Truck Beds: Spray It to Save It

I approached my product selection with my own trucks in mind. I wouldn't want to recommend something that I wouldn't be willing to use on my own truck. The people behind The Drive are car enthusiasts committed to creating content for others who are also passionate about automobiles. With that in mind, I stuck with reputable brands with a history of consistent research, development, and manufacturing. I focused on user-friendly spray-in options suitable for first-timers and those who have done their fair share of DIY vehicle projects. 

When comparing formulas, I considered the entire process, because performance is so dependent on application. I looked at the prep work required, the application process, coverage, and finished product durability. Finally, I considered the potential for error and how that would negatively impact your final result. After all, a DIY option is useless if it is impossible to get a quality finish that will reliably perform.

My top pick for the best spray-in bed liner is the U-POL Raptor 2K Bedliner Aerosol because it is an easy all-in-one aerosol can. In addition, the pre-measured formula makes it foolproof, while the self-contained can means you don't need any additional equipment. 

For a more affordable option, I like the Duplicolor BAA2010 Bed Armor because it comes formulated with DuPont Kevlar for additional durability and impact resistance. 

What to Consider When Buying Spray-in Bed Liner

When choosing a spray-in bed liner, you need to consider the amount and type of use you'll give your truck bed. The heavier and more aggressive the use, the more durable the coating you need to apply. If you only plan to occasionally use your truck bed for hauling, then a DIY spray-in bed liner will be sufficient. You'll need to buy enough of your chosen liner formula in your desired color. To ensure your coating lasts, look for one with durability qualities. 

When purchasing a particular product, look at the coverage area promised by the manufacturer. A more affordable product may be more expensive once you calculate the coverage area. Some kits will come with everything you need for a single application, while others will require you to purchase multiple individual cans. If you are a beginner, expect to use more product, so give yourself a margin of error to ensure you don't run out. Conversely, you probably won't need to do a reapplication in the near future, so don't waste money buying a large quantity that's significantly more than what you'll need. When determining how much you need, consider whether you plan to apply one, two, or three coats. 

While a range of colors is available, the safest bet is to stick with black. The liner will eventually fade with UV exposure, no matter what color you choose. Even if it has UV-resistant additives, it will eventually fade. Also, if you try to color match your truck, the liner will fade at a different rate from your truck paint, which will result in a mismatched look. Opting for black instead is a safer bet because it will fade to a dark charcoal and then eventually light gray. This will complement your truck better and keep it looking nicer. Clear is also an option, but this can also be tricky. Some clear coats will yellow with UV exposure. 

Don't cheap out and go with the lowest cost option. You'll miss out on valuable additives that will increase the durability of your bed liner and extend its useful life. This defeats the purpose of investing in a bed liner in the first place. The formula should be resistant to harsh weather, water, UV rays, scratches, chemicals, and abrasion. It also needs a curing quality that adheres the liner to your truck bed. This will help prevent chipping and peeling. Finally, be careful when reading reviews; the application process plays a direct role in the durability and performance of a liner. The DIY application means not everyone will get it right, and those that drop the ball during the prep stages will blame the liner, not themselves. 

While you can buy a single can of liner spray for less than $50, do not expect that one can will be enough to cover your entire truck bed. The average cost for most truck owners is between $100 and $200 for a complete kit or several aerosol cans of spray-in bed liner formula. The amount you will spend will depend on the size of your truck bed, number of application layers, and the formula you buy. Higher quality formulas typically have more additives and cost more. Therefore, they tend to cost more but are worth the investment for the additional benefits and performance. 

You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.