Truck Beds: Spray It to Save It

Add some extra protection to your truck bed with these killer spray-on bedliners

byAndra DelMonico|
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BYAndra DelMonico/ LAST UPDATED ON May 9, 2022

A pickup truck bed is one of the most versatile things you'll find on a vehicle. Capable of hauling a variety of things from tools, equipment, dirt, debris, and weekend adventure toys, it is hard to overestimate the versatility a pickup truck bed offers truck owners. With that said, it is also easy to damage the bed over time. From basic scratches to irreparable dents and holes, protecting the bed can be a worthwhile investment for any owner wanting to preserve the value and usability of their vehicle. This is where protective options like spray-on bed liners come in. If you are searching for a way to protect your truck bed, read on for our helpful guide for some of the best bed liners to do just that.


My pride and joy is my truck called LART (Little A** Red Truck); he's a 2007 Toyota Tacoma XRunner in red. I would NEVER use him as a work truck or to haul things; he’s a show pony, not a workhorse. He's even outfitted with a plush bed rug. We have a different, more rugged truck designed for carrying horse gear, boating supplies, landscaping equipment, and home improvement tools. That truck’s bed experiences heavy use as we haul a wide range of things. So, we added a rugged spray-on bed liner to protect it and keep the truck looking nice, despite the use and abuse we put it through.


While you could pay hundreds of dollars for a professional spray-on liner, you probably don't need it. These DIY versions are ideal for someone looking to haul the occasional furniture or tools during a weekend project.

Best Overall
U-POL Raptor 2K Bed liner Aerosol

U-POL Raptor 2K Bed liner Aerosol

Summary
This all-in-one can eliminates the possibility of user error and the need for additional equipment.
Pros
  • Two finish options 
  • Self-contained system
Cons
  • Total dry time 5-7 days 
  • One-time use
Best Value

Duplicolor BAA2010 Bed Armor

Summary
This water-based polyurethane formula is simple to use and comes in various colors.
Pros
  • Formulated with DuPont Kevlar
  • Impact-resistant finish
Cons
  • Product builds up on nozzle 
  • Shows wear and tear
Honorable Mention

Rust-Oleum 340455-6PK Truck Bed Turbo

Summary
Cover large projects quicker with the wide spray nozzle, and large can size.
Pros
  • Four times faster coverage
  • One-hour dry time for touch
Cons
  • Humidity prevents drying 
  • Application learning curve

Our Methodology

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.

Best Spray in Bed Liner Reviews & Recommendations

Specs

  • Process: Mix-in aerosol
  • Color: Black
  • Coverage: About 14.5 square feet

Pros

  • Textured “gun” finish
  • Two finish options
  • Self-contained system
  • Three-year shelf life

Cons

  • Total dry time five to seven days
  • One time use

My top pick is this all-in-one solution from U-POL because it gives you the convenience of aerosol with the quality of a mix-in solution. You'll release the premeasured activator and shake it to combine in a single can, eliminating the risk of mismeasuring. Depending on your desired finish, flat or coarse rippled, there are two application methods. Several color options include black, basalt gray, white, flame red, olive green, sepia brown, and blue. You don't need any additional equipment, though you will need to purchase more than one can to complete your project. Once dry, your liner will be abrasion, rust, corrosion, UV, and water-resistant. This formula is also safe for use on the biggest range of surfaces, including OEM paint, aluminum, bare metal, galvanized metal, rigid plastic, fiberglass, e-coat, wood, and polyester fillers. The biggest problem with this liner formula is that it takes forever to cure and dry. You have to wait up to five to seven days for it to be ready for use. The can is also a single-use setup, so if you don't use it all, you can't save it for another project in the future.

Specs

  • Process: Pre-mixed aerosol
  • Color: Black
  • Coverage: 6-8 square feet per can

Pros

  • Formulated with DuPont Kevlar
  • Water-based polyurethane
  • Impact-resistant finish
  • One hour handling time

Cons

  • Product builds up on the nozzle
  • Shows wear and tear

Give your truck bed a black satin finish with this spray-on truck bed liner. What makes this particular formula stand out is the inclusion of DuPont Kevlar, which aids in making the liner more durable. The formula is also a water-based polyurethane, making it easy to work with and clean up after use. Don't be fooled into thinking it's just a glorified paint, though. The cured liner is a rubberized coating that is impact-resistant. When properly applied, it won't peel, chip, or flake. You can safely use it on metal, aluminum, fiberglass, and wood. Several color options include satin black, dark olive, sandstorm, and midnight brown. Because it's a water-based formula, it also dries quickly, being safe to touch in an hour and safe to handle in three hours. The biggest issue I have had with this product is that the formula builds up on the nozzle while you're spraying it. You can address this with regular wiping, but this also results in wasted product.

Specs

  • Process: Pre-mixed aerosol
  • Color: Black
  • Coverage: 15 square feet per can

Pros

  • Non-skid finish
  • Four times faster coverage
  • One-hour dry time for touch

Cons

  • Humidity prevents drying
  • Application learning curve

This single can of spray-in bed liner is perfect for beginners looking for the simplest solution. There's no mixing or additional equipment needed. The formula is a paint and primer in one, reducing the amount of prep work required. What makes this can stand out is the oversized spray nozzle that lets you cover your truck bed four times faster than other aerosol cans. Once applied, you'll appreciate the quick drying time, with it being safe for touch in just an hour. The non-skid finish helps to keep items secure in your bed, while the abrasion and impact resistance helps the liner look new. One drawback of this can is that it only covers 15 square feet, so you'll need multiple cans to cover a single truck bed. Also, the finished coating is more like a paint coating, and it isn't ideal for someone looking to give their truck bed heavy use. This single can of spray-in bed liner is perfect for beginners looking for the simplest solution. There's no mixing or additional equipment needed. The formula is a paint and primer in one, reducing the amount of prep work required. What makes this can stand out is the oversized spray nozzle that lets you cover your truck bed four times faster than other aerosol cans. Once applied, you'll appreciate the quick drying time, with it being safe for touch in just an hour. The non-skid finish helps to keep items secure in your bed, while the abrasion and impact resistance helps the liner look new. One drawback of this can is that it only covers 15 square feet, so you'll need multiple cans to cover a single truck bed. Also, the finished coating is more like a paint coating, and it isn't ideal for someone looking to give their truck bed heavy use.

Specs

  • Process: Mix-in
  • Color: Black
  • Coverage: 125 square feet per gallon

Pros

  • Spray gun included
  • Two-component urethane system
  • Helps deaden sound and vibration

Cons

  • Large margin for error
  • 60-minute pot life

This liner kit is perfect for the DIYer as it comes with everything you would need to complete the project. Unlike pre-mixed formulas, the included ingredients and spray gun have a professional quality feel. The finished coating will look like a professional did it while also being incredibly durable. It's UV-, scratch-, stain-, and abrasion-resistant. While you'd expect these qualities, it stands out for also helping to dampen sound and vibration. A potentially big drawback of this kit is the high margin for error. Because you'll need to measure and mix the formula, you need to get it right, or it won't perform as expected. It also has a relatively short pot life of 60 minutes. Work too fast, and you could get sloppy with your application while working too slow, resulting in the formula curing in your spray gun.

Specs

  • Process: Pre-mixed liquid
  • Color: Black
  • Coverage: 100-120 square feet per gallon

Pros

  • OEM look and quality
  • Rubberized coating
  • Low odor
  • Easy soap and water clean up

Cons

  • You need your own spray gun
  • Handling dry time 24 hours

If you're the type of person that prefers to keep your truck as close to OEM standards as possible, then you'll want to consider this coating from POR-15. The truck bed coating is a water-based formula that dries to a rubberized coating that is safe for use on metal, aluminum, fiberglass, and wood. Once dry, it creates an attractive semi-gloss finish that looks like the manufacturer applied it. You'll also like that it's flexible, durable, impact-resistant, abrasion-resistant, and UV stable. Cleanup is easy with soap and water, and there's no limited pot life. With no pot life, you can reseal the can and use it again in the future. The drawback of this formula is that it comes in a can, so you'll need your own spray gun for application. It also has a ridiculously long drying time. You'll be waiting 3-4 hours between coats and 24 hours before it's dry enough to even touch.

Our Verdict on the Best Spray-in Bed Liner 

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. 

Spray-in Bed Liner Key Features

Quantity 

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. 

Color 

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. 

Durability 

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. 

Spray-in Bed Liner Pricing 

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. 

FAQs 

You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.

Q: What’s the difference between spray-on and roll-on bed liners?

A: Generally, roll-on bed liners are more affordable and easier to apply. However, roll-on liners take longer to cure, increasing the risk of imperfections. With a roll-on method, you're also more prone to missing spots and hard-to-reach places.

Q: Does a spray-in bed liner void your vehicle manufacturer warranty?

A: Any aftermarket modification or installation that damages your truck will void the manufacturer's warranty. The manufacturer’s warranty will not cover the spray in the bed liner. Damages caused by the aftermarket warranty are also not covered by the warranty.

Q: Can I install a bed liner myself?

A: Yes, you can install a spray-in bed liner yourself. While it may not last as long as a professional installation, it will provide your truck with plenty of protection and lasting durability if done correctly.

Why Trust Us

Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.

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