Spray vs Roll-on bed liner

[NC Tom]

I saw @Pete M used some spray bed liner for some fender flares, but has anyone painted their whole truck with it? And, is the spray stuff as good as the roll-on, for durability?

[Pete M]

what advantage do you think the liner gives over traditional paint? 

[NC Tom]

1 hour ago, Pete M said:

what advantage do you think the liner gives over traditional paint? 

Mainly it's DIY friendly. Which, in turn, means cheaper. I need both! I also like the look.

[Pete M]

no more effort than DIY paint.   it can only protect against scratches and once you get a dent (or worse), makes it 1000 times harder to fix. 

[NC Tom]

3 minutes ago, Pete M said:

no more effort than DIY paint.

 

I don't have any experience with it, however, I understand you can apply it with a brush, roller or spray because it's self-leveling. Traditional auto paint is not self-leveling. I have a lot of experience with rattlecans, spraying small parts, etc, so I know it can run. Yikes!

 

If you know of a solid method for DIY, please share. I'd love to know that knowledge and be more smarter!

[Pete M]

practice more with spraying.   the key is multiple light coats, never let the can stop moving, and don't apply the next coat until the can says to.  it can absolutely be done without any running.   the stuff on my KJ's flares comes from a spray can (and honestly is a horrible material for a bedliner because it's super thin like paint and feels like sandpaper).  it's got 3 or 4 coats on it. 

 

also avoid super humid days for any coating application.  the can will mention that it takes way longer to cure on a humid day. 

[zomeizter]

I rolled-on some liner on my scout floor and it came out fantastic, but there was a lot of prep performed prior to application. Preparation is key no matter what method you choose to apply the coating. As Pete says, closely follow the instructions on the container and the results shall bring you happiness.