The truck bed is one of the most important components of your vehicle. When choosing a new truck or upgrading the bed, you have several decisions to make regarding the truck bed. To help you make the right choices, here are a few questions to ask yourself.
Is Steel or Aluminum Better?
Steel and aluminum are two of the most popular options for material when it comes to the truck bed. Each material has its own pros and cons that you should weigh before making your final decision.
Steel truck beds are highly durable and can be easily patched if there is damage. The material is also a cost-effective option. Regardless of your budget, you should be able to secure a steel truck bed that fits your needs. There is a drawback to a steel truck bed though. It is susceptible to rusting, which means you have to carefully inspect it on a regular basis. Rust has to be treated immediately to avoid spreading.
Aluminum truck beds are typically the more expensive option, but there are many benefits to the material. For instance, it is lightweight and is not prone to rusting. If you decide to sell the truck in the future, you do not have to worry about the resale value being impacted by a rusted truck bed.
How Will You Protect the Truck Bed?
Regardless of the type of truck bed you opt for, you should consider covering it to protect it from environmental factors. If you choose the steel, this is especially important if you want to avoid rust. You have a couple of options available to protect the truck bed.
One option is a bed liner. The bed liner is designed to fit over the truck bed and provide a protective layer that will keep moisture or dirty out. The bed liner can be made of plastic or vinyl and will be molded to the shape of your truck to ensure the best fit.
Another option is the truck cap. The cap fits over the truck bed in a bubble-type shape. The truck cap works to protect your truck's bed and can even provide cover for items that you are hauling. If you use your truck on a regular basis for hauling items, the cap is likely the best option.
Before making a final decision, consult with a parts dealer who can provide you additional benefits of various types of truck beds. Look for a company like Martin Truck Bodies, Inc for more information.
