Is it Worth Getting a Bed Liner?

After buying a truck, including a Ford F150 in Costa Mesa, most people want to ensure that it’s going to last a long time and be able to perform the jobs they need it to perform. More often than not, a person will buy a truck because they need it to help them haul things or pull a trailer. If they just needed to get people from one destination to another, they may have considered getting a Ford Flex in Costa Mesa instead.

Whether used for work or play, having the right equipment to get the job done is important. It may be a difficult decision when it comes to getting a bed liner installed in a truck. These can be incredibly costly, and not everyone may see the value. For those who may be undecided, below are some reasons to consider getting a bed liner in a truck.

They Protect Cargo 

Most bed liners create skid-proof surfaces when added to the truck, and this can be beneficial when it comes to sliding cargo across the surface. People haul a variety of different things for work and play, so ensuring that it will be protected and won’t get damaged when being put in the back of the truck is beneficial.

The Protect the Truck Bed

In addition to protecting cargo, a bed liner will protect the truck bed. This can reduce the amount of scratches, dings, dents, and tears that various cargo might inflict upon the bed of the truck. Some people are okay with having these marks in their truck. If that’s the case, then getting a bed liner might not be worth the expense.

However, in addition to protecting the bed from cargo, a bed liner will also protect it from the elements. If a person’s bed isn’t equipped with a topper, then the sun, wind, rain, and other conditions will find their way into the back. If there is damaged paint, dents, or dings, this could lead to the development of rust–and that will cause a lot of issues, including shortening the life of the truck.

In essence, having a bed liner is a truck will protect both the truck and the cargo that is placed into the back. It can help the vehicle stay on the road longer by reducing the chances of rust taking over the back. If a person decides they want to get a bed liner, the next thing they’ll have to do is decide what kind they want to get.

Different Types of Liners 

When it comes to getting a bed liner, most manufacturers offer two types: a spray-on liner or a drop-in liner. Both options come in a range of prices, and a person will have to decide on personal preference which one they want. In addition, they may also consider getting aftermarket liners or building their own. Both of these could save them some money, but there may be other issues associated with them.

Spray-on Liners

These types of liners are sprayed directly onto the vehicle. They are made of a substance that creates an airtight seal around the bed of the truck. This type of liner will prevent water, salt, sand, dirt, and other debris from contacting a person’s bed. This can be helpful in ensuring that damage doesn’t occur to the truck that could lead to the development of rust in addition to corrosion or abrasions.

This material is often incredibly strong and can withstand different weather conditions and having things dropped or scraped across it. More often than not, if applied correctly, it won’t wear off, but it may experience some scratches and dings.

If there’s a downside to a spray-on liner it’s that they are incredibly difficult to remove. They are permanent, but if a person is looking for a good way to protect their truck bed, then this is the route they want to take. It can be expensive, but it will pay off in the long run because it requires very little upkeep.

Drop-in Liners 

Drop-in liners are form-fitted plastic coverings that are shaped to fit exactly into the bed of a person’s truck and they are then bolted into place. Unlike a spray-on liner, drop-in liners don’t create an airtight seal. There may be gaps between the liner and the bed where water and/or other liquids and debris could get caught. If left to sit for too long, this could lead to corrosion and other damage, as well as the ability for rust to grow.

 Over time, the bolts might also come loose, which would allow the liner to shift and move, potentially even making sounds. This could lead to more debris and water getting caught underneath the material. Drop-in liners are often cheaper than spray-on liners, and they aren’t permanent. Therefore, if a person decides they no longer want their liner, it is easy to remove.

Other Liner Types

In addition to the liners listed above, a person has the option of getting other liners, including those made from rubber or even carpeting. These are often aftermarket materials that can be found from a variety of stores or online. A person also has the option of making their own, and they may decide to construct these from wood or other materials to protect the bed of their truck. 

When it comes to installing these liners into the bed, that can be accomplished in numerous ways. They can be bolted or glued down, or they can slide in and out and used only when the person needs them. They can be useful in protecting the bed from damage, and they can be much cheaper than the other two options. 

When it comes to deciding whether or not a person should get a bed liner, the decision will come down to personal preference. They can help the vehicle last longer, but they can also be expensive. A person will have to weigh their options and look at their budget before making a decision.

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