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What are the disadvantages of spray in bed liner?

A spray-in bed liner can protect a truck bed but comes with notable downsides. The main drawbacks include cost, installation requirements, repair complexity, and ongoing maintenance considerations that can affect total ownership experience.

Spray-in liners use two-part coatings (typically polyurethane or polyurea blends) that cure into a seamless, durable surface. While they shield the bed from dents and scratches and deter corrosion, they demand professional prep, proper environmental conditions, and ongoing care. This article breaks down the most common disadvantages to help readers weigh their options.

Cost and value

Before listing the financial implications, it’s important to understand how price and value factor into the decision. The following points highlight the main cost-related drawbacks.

Higher upfront cost than many alternatives, such as drop-in liners or DIY kits.

Price can vary widely based on bed length, coating type, color, texture, and local labor rates.

Repair or recoat can be expensive if the coating is damaged or experiences wear, sometimes necessitating a full or partial reapplication.

Resale value may be affected by preconceived preferences of buyers who favor cheaper or removable options.

Costs can increase if aftermarket accessories or special finishes require additional prep or multiple layers.

In short, while spray-in liners offer lasting protection, the price tag and potential follow-up costs warrant careful consideration relative to other protection options.

Installation, prep, and durability concerns

Next, readers should consider what goes into applying and maintaining a spray-in liner. These factors often determine longevity and performance.

Proper surface preparation is essential; rust removal, cleaning, and a dry, dust-free environment are required for good adhesion.

Adhesion problems can occur if prep is rushed or conditions are mismanaged, leading to peeling or lifting at edges and joints.

Application requires skilled technicians and controlled conditions; weather, humidity, or temperature extremes can affect cure quality.

Careful curing time is needed before loading the bed; rushing the process can compromise durability.

Moisture entrapment or trapped contaminants under the coating can cause bubbling or corrosion if not addressed during prep.

Removal or modification later (such as swapping beds or changing accessories) is more disruptive than with some other liner types and may require professional work.

These installation and durability considerations emphasize that the performance of a spray-in liner hinges on qualified application and proper aftercare.

UV exposure, finish, and ongoing maintenance

Part of the durability discussion centers on how the surface ages and what maintenance it requires to keep looking and performing well.

Usability, texture, and maintenance implications

Beyond installation, everyday use, cleaning, and texture can influence user satisfaction with a spray-in liner.

Surface texture affects traction; some textures are grippy enough to prevent cargo sliding, while others can become slick when wet.

UV exposure can cause fading or yellowing in some coatings if a UV-resistant topcoat isn't specified or maintained.

Staining and chemical compatibility vary by coating; certain fuels, solvents, or cleaners may degrade or discolor the surface over time.

Cleaning typically requires specialized cleaners or mild detergents; aggressive solvents can shorten the coating’s life if used improperly.

Added weight is modest but real; the liner adds mass to the bed, which can slightly affect payload handling and fuel efficiency.

Overall usability depends on the coating formulation, topcoat protection, and how well the liner is maintained against wear and chemical exposure.

Alternatives and trade-offs

For readers who weigh downsides against benefits, several alternatives offer different balances of cost, protection, and maintenance.

Drop-in bed liners: Typically cheaper and easier to install or replace, but they can trap moisture, deform at the edges, and offer less protection against impact and corrosion in exposed areas.

Bed mats or rubber mats: Provide removable protection with lower cost and easier cleaning, but may not protect corners and rails as effectively.

Painted or coated metal finishes: Custom coatings can be tailored, but may wear faster in high-traffic areas and often require reapplication over time.

Rail and tailgate protection strips: Targeted protection for edges and high-wriction zones without a full-bed coating.

Choosing an alternative depends on budget, desired durability, ease of maintenance, and how long you plan to keep the vehicle.

Summary

Spray-in bed liners deliver strong protection and a clean, integrated look, but they come with higher upfront costs, reliance on professional installation, potential repair challenges, and ongoing maintenance considerations. Prospective buyers should weigh these trade-offs against alternatives like drop-in liners, mats, or partial coatings, factoring in climate, usage, and long-term ownership plans. The right choice depends on balancing protection, cost, and convenience for your specific needs.

What are the problems with spray on bedliners?

Problems with spray-on bedliners include health concerns from toxic fumes during application, discoloration from UV exposure, and damage from improper installation or sharp objects. Other issues include the permanent nature of the application, which can make future repairs difficult, and a lack of protection against dents and dings.

This video explains the pros and cons of spray-on bedliners: 53sTFLnowYouTube · Apr 27, 2020
Health and safety concerns

Toxic fumes: During installation, the polyurethane components can release toxic fumes like methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), which can cause respiratory issues and other health problems.
Skin and eye irritation: Direct contact with the chemicals can lead to skin and eye irritation.
Health risks: Polyurethane has been linked to increased rates of cancerous lung tumors, and it is important to take proper precautions during application to avoid excessive exposure.
Need for protection: Proper personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, goggles, and a mask, is crucial during application.

Installation and application issues

Improper preparation: Without proper preparation like sanding and cleaning, the liner will not adhere correctly and may peel or bubble.
Uneven application: DIY applications can result in thin spots or an uneven finish, which reduces protection and can lead to damage.
Environmental factors: Incorrect temperature or humidity during installation can negatively affect adhesion and curing.
Difficulty removing: Once applied, spray-on bedliners are extremely difficult to remove, and the process can damage the truck bed.
Warranty voiding: Professional installation can void the vehicle's corrosion warranty on the parts that are coated.

Durability and performance issues

Discoloration and fading: Over time, the liner can fade or lose its luster due to sun exposure.
Damage from sharp objects: While durable, the liner can still be scratched or chipped by sharp objects, and repeated impact can cause damage.
No dent protection: The liner is not designed to prevent dents and dings that can occur when loading or unloading cargo.
Corrosion risk: If the bedliner is damaged, moisture and debris can get underneath and cause the underlying metal to rust, particularly if the rust was not completely removed before application.

This video discusses how to protect your truck bed and avoid problems with spray-on bedliners: 57sTools In ActionYouTube · Jul 20, 2022
Maintenance and cost

Regular cleaning is required: While durable, the liner still needs regular cleaning to prevent dirt and debris buildup.
Additional products may be needed: For heavy use, a bed mat may be needed to help distribute weight, and a UV protectant spray can prevent fading.
Professional installation is expensive: Professional application can be costly, and DIY kits can be complicated.

Is it worth it to get a spray in bedliner?

Yes, spray-in bed liners are worth it for their durability, permanent protection, and aesthetic appeal. They offer long-lasting defense against impacts, scratches, and corrosion by bonding directly to the truck bed, preventing gaps where water and debris can get trapped. While more expensive upfront, they are a "set it and forget it" solution that can increase a vehicle's resale value compared to cheaper, less protective alternatives.

Benefits of spray-in bed liners

Superior protection: They create a seamless, waterproof, and impact-resistant barrier that protects the bed from scratches, dents, and chemical spills. This bond also prevents rust and corrosion by sealing out moisture.
Permanent and durable: Unlike drop-in liners, spray-in liners won't crack, shift, or come loose. They are built to last for years and often outlast the truck's own lifespan.
Aesthetically pleasing: They provide a clean, seamless finish that molds to the truck bed's contours, creating a more professional and appealing look.
Increased value: By preventing wear and tear, a spray-in bed liner can help your truck maintain its value over time.
Versatility: They are a one-and-done solution that eliminates the risk of trapped debris or water under a separate liner, which is a common issue with drop-in liners.

Potential drawbacks to consider

Higher upfront cost: A professional spray-in liner is more expensive than a drop-in liner or rubber mat, with quality jobs costing $300 or more.
Professional installation is crucial: A poor installation can lead to issues like bubbling or cracking. It's essential to have a skilled professional do the job.
Preparation is key: The surface must be properly prepped (sanded) for the liner to adhere correctly. If prep work is done poorly, the liner's performance will be compromised.

Is it better to spray or drop-in bedliners?

Spray-in bedliners are permanently bonded to the truck bed for maximum durability and a seamless, waterproof seal, while drop-in liners are cheaper and removable but can trap moisture, lead to dents, and may warp or crack over time. Choosing between the two depends on budget and use: opt for a spray-in for long-term heavy-duty protection, or a drop-in for a lower cost and temporary option.

This video compares spray-in and drop-in bedliners: 56sDS TRUCKSYouTube · Jun 23, 2021

Feature	Spray-in Bedliner	Drop-in Bedliner
Durability	High, with a chemical bond that prevents warping and cracks.	Lower; susceptible to dents, scratches, and warping, especially in heat.
Installation	Permanently sprayed onto the bed, often by professionals.	Sits in the bed; can be a DIY project or professionally installed.
Moisture Protection	Excellent; forms a watertight seal that prevents rust.	Poor; can trap moisture and debris underneath, leading to rust.
Fit and Grip	Custom fit that fills all nooks and crannies.	Can be a loose fit; smooth surfaces may cause cargo to slide.
Cost	Higher upfront cost.	Lower upfront cost.
Repair	If the liner is damaged, the underlying bed is likely also damaged.	Can be replaced or removed for cleaning, which allows you to check for damage underneath.

What is the average cost for a spray in bedliner?

between $400 and $900
On average, a professionally installed spray-in bed liner will run between $400 and $900. The price varies based on the size of your truck bed (short bed vs. long bed), the brand of liner (such as Line-X or Rhino Linings), and the quality of the application.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.