions.
Advanced Weatherproofing & Water Sealing to Protect Your Tools
Roofing is an outdoor job, so your truck will be exposed to the elements on a daily basis. A reliable truck toolbox must withstand wind and rain without coming loose or allowing water ingress. It must also resist warping or cracking when temperatures shift. This prevents your tools from corroding or being inundated with dust and debris from your environment.
Our weatherproofing and waterproofing standards include:
- Precision welding that eliminates gaps and weak seams
- Reinforced lids and doors designed and engineered to stop warping and movemen
- Industrial grade weather stripping for a tight and lasting seal
- Drainage considerations to avoid moisture buildup
- Corrosion resistant finishes to protect against the elements
This approach protects your tools by keeping them dry and ready for use.
Fully Integrated Custom Fabrication for Maximum Strength & Security
Unlike bolt on boxes, we fully integrate our toolboxes into your truck’s deck structure. This is one of the most valuable aspects of Core Fabrication’s custom process. It is also one of the major factors that sets our toolbox builds apart from those offered by most metal fabricators in Calgary.
Our unique integration process delivers the following benefits:
- Extreme rigidity under load and during transport
- Zero movement or vibration
- Seamless fitment that prevents water intrusion
- Reinforced welds that make the box nearly impossible to remove
- A clean and professional look that becomes part of the truck itself
Every box is fabricated and welded by our certified team. There is no outsourcing and no guesswork. This allows for unprecedented oversight and quality control on every project.
Custom Toolbox Configurations to Match Operational Needs
Generic toolboxes come with generic configurations that rarely match industry specific workflows. At Core Fabrication, we engineer tool boxes and cabinets to support your specific work applications and processes.
The following examples represent the sheer variety available in our custom toolbox configurations. Whether you are hauling materials across Canada or the US or roofing multi story buildings, we can design and create the right layout to keep your tool storage efficient and safe.
| Configuration | Description | Ideal For |
| Deep Drop Boxes |
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| Organized Shelving Systems |
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| Combo Drawer Systems |
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| Hybrid Multi Trade Configurations |
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Custom Toolbox Configurations to Match Operational Needs
The value of having a custom toolbox fabricated into your truck’s deck instead of buying an off the shelf option can be measured by how it performs in the real world. Here’s what makes a custom toolbox stronger and more secure for the demands of your work.
Strength & Durability
Popular truck toolbox materials like steel come in hundreds of different grades and thicknesses. This means two different products both made from steel can have extremely different strength levels. It also means they can have considerably different lifespans.
| Custom Toolboxes (Core Fabrication) | Generic Solutions |
| Fabricated using high grade steel or other premium materials | Often made from budget materials to cut costs |
| Fasteners and seals chosen for jobsite conditions | Lower quality fasteners and seals |
| Maintain shape and integrity throughout years of daily use | Less durable and more likely to deform under physical stressors |
Theft Resistance
| Custom Toolboxes (Core Fabrication) | Generic Solutions |
| Welded directly to the truck deck | Bolted on and easier to remove |
| Dual lockable handles and heavy duty hardware | Basic locks and lighter hardware |
| Discourages theft on active job sites | Higher risk of theft when left unattended |
Professionalism & Appearance
Efficient tool storage does more than streamline jobsite tasks by improving access to your equipment. It also showcases your professionalism by improving your truck’s appearance. This is particularly valuable for roofers and haulers whose vehicles represent the quality of their work.
Explore our project gallery to see examples of the toolboxes and truck decks we’ve built.
| Custom Toolboxes (Core Fabrication) | Generic Solutions |
| Clean and seamless integration with the deck | Awkward appearance that looks aftermarket |
| Reduces clutter and improves organization | Can create clutter due to inappropriate tool storage |
| Supports efficient work habits on site | Less efficient layout wastes time and impacts professionalism |
Proven Results From Real Customers Who Trust Core Fabrication
“They did a beautiful job, couldn’t be happier.”
Rose’s Company needed a high rail set up to accommodate specific tools. Our team worked closely with Rose and her company to build a clean, rugged and fully integrated storage solution directly into the truck’s deck.
“Great business to work with. They dealt with modifications on the fly and worked with me to make sure my requirements were met. They did a beautiful job, couldn’t be happier. Tell them what you need and let them do what they do best. You won’t be disappointed!” – Rose Gentles
“Immaculate work. We will continue to use Core Fab.”
Grizzly Energy Services owner Alisa needed a reliable, precisely built truck deck and storage system. Our team listened closely to the requirements and engineered a custom solution that exceeded her expectations.
“Excellent to work with – they did an immaculate job on our most recent truck we brought in. They also helped with a larger truck previous to this last one – they listened to our requests and worked with us to ensure we were satisfied with the final product. We will continue to use Core Fabrication for any of our future needs!”
“Finally found a shop that goes the extra mile.”
Michael had tried multiple fabrication shops before finding Core Fab, and the difference was staggering. His team needed strong, reliable van shelves that could handle daily use without bending, rattling, or wearing out permanently.
“Amazing job! Does all our fab work! Best van shelves we’ve had! Took us 3 different shops to finally find a place that goes the extra mile!”
“On time, on budget, and just top notch.”
Ashley’s company works with Core Fabrication for ongoing project needs. Every project we’ve taken on for her has been built with precision and delivered exactly when promised. Ashley highlighted both the team’s technical skill and their professionalism throughout the process.
“Our company is more than satisfied with the quality of fabrication we’ve had done with Core. Stuart is brilliant, professional, and kind to work with. Every single piece we’ve asked for has come to us on time, on budget, and just top notch. I couldn’t say enough praise for this company. I would recommend them a thousand times.”
Get the Box That Fits Your Work
Proper vehicle storage is essential for successful roofers and haulers. You and your fleet operators can’t afford to lose time searching for the right equipment on jobs with tight deadlines. You can’t afford to replace tools that wear out before the season is over. That means you need organized toolboxes you can count on for years in a range of challenging conditions.
Core Fabrication is your long term partner for custom truck decks, toolboxes, and heavy duty metal fabrication projects. Request a quote today for a solution designed for sustained performance in your demanding working environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between an in deck toolbox and a bolt on toolbox?
Bolt on toolboxes attach to the top or sides of a truck bed. An in deck toolbox is fabricated directly into your truck’s deck structure. The welding process involved to attach an in deck toolbox offers improved strength and stability.
What materials do you use to build custom toolboxes?
Are your toolboxes waterproof?
Yes. Water intrusion is one of the biggest problems with prefabricated boxes, so we prioritize sealing from the start. Our toolboxes keep your tools dry with:
- Precision welding
- Reinforced lids and doors
- Industrial grade weather stripping
- Corrosion resistant coatings
- Innovative drainage systems
Are custom truck toolboxes more expensive than prefabricated ones?
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