Truck beds take a beating. Scratches, dents, rust – it’s a constant battle. A spray-on bed liner can offer serious protection, but professional applications can be expensive. Luckily, spray can bed liners offer a DIY alternative that’s budget-friendly and easy to apply. We’ve tested a bunch of these, and some definitely perform better than others. This guide highlights the top contenders to help you find the best spray can bed liner for your needs.
Here’s a quick look at our top picks:
- Rust-Oleum Truck Bed Coating: Overall best for durability.
- U-POL Raptor Bed Liner: Best for a professional-looking finish.
- Herculiner Brush-on Bed Liner Kit: Best for textured finish.
- Custom Coat Truck Bed Liner: Best for UV protection.
- SEM Products Rock-It Bed Liner: Best for ease of application.
Top 5 Best Spray Can Bed Liner Reviews
1. Rust-Oleum Truck Bed Coating
Rust-Oleum Truck Bed Coating is a heavy-duty, black protective coating designed to prevent rust and damage to your truck bed. It provides a textured, non-skid surface that’s resistant to scratches, chipping, and fading. This coating is known for its ease of application and excellent adhesion, making it a popular choice for DIYers.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent rust prevention.
- ✅ Durable and scratch-resistant.
- ✅ Easy to apply with good adhesion.
Cons:
- ❌ Texture can be a bit rough for some users.
- ❌ Requires thorough surface preparation.
- ❌ Can fade slightly over time in direct sunlight.
Verdict: This is a solid all-around choice for anyone looking for reliable protection against rust and scratches. It’s particularly good if you prioritize durability over a perfectly smooth finish.
2. U-POL Raptor Bed Liner
U-POL Raptor Bed Liner is a tough, durable 2K urethane coating that provides excellent protection against rust, corrosion, and extreme temperatures. It can be applied with a schutz gun or roller, offering versatility in application. Known for its professional-grade finish, Raptor is a popular choice for those seeking a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing bed liner.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides a very tough and durable finish.
- ✅ Excellent resistance to UV damage and fading.
- ✅ Can be tinted to match your truck’s color.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires a schutz gun or roller for application.
- ❌ More expensive than some other options.
- ❌ Requires mixing with a hardener.
Verdict: If you’re willing to invest a bit more time and money, U-POL Raptor delivers a professional-grade finish that’s incredibly durable and customizable. It’s the best choice for those who want a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing bed liner.
3. Herculiner Brush-on Bed Liner Kit
Herculiner Brush-on Bed Liner Kit is a polyurethane coating that creates a tough, textured, and skid-resistant surface. This kit is designed for easy application with brushes and rollers, making it accessible for DIYers. Herculiner is known for its aggressive texture and excellent adhesion, providing a durable and protective layer for your truck bed.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides a very aggressive, non-slip texture.
- ✅ Excellent adhesion to properly prepared surfaces.
- ✅ Can be applied with brushes and rollers.
Cons:
- ❌ Texture can be too rough for some users.
- ❌ Application can be messy and time-consuming.
- ❌ Strong odor during application.
Verdict: If you need a super grippy surface and don’t mind a more rugged look, Herculiner is a great option. Just be prepared for a bit of elbow grease during application and the strong smell.
4. Custom Coat Truck Bed Liner
Custom Coat Truck Bed Liner is a two-component, durable polyurethane coating designed to protect truck beds from impact, scratches, and corrosion. It offers excellent UV protection, preventing fading and discoloration over time. This liner is easy to apply with a spray gun or roller, providing a textured, non-slip surface that’s resistant to chemicals and solvents.
Pros:
- ✅ Superior UV protection to prevent fading.
- ✅ Resistant to chemicals and solvents.
- ✅ Durable and impact-resistant.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires mixing with a hardener.
- ❌ Can be more expensive than some other options.
- ❌ Requires proper ventilation during application.
Verdict: If you live in a sunny area and want to keep your bed liner looking new for years to come, Custom Coat is the way to go. The added UV protection is a worthwhile investment.
5. SEM Products Rock-It Bed Liner
SEM Products Rock-It Bed Liner is a single-component, ready-to-spray coating designed for easy and quick application. It provides a durable, textured finish that protects against scratches, rust, and weathering. Rock-It Bed Liner is known for its excellent adhesion and flexibility, making it a user-friendly option for DIYers.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to apply, single-component formula.
- ✅ Excellent adhesion and flexibility.
- ✅ Provides a durable, textured finish.
Cons:
- ❌ May not be as durable as two-component systems.
- ❌ Limited color options.
- ❌ Requires multiple coats for optimal protection.
Verdict: For a quick and easy DIY project, SEM Rock-It is a great choice. It’s perfect for smaller jobs or for those who want a hassle-free application process.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right spray can bed liner can be tricky. Here are a few factors to consider:
- Durability: How much abuse will your truck bed take? If you haul heavy loads or work in harsh conditions, you’ll need a more durable liner.
- Texture: Do you want a smooth or textured finish? A textured finish provides better grip, but it can also be harder to clean.
- Ease of Application: Are you comfortable with mixing and spraying, or do you prefer a simpler brush-on application?
- UV Resistance: If your truck spends a lot of time in the sun, choose a liner with good UV resistance to prevent fading.
- Cost: Bed liners range in price from budget-friendly to premium. Consider your budget and how much you’re willing to spend for added durability or features.
- Surface Preparation: Proper surface preparation is key for any bed liner. This usually involves cleaning, sanding, and priming the surface before applying the liner. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure good adhesion and a long-lasting finish.
Also, think about the tools you’ll need. Some liners require a spray gun, while others can be applied with a brush or roller. Make sure you have the necessary equipment before you start.
FAQs
Q: How long does a spray can bed liner last?
A: It depends on the quality of the liner and how much abuse it takes, but most spray can bed liners will last for several years with proper application and maintenance.
Q: Can I apply a spray can bed liner over rust?
A: No. You need to remove any rust and properly prepare the surface before applying a bed liner. Applying it over rust will only trap the rust and cause it to spread.
Q: How many coats of bed liner do I need?
A: Most manufacturers recommend at least two coats for optimal protection. Follow the instructions on the product label.
Q: Is a spray can bed liner as good as a professional spray-in liner?
A: While not quite as durable, a spray can bed liner can provide excellent protection at a fraction of the cost. Professional liners are generally thicker and more resistant to damage, but a DIY spray can liner is a great option for many truck owners.
Q: What safety precautions should I take when applying a spray can bed liner?
A: Always wear gloves, eye protection, and a respirator when applying a bed liner. Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
Conclusion
Choosing the best spray can bed liner depends on your specific needs and budget. Whether you prioritize durability, ease of application, or a professional-looking finish, there’s a product on this list that’s right for you. Remember to take your time with surface preparation and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results. With a little effort, you can protect your truck bed from damage and keep it looking great for years to come.
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
