Does your truck bed look worn out and scratched? Maybe you haul lumber, bikes, or even your dog, and the bed takes a beating. You want to protect it, but professional spray-in liners can cost a lot of money. That’s where DIY spray-in truck bed liners come in! They offer a tough coating without breaking the bank.
But choosing the right DIY kit can feel overwhelming. There are so many brands and types, and you want to make sure you get a liner that lasts and looks good. You worry about making a mess or not getting a smooth finish. Don’t let those worries stop you!
This blog post is here to help. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know to pick the best DIY spray truck bed liner for your needs. You’ll learn how to choose the right product, what tools you’ll need, and simple steps to get a professional-looking result. Get ready to give your truck bed a tough new skin!
Our Top 5 Diy Spray Truck Bed Liner Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Diy Spray Truck Bed Liner Detailed Reviews
1. Herculiner Aerosol Spray Truck Bed Liner
Rating: 8.9/10
The Herculiner Aerosol Spray Truck Bed Liner is a handy spray can that gives your truck bed a tough, black, textured coating. It’s made to protect your truck bed from all sorts of damage, like scratches and rust. This 15-ounce can covers about 6 to 7 square feet, making it great for touching up existing bed liners or for smaller jobs.
What We Like:
- It keeps your truck bed safe from scratches, rust, and fading.
- You can use it for more than just the truck bed; it works on exterior trim, bumpers, and even wheel wells.
- It’s perfect for fixing up small spots on your bed liner or for those tricky edges.
- The textured finish looks good and helps prevent things from sliding around.
- It’s easy to use as a spray can for quick touch-ups.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 15-ounce can might not be enough for a full truck bed, so you might need multiple cans for larger jobs.
- For very large areas, a roller application might offer a thicker, more robust coating.
- The spray can method can sometimes lead to uneven application if not careful.
This Herculiner spray is a useful tool for keeping your truck looking its best. It offers reliable protection and versatility for various parts of your vehicle.
2. Dupli-Color BAA2030 Bed Armor DIY Truck Bed Liner – Sandstorm – 16.5 oz. Aerosol Can
Rating: 9.2/10
Protect your truck bed with Dupli-Color Bed Armor! This DIY truck bed coating spray paint is a tough, rubbery polyurethane that shields your truck bed from damage. It’s great for keeping your cargo from sliding around.
What We Like:
- It offers super strong truck bed protection.
- The rubber particles give a great texture that stops things from moving.
- This coating won’t chip, fade, or peel off.
- It works on many surfaces like metal, aluminum, fiberglass, and wood.
- Dupli-Color is a name you can trust for car care products.
- The Sandstorm color looks good and is easy to apply.
What Could Be Improved:
- The aerosol can is only 16.5 oz, which might not be enough for very large truck beds without buying multiple cans.
- While it includes tools for larger kits, this specific aerosol version doesn’t come with the roller, tray, or brush.
This Dupli-Color Bed Armor spray is a solid choice for truck owners wanting to add a protective layer. You get reliable, long-lasting defense for your truck bed.
3. Rust-Oleum 248914 Truck Bed Coating Spray
Rating: 9.3/10
Give your truck bed a tough new look and lasting protection with Rust-Oleum 248914 Truck Bed Coating Spray. This black, 15-ounce can is designed to make your truck bed, trailer floors, fenders, and other metal parts look great and stay protected from rust and damage. Its special formula stops rust before it starts, giving you peace of mind.
What We Like:
- Stops rust and corrosion for long-lasting protection.
- The any-angle spray tip makes it easy to reach every spot without tiring your fingers.
- Dries quickly, usually in just 1 hour, so you can get back to using your truck.
- Covers a good area, up to 20 square feet per can.
- Creates a durable, non-skid surface that resists scratches and bad weather.
- It molds to the shape of your truck bed for a perfect fit.
- Helps reduce road noise for a quieter ride.
- Protects against impacts, scratches, and fading from the sun.
- Works on bare metal or primed truck beds.
What Could Be Improved:
- While one can covers a good area, larger truck beds might need multiple cans, increasing the overall cost.
- The textured finish, while great for grip, might make cleaning off very sticky or messy substances a bit more challenging than a smooth surface.
This spray offers excellent protection and a rugged look for your vehicle’s metal surfaces. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to upgrade and safeguard their truck bed.
4. J-B Weld HERCULINER Truck Bed Liner
Rating: 8.6/10
The J-B Weld HERCULINER Truck Bed Liner in Black, 1 Quart is your go-to solution for protecting and enhancing various surfaces. This is the original DIY truck bed liner, and it makes the job super easy. You only need to follow three simple steps: prep your surface, apply the liner, and let it dry. It’s not just for truck beds; you can use it on trailers, boat decks, walkways, car floors, tire fenders, and so much more!
What We Like:
- It’s incredibly easy to use, even for beginners.
- The application process is straightforward: prep, apply, and dry.
- It creates a tough, textured finish that looks great.
- This liner prevents rust and won’t chip, flake, or peel.
- It works on many different surfaces like metal, wood, and even some plastics.
- The cure time is quick, with a functional cure in 10-12 hours and a full cure in 24 hours.
- It provides a dependable, skid-resistant coating.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 1-quart size might be limiting for very large projects, requiring multiple cans.
- While it cures quickly, the initial application might require some patience and good ventilation.
This J-B Weld HERCULINER is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a durable and protective coating. It’s a reliable way to upgrade and safeguard your gear.
5. Seymour 20-41 Truck Bed Coating
Rating: 8.6/10
Looking to give your truck bed a tough new shell? The Seymour 20-41 Truck Bed Coating in black is a fantastic option. This 15-ounce can, though its packaging might change, offers a robust solution for protecting your vehicle’s surfaces. It’s designed to be applied easily and dries quickly, forming a strong barrier against the everyday wear and tear your truck or trailer faces.
What We Like:
- It’s thick and super durable.
- It makes a tough, flexible protective layer.
- It keeps rust and scratches away.
- It can handle bumps and impacts.
- It gives you better grip, which is great for hauling.
- It stops water from causing damage.
- It sticks really well and dries fast.
- It can help your truck or trailer last much longer.
- You can use it on truck beds, trailers, and even car panels and wheel wells.
- It’s perfect for fixing up old, worn-out liners.
What Could Be Improved:
- The packaging can change, which might be a little confusing.
This Seymour coating offers serious protection and can really extend the life of your equipment. It’s a smart investment for anyone who wants to keep their vehicle looking good and performing well.
Your Truck Bed’s New Armor: A DIY Spray-On Liner Buying Guide
So, you want to protect your truck bed and make it look tough? A DIY spray-on truck bed liner is a great way to do it! It’s a tough coating that sticks to your truck bed. It stops scratches, dents, and rust. This guide will help you pick the best one for your truck and your DIY skills.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a DIY spray-on liner, keep these important features in mind:
- Durability: You want a liner that lasts. Look for products that promise to resist chipping, peeling, and fading. Good liners can handle heavy loads and rough weather.
- Ease of Application: Since you’re doing it yourself, how easy is it to spray? Some kits come with everything you need. Others might require more prep work. Read reviews to see what other DIYers say about application.
- Adhesion: The liner needs to stick really well to your truck bed. Good adhesion means it won’t come off easily. This is super important for long-lasting protection.
- Finish and Color Options: Most liners dry to a black, textured finish. This looks great and adds grip. Some brands offer different colors or even clear coats if you want something unique.
- UV Protection: Sunlight can fade and weaken some materials. A good liner will have UV protection to keep it looking good and strong for years.
2. Important Materials
DIY spray-on liners are usually made from tough stuff. The most common types are:
- Polyurethane: This is a very strong and flexible plastic. It’s great at resisting impacts and chemicals. It’s a popular choice for truck bed liners.
- Epoxy: This is another very strong material. It forms a hard, protective layer. Epoxy liners are good at resisting abrasion and chemicals.
- Rubberized Coatings: Some liners have rubber in them. This adds extra grip and can make the liner a bit softer, which is good for carrying fragile items.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a liner great or not so great?
- Good Quality Factors:
- Proper Surface Preparation: This is HUGE. You must clean and sand your truck bed perfectly. This helps the liner stick.
- Even Application: Spraying the liner evenly in multiple thin coats is key. This builds up strength and looks good.
- High-Quality Ingredients: Brands that use better materials will make a stronger, longer-lasting liner.
- Poor Quality Factors:
- Skipping Surface Prep: If you don’t clean and sand well, the liner might peel or bubble.
- Applying Too Thick or Too Thin: Applying it unevenly can lead to weak spots or a messy look.
- Cheap Ingredients: Some bargain liners use lower-quality materials that don’t last as long.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How do people use these liners, and what’s it like to apply them?
- User Experience: Most DIYers find applying a spray-on liner to be a rewarding project. It takes time and patience, especially with prep work. Good kits come with clear instructions. Watching videos online can also help a lot. The result is a tough, good-looking truck bed that’s ready for anything.
- Use Cases:
- Hauling Gear: Perfect for carrying tools, lumber, sports equipment, or anything else you throw in your truck.
- Protecting Against Weather: It shields your bed from rain, snow, and sun.
- Preventing Scratches and Dents: Keeps your truck bed looking new, even with daily use.
- Adding Traction: The textured surface stops things from sliding around.
- Customizing Your Truck: Gives your truck a rugged, finished look.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How long does a DIY spray-on truck bed liner typically last?
A: A well-applied, good-quality DIY spray-on liner can last for many years, often 5 to 10 years or even longer, with proper care and maintenance.
Q: Do I need any special tools to apply a DIY spray-on liner?
A: Most DIY kits include a spray gun and the liner material. You will likely need basic tools like sandpaper, cleaning supplies (degreaser, soap), masking tape, and possibly a vacuum or air compressor for cleaning.
Q: Is it difficult to prepare the truck bed for a spray-on liner?
A: Surface preparation is the most critical and time-consuming step. It involves thorough cleaning, degreasing, and sanding to create a surface the liner can adhere to. It requires patience but is manageable for most DIYers.
Q: Can I apply a spray-on liner over an existing drop-in liner?
A: Generally, no. Drop-in liners must be removed. The spray-on liner needs direct contact with the metal of your truck bed for proper adhesion and protection.
Q: How many coats of spray-on liner should I apply?
A: Most kits recommend applying multiple thin coats, usually two to four, to build up the desired thickness and ensure even coverage. Always follow the specific instructions for your chosen product.
Q: What is the drying time for a DIY spray-on liner?
A: Drying times vary by product and temperature. Some liners are dry to the touch in a few hours, but it can take 24-48 hours or even longer for them to fully cure and reach maximum hardness.
Q: Can I spray a DIY liner in cold weather?
A: It’s best to avoid applying in extreme cold or heat. Most products have recommended temperature ranges for application to ensure proper curing and adhesion. Check the product’s instructions.
Q: What if I make a mistake while spraying?
A: Minor drips or runs can sometimes be smoothed out before they dry completely. For larger mistakes, you might need to sand down the area and reapply. Practice on a piece of cardboard first!
Q: Will a spray-on liner make my truck bed slippery?
A: Most spray-on liners create a textured finish that actually adds grip, preventing items from sliding around. This is a major advantage over a bare metal or smooth plastic bed.
Q: Can I remove a DIY spray-on truck bed liner if I want to?
A: Removing a spray-on liner can be very difficult, as it adheres strongly to the truck bed. It usually involves sanding and grinding, which can damage the original paint of the truck bed if not done carefully.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.