Drop-In Vs. Spray-On: Which Bed Liner is Really the Best?
November 13, 2024
If you’re like most truck owners, you want to keep your vehicle looking and feeling like new for as long as possible. Consequently, you really need to know if a drop-in or spray-on bed liner will work best for you.
It doesn’t matter why you use your truck. It could be just a simple means of transportation. On the other hand, you may consider your vehicle an integral part of your construction or heavy labor business. Surprisingly, one study shows that the majority of pickups are used as “spare vehicles.”
Without question, there’s no reason why your truck bed should look scraped, dinged and dented. Even if you only use your pickup on occasion, your truck still deserves protection.
One of the best ways to keep your vehicle looking like new well after the 100,000th mile is to install a bed liner to protect the body. There are essentially two types of bed liners: spray-in and drop-in. Before making the decision about which bed liner is right for you, here are a few things to consider.
Your truck is your reliable partner in all your adventures, helping you haul, tow, and conquer rough terrains. To keep your trusty companion in top-notch shape, investing in a quality bedliner is recommended. When it comes to truck bed protection, two heavyweights face-off: spray-in bedliners and drop-in bedliners. Let's dive into the details of each to help you make an informed decision and ensure your truck is ready for whatever you throw at it.
Drop-In Bed liner Pros and Cons
Drop-in bed liners could seem like an economical solution to those seeking to protect their truck beds. On first appearance, you might like that there is little to no prep work. You might also think you’ve found a means to conceal past damage. In some cases, drop-in liners can be custom fit for specific trucks and can often be installed by the owner.
The Armor on a Budget
On the other side of the ring, we have drop-in bed liners, a more traditional and budget-friendly option. These liners are typically made of materials like plastic or rubber and are designed to be placed directly into the bed of your truck.
Advantages:
Cost-Effective: One of the most significant advantages of drop-in bed liners is their affordability. If you're looking for effective bed protection without breaking the bank, a drop-in liner might be the right choice for you.
Ease of Installation: Installing a drop-in bedliner is a breeze. They're usually pre-formed to match the shape of your truck bed, making the installation process simple and quick.
Replaceable: If your drop-in liner gets damaged, replacing it is relatively easy and cost-effective. This makes it a practical option for those who frequently subject their truck beds to heavy wear and tear.
Anti-Skid Surface: Many drop-in liners come with an anti-skid surface, providing additional safety when loading and unloading cargo.
Variety of Materials: Drop-in bedliners are available in various materials, allowing you to choose the level of protection and durability that suits your specific needs.
However, there are many issues associated with drop-in bed liners. For example, some models don’t provide adequate protection and can vibrate and become loose relatively quickly. Drop-in models can create a noise problem at high speeds because of factors like wind and vibration. They can also trap water between the liner and the bed, potentially leading to rust and corrosion.
Spray-In Bed Liner Pros and Cons
Spray on bed liners are ideal for beachgoers, adventurers and those who are worried about serious internal damage to the paint and steel of their truck bed. They are extremely durable and resistant to corrosion and typically last much longer than the drop-in liners. Spray-in liners provide automatic customized protection for each truck and are commonly used in the heavy-equipment industry and the military.
The Seamless Shield
Spray-in bed liners, also known as spray-on or bed liner coatings, have gained popularity for their seamless protection. Picture a customized, rugged shield that molds itself perfectly to the contours of your truck bed. This protective layer is typically made of polyurethane or polyurea, offering robust resistance against scratches, dents, and chemical spills.
Products such as Marvel Coating’s Armadillo Liners create a hard shell that also wards off water. You can even increase the resale value of your vehicle by combatting dings and dents that would otherwise appear. Also, the fact that spray-on liners help fight water means less corrosion.
It’s important to realize, however, that the quality of your spray-in liner application depends entirely on your installer, which is why it’s critical that you rely on a trusted company. Keep in mind that you need a great product with knowledgeable application to get it right.
Advantages:
Custom Fit: The key advantage of spray-in bed liners is their ability to provide a tailored fit. The application process involves spraying the liquid coating onto the bed, creating a snug fit that adheres to every nook and cranny.
Durability: Spray-in liners are known for their durability. The chemical composition creates a tough, long-lasting barrier that can withstand the toughest conditions, from heavy cargo loads to extreme weather.
Aesthetics: Beyond functionality, spray-in bed liners often enhance the visual appeal of your truck. The seamless finish gives a polished, professional look that complements the overall aesthetics of your vehicle.
Preservation of Cargo Space: Since spray-in liners adhere directly to the bed, there's no added bulk. This preserves your truck's cargo space, making it an excellent choice for those who need every inch of room for their hauling needs.
Prevents Rust and Corrosion: By forming a watertight seal, spray-in liners protect against rust and corrosion caused by water, preventing these issues from creeping into the bed and compromising its integrity.
Choosing the Right Armor for Your Truck:
Making the decision between a spray-in and drop-in bedliner ultimately depends on your priorities, budget, and how you use your truck.
If you prioritize durability, a seamless fit, and a sleek look, a spray-in bedliner might be the ideal choice for you.
If cost is a significant factor, and you value the ease of replacement and installation, a drop-in bedliner could be the practical solution.
Consider your usage: If you frequently transport heavy or abrasive loads, a spray-in liner's superior durability may be more advantageous. For lighter use and budget-conscious consumers, a drop-in liner could be the sweet spot.
In the showdown between spray-in and drop-in bedliners, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Each option comes with its set of advantages, and the right choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you're gearing up for off-road adventures, heavy-duty hauling, or everyday tasks, investing in the right bedliner ensures your truck remains a reliable and stylish companion for years to come. So, weigh your options, consider your priorities, and give your truck the armor it deserves!