How Many Cans of Spray Do You Need for a Bed Liner?
When preparing for a bed liner installation, understanding how many cans of spray are required can be crucial for ensuring your project goes smoothly. This guide delves into the various types of sprays available and provides practical tips on determining the number of cans needed.
Understanding Bed Liner Sprays
Bed liners are protective coatings designed to withstand harsh conditions and provide a durable surface for your truck bed. They are typically applied through a spray-on process and come in different forms, including professional-grade cans and smaller cans similar to spray paint. Each type has its own advantages and coverage capabilities, making it important to choose the right one for your needs.
Professional Grade Cans vs. Smaller Cans
Professional Grade Cans: These are typically larger, more robust cans designed for commercial use. Depending on the brand and type, a single professional can can cover a significant area, such as about 10 long bed trucks. For smaller beds, a single can may cover around 6 to 8 short beds. It's essential to consider factors like the size of your truck bed and your application requirements when using these cans.
Smaller Cans (Similar to Spray Paint Cans): These are smaller and more commonly available. The coverage area can vary widely depending on the brand and specific product. Generally, you'll need to calculate the area you want to cover and check the can's specifications to determine how much surface area one can will cover. Some smaller cans may cover as little as 5 to 8 square feet, while others can cover up to 15 to 20 square feet or more.
Calculating Coverage for Your Truck Bed
Before making your purchase, calculate the area of your truck bed to determine the amount of spray you will need. This involves measuring the length and width of your truck bed and calculating the total square footage. Once you know the coverage area of each can, you can calculate the number of cans you will need for a complete application.
A Sampling of Common Truck Bed Sizes
6-Foot Pickup Beds: These are one of the most common sizes, with a typical area of about 120 square feet. As a general rule of thumb, one gallon (which is equivalent to about 3.785 liters) of spray should be sufficient for a 6-foot pickup bed, assuming you are using a professional-grade can.
Longer Beds (8-Foot and Above): These beds can range from 144 square feet to over 200 square feet, depending on the make and model. A single professional can may cover several 8-foot beds, but you might need multiple cans depending on the specific area you are covering.
E Smaller Beds (5.5 to 6.5 Feet): These beds are usually around 85 to 110 square feet. A single professional can may cover 2 to 3 smaller beds, while smaller cans may cover 1 to 2 beds, depending on the coverage area of the cans you are using.
Conclusion
Selecting the right number of cans for your bed liner project is crucial for achieving the desired results. Whether you opt for professional-grade cans or smaller cans, the key is to measure the area you want to cover and consider the specific requirements of your truck bed. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your bed liner application is both efficient and effective.