Drop-in liners often tout price-savings, but in the end can cost more in repairs to the truck. And, given the overall cost of the truck and maintenance, a few dollars more for a reliable, permanent liner is worth it.
Of course, quality depends on the installer and that’s why ArmorThane dealers go through a rigorous training process for both prepping, coating and curing the bed liners. Other brands may not have that regimen.
When you take your truck for a quote, make certain to ask the right questions, especially about the preparation step in removing the paint and fixing any existing scratches, dents or rust. Make sure they plan to remove all of the parts such as tailgate and rails and keep holes from being permanently covered.
How thick will the coating be? ArmorThane specifies spraying of 125-250 mils or 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch. Other applicators may not spray thick enough. Adequate coating ensures against scratching or chipping, even under heavy usage. Drop-in liners hype their protective ability but spray-in liners are equally effective if sprayed correctly.
With spray-on bed liners, the same material can be used to protect and repair bumper, fenders, undercarriages, and floors. All matching, all ultra protected. You can’t do that with drop-ins.
Drop-in liners are typically black. ArmorThane’s ColorCoat system matches any auto maker color, even metallics. With ArmorThane, you can get an aliphatic material with UV prevention. The last thing you want is to have a permanent surface that’s fading.
If your drop-in liner causes damage, where are you going for repairs? ArmorThane gives their products a lifetime warranty; ask your installer for specifics. Even if you have an accident, a dealer can usually fix it.
Whether you are protecting a new truck from day one or bringing an old one back to life, choose an ArmorThane bed liner. Spray-on bed liners may cost a few dollars more but the result is priceless.
Check out this video of what it takes to spray on an ArmorThane bed liner.
Here’s how one customer turned to ArmorThane for repairs and restoration of cladding problems on a Chevy Avalanche.
