What’s in the Kit

• Bilstein 5100 front shocks
• Front old man emu medium to heavy-duty lift coils
• Rear extended Bilstein 5100 shocks allowing for longer travel
• Rear old man emu coils ranging from medium to heavy duty

FRONT SETUP

• Option 1: OME 880: Stock front weight. 1.5 inch lift
• Option 2: OME 881: Stock front weight. with 2 inch of lift with 5100’s
• Option 3: OME 883: 200 + lbs additional front weight heavy bumper 2.5 inch Lift

REAR SETUP

• Option 1: OME 906 coils 2″ Lift
• Option 2: OME 890 coils 2.5″ Lift normal weight
• Option 3: OME 891 coils / heavy duty Duty 2.5″ of lift “Recommended for added weight such as bumpers or a lot of extra gear”

They also give you the option to purchase the fronts pre-assembled, with new top hats. This saves you the trouble of buying or borrowing spring compressors, and if you do not have an impact wrench, just compressors would take you FOREVER. If you can’t cheaply get compressors, and don’t have an impact, just go for the pre-assembled. You’ve been warned. 

Before

After

The Install

I opted for the OME 881s with 5100s in the front (and spacers) with OME 890 coils in the rear with 5100s.

Install was straightforward. Having the proper jacks/stands will make a big difference. Otherwise, everything went pretty smooth. Get some penetrating oil to give some of those rusted nuts a bit more play, otherwise should be good. Getting the rear shock on drivers side out is a pain in the a$$ because of how the top bolt sits in the chassis, it’s very crowded. Could be a good time to replace sway bar and control arm bushings too, if you think ahead and order new ones. 

Overall

The lift was 2.5″ (rear) and 2″ in the front, and made a huuuuge difference from where the 4runner was sagging beforehand. Turns out I need to replace an inner tie rod before getting my tires aligned but, overall, stoked on the ease of this job and quality of parts from YotaMafia.

The post YotaMafia 3rd Gen 4Runner Lift Kit Review appeared first on ShedHeads.

I was a Nalgene bottle guy back in the day. Then, moved to Klean Kanteen as my go-to. But, since getting my hands on this Epic Water Filters bottle (a small brand out of Boulder Colorado), I don’t know if I can ever go back to any other water bottle. 

About Epic Water Filters

EWF was actually founded back in 2015, by entrepreneur Ash Heather. After moving from Asia to the USA, he was blown away by all of the disposable plastic water bottle usage. We’ve all heard the rhetoric that we should avoid single use plastic, but it’s pretty astonishing to think that a million water bottles are purchased every day. 

Ash’s thinking that if we can solve the reusable water bottle solution by having filtered water on hand at all times of the day, we should be able to reduce the impact on the environment. And with that, Epic Water Filters (abbreviated EWF for the remainder of this article) was born.

The Bottles & Filters

EWF produces a few different bottle designs (including a Nalgene version!) but what they all share in common is a small charcoal filter inside the bottles, that filter out tap water contaminants, on demand. It’s basically a brita filter but in your water bottle! Each filter purchases replaces 550 plastic water bottles, so you know you’re doing your part!

By using a straw attached to the filter, as you suck water up the straw it filters it on-demand. So, regardless of where you are filling your bottle from, you know you’ve got clean, contaminant-free filtered water to take with you.

While tap water does get standard treatments, there are trace elements that can contaminate your tap water and produce bad tastes and harmful health effects.

Outdoor Filter

While the standard filters are recommended for use exclusively for tap water, EWF also produces outdoor filters that can be used to filter out less desirable water sources like creeks or in areas where the water quality is unknown (tap water goes through some standard treatments). 

Filter Pitchers

EWF also produces water filter pitchers to compete directly with Brita and other similar brands so you can have a large pitcher to keep in your fridge for filtered water at home. But we’re talking water bottles, so back to that!

The Outback Bottle

The bottle I’ve got is the Outback model, a vacuum-sealed, stainless steel version with their standard filter. It’s pretty awesome.

Who it’s for

So I wasn’t kidding when I said this was my new favorite bottle. Although the branding is very much focused on outdoors and adventures (the base and lid are basically designed to look like off-road tires), with being forced to work completely remotely due to the pandemic, I think this is perfect office/work-from-home/digital nomad bottle. 

How the design plays in

First of all – the rubber base? It’s non-slip makes it stick to the desk so when you bump it, it doesn’t go crashing down on your laptop and papers. Before working from home I was hopping between cafes and shared work spaces, and being able to fill the bottle with any water, and know I’m drinking fresh filtered water is an absolute dream. 

The rubber mouth piece. You may think it’s hard to suck water up and out of the straw due to forcing water through the filter. And, it is – at least more so than a regular water bottle. But it’s not really an issue because of what you’re getting, and surprisingly, it’s a good reminder while you drink that you’re working for your filtered water. It’s almost like you work for the reward! 

Lastly – it’s just a quality bottle. The components are stiff and sturdy, nothing seems like it’s going to break easily, and let’s be honest, it looks pretty dang sleek. Again, the branding is maybe a little “intense” for the bottle but, it certainly gets the job done. 

How the water tastes

So, how does it make the water taste? Great! Technically, it doesn’t make it taste like anything, which is great! Our tap water at home has a little extra chlorine-y taste which is completely negated through the EWF filter. 

Overall

So while I could probably write another 300+ words about how much I like this bottle, I think you get the point. The company is focused on doing good and making a positive impact on the environment. The bottles, though in my opinion, seem to be marketed to a different group than it should be, are an amazing companion for most people. All in all, I’ve been using this thing multiple times a day, and can’t really think of any ways to improve it at this point on time.

Let me know your thoughts if you pick one up.

The post Epic Water Filters Water Bottle Review appeared first on ShedHeads.

What The Electric Vehicle Companies Have Brought us in 2020 

The end of 2020 will see this promise being delivered with the launch of two new Electric Vehicles (EVs) designed to deliver on the road and off. With it’s futuristic and sleek design, both the R1T (truck) and the R1S (SUV) have been highly anticipated. Impressive statistics like 0 – 60 seconds in roughly 3 seconds catching the immediate eye of any petrol EV head. At this stage if you aren’t hitting a sub 3 second 0 – 60 you certainly aren’t keeping up with the Joneses. You’ll need those kinds of statistics if you’re to compete with the Tesla Model X, currently on the market, and the recently released GMC Hummer Electric Truck set to launch in 2022.

In 2019, the U.S saw trucks lead the highest vehicle sales with the Ford F-series taking top spot followed by the Ram pickup and the Chevy Silverado. This trend is only continuing in 2020 and Rivian’s launch of its own R1T is coming at a very good time. Let’s breakdown what you can expect from the new EV truck.

The Rivian R1T

Battery Sizes & Important Dates

Both models will be available in three different battery sizes with estimated prices in (USD):

• 105.0-kWh ~ $70,500
• 135.0-kWh ~ $75,500
• 180.0kWh ~ $80,500

It is reported that preholders of these models will be able to start configuration online around November 16th 2020 with a $1,000 refundable deposit. The R1T is set to be delivered directly to the consumer in June 2021 with the R1S following closely behind around late August 2020. The initial delivery of the R1T will be in the largest battery size (180.0-kWh) with the others to make their way shortly into the market. Being a first mover of the R1T could see you tackling roads off the beaten track as early as summer 2021 with a new set of wheels and a smile as wide as the grand canyon.

Features to get very excited about:

Next-level Design

It can not be understated the attention to detail that went into the design of these two vehicles each boasting subtly, class, and simplicity. From the stadium-shaped headlights for wider beams, to the sustainably sourced wood providing a delicate and natural commentary to the spacious interior. Integrated neatly into the cockpit will be two displays. A 12.3 inch digital screen will head up your dashboard with several different viewing modes. A 15.6 inch touchscreen will be in the main console to interactively steer through your environment and the vehicle options.

2021 Looking Promising?

All said and done, the secrecy and years of careful planning by Rivian since 2009 has brought us two beautifully thought out EVs. Set to hit the market in times when climate change is becoming the most important topic to navigate, surely there should be no shortage of interest? I won’t deny, the price is steep and it has to be asked: Are EVs becoming statements rather than affordable options for people to move away from gasoline? Certainly food for thought as the rest of the automotive market rushes to the EV cake to each grab a slice.

References

https://www.motortrend.com/news/2022-gmc-hummer-ev-pickup-how-gm-fast-tracked-it/

https://www.caranddriver.com/rivian/r1t

https://rivian.com/r1t

https://www.musclecarsandtrucks.com/rivian-r1t-will-beat-tesla-cybertruck-hummer-ev-and-electric-ford-f-150-to-market/

https://www.carscoops.com/2020/08/rivian-benchmarking-their-interiors-against-bentley-and-lamborghini/

The post The Rivian R1T – What to Expect in 2021 appeared first on ShedHeads.

A great water bottle is arguably one of the best purchases you can make these days. Staying properly hydrated is crucial to staying fit and healthy, and keeping your brain working at full capacity. While you could just buy a cheap-o plastic water bottle, it’s not great for the environment and they don’t really work that well either. Lately a bunch of brands have come onto the scene making some pretty wicked water bottles that help keep your drinks cold (or hot) and also look cool, which is arguably the best way to get someone to change a habit (think Tesla and electric vehicles). Manna Hydration is one of these companies, and they’ve got a wide inventory of great water bottles that should really get you excited. Let’s dive into our in-depth review of Manna Water bottles and see if they’re worth your money.

Manna Bottles

Manna makes a huge variety of types of water bottles. From the Titan line to the Moonshine collection to Convoy and and Rezi, there are a lot of options to choose from. There are a lot of features that all Manna water bottles share, though.

• Every Manna water bottle is made with 18/8 kitchen grade stainless steel that won’t stain or transfer any flavours
• Every bottle is made with a double walled vacuum sealed design
• The stainless steel is lead free, and no plastic components have any BPA
• All the bottles are sweat-proof, meaning that you won’t get condensation around the outside of the bottle, due to the double-wall vacuum design.
• The bottles are leak-proof as well,
• Replacement lids are easily available

Vacuum Insulated Makes a Difference

Vacuum sealed water bottles aren’t a new thing, and if anything they’re now a standard among water bottle companies. These aren’t just regular bottles of water, but typically vacuum insulated stainless steel vessels that can keep your drinks cold for more than 12 hours. How exactly does it work? Well, Manna water bottles aren’t just a single layer, but actually have a double wall design, separated by a small gap of air. However, it’s not actually air, since they suck all (or most of) the air out of that gap to create a vacuum. Because of the way heat is transferred, without any air molecules to transfer the heat, it can’t go anywhere and heat up your drink? Of course, vacuum insulated stainless steel like this isn’t a perfect process, but the double wall design does keep things cold for much longer than a traditional design. Is this a little too much for a water bottle? Ask yourself that next time you’re at the beach and take a swig of your *now* hot water while someone else is still drinking ice water!

Other Customer Reviews

We always do a quick review of what the online community is saying about a product before we review it ourselves. Here’s what the community had to say:

• People love the variety of Manna bottles available, from everyday sizes with retro and tropical prints, to large and heavy duty models like the Titan line
• Customers are often impressed by the effectiveness of the bottles at keeping water cold or hot drinks steaming hot!
• The durability of the bottles is another point that many positive reviewers touch on, you can rest easy knowing if you accidentally drop the bottle you’re not going to need to replace it. You might get a ding or dent in some of the smaller and thinner models but thicker models like the Convoy can take a beating!
• Some users report Manna bottles have issues fitting certain sizes of ice cubes into the mouth of the bottle, so that’s something to keep in mind.
• Many people report that they’ve had ice last for several days!
• Most folks also speak to the price point of Manna water bottles, noting they get the same performance with similar quality at a much better price than other brands like YETI or s’well.
• Reviewers have also reported hot drinks staying hot for more than 24 hours in a Manna!
• Unfortunately some users have reported their plastic lids breaking on some models after dropping the bottles.
• Regardless, many reviewers have mentioned online that Manna is the best bottle of water they’ve ever owned!

Our Review

We were able to get our hands on 4 different models of Manna Water bottles for this review: the Titan, Rezi, Retro, and Convoy. Here’s what we thought.

The Retro

The Retro models are Manna’s most basic model of 20oz water bottle. They’re more of a no frills vacuum sealed water bottle, but with a fancy coating. Unlike other powder coated water bottles, the 20oz bottles are wrapped in a tight plastic “wallpaper.” This is actually kind of nice from a durability stand point since you can’t chip the powder coat off, but it can still rip. These bottles are most similar to S’well bottles, but they do lack a little in terms of performance in comparison. These stainless steel bottles still have the double walled design, and keep your drink hot/cold for hours, but they’re not the best bottles Manna makes.

Check Price Online >> 

The Convoy

There are a few different models of Convoy bottles, but the one we have is the 40oz powder coated model. And – we absolutely love it. It’s a great size and it looks really awesome. The loop on the lid folds down to keep a low profile so it doesn’t stick out, and the cap on the lid is attached at the same point using a metal pin. It’s a pretty cool design we don’t see often. Whatever drink you have in there should stay cold all day, and this has really become an every day bottle for me. The small details like the grippy rubber around the lid and cap really make it special. The one downside – it can be a little too easy if you’re in a hurry to close the cap and have it crooked, changing the bottle from leak proof to leak machine, but as long as you close it properly there’s no issue. I worry at times about the pin keeping the loop and cap on failing over time, but so far, no issues. Overall, love my Convoy!

Check Price Online >> 

The Rezi Sport

The Rez Sport i is what we see as the equivalent to a small Klean Kanteen, with a thick, immovable loop and a flip-up straw. The only reason that I personally have made the Convoy may day-to-day bottle is that I enjoy the 40oz size vs. the 22oz Rezi, but the Rezi has some awesome features I love, such as the flip-up mouth piece attached to a straw. That being said – it fits most cupholders unlike the 22oz so if that’s a big deal for you, it might be the Rezi sport you need! It’s got a little loop on the straw that you can thumb open so you can keep the bottle closed and sealed but still open it up with one hand, perfect when you’re running or driving. The large thick plastic loop is awesome and can be attached or clipped to anything you need, and it definitely won’t break. The one downside is that if you don’t keep the bottle dry when not in use, the straw can get a little yucky, so make sure you clean and flush often to avoid any issues! Otherwise, this is an awesome stainless steel water bottle that will hold your drink cold for hours and hours wherever you end up.

Check Price Online >> 

Titan

Ah, yes the Titans! These behemoths are Manna’s largest offerings at a whopping 128oz and 78oz. These bad boys are perfect bottles for water when camping, hunting, fishing, sports or for use as a growler! They’ve got a very similar lid to the Convoy, making it easy to pour and drink from, but with a cap that stays attached to the lid via a small metal pin. Two folding handles make it easy to hold or carry, and also fold down to maintain a low profile for packing into the vehicle or gym bag. These double-wall vacuum sealed, leak proof monsters claim to hold the cold for 120 hours and heat for 24 hours – so we actually put them to the test. Okay – I actually only tested for 24 hours, but when you see the results for yourself, you’ll see why I didn’t even really need to.

Check Price Online >> 

The Test

Really quick preface: I know this isn’t a perfect test, but it does a darn good job of showing you how good these bottles are keeping things cold, and hot. In order to test the two Titans, I filled the 78oz Titan half way with ice cubes, then to the top with water and sat at room temperature for 24 hours. The temperature inside the bottle was around 3-4 degrees celsius (37F), and room temperature at the time was around 22 degrees celsius (72F). The 128oz was filled with hot water around 57 degrees celsius (134F) and left in the same spot for 24 hours.

The Results

After 24 hours, I had some pretty promising results. The 78oz Titan only gained a few degrees, coming in at 7.6 degrees celsius (45F), so that water was still pretty icy! Had there been more ice cubes in the bottle at the beginning I think there would have been some left. The 128oz bottle went from 57C / 134F to 45C /113F, which was a bigger difference than the cold test, but still pretty remarkable how hot the bottle kept the water hot! I know this isn’t a perfect test, but for the purposes of this review, these Manna water bottles performed excellently. And honestly, when do you need your drink to stay hot or cold for longer than 12 hours anyways?

The Round up Review

So, what’s the final verdict? Well, in our opinion after this thorough review, a Manna water bottle definitely deserves a serious look when you’re in the market for a new stainless steel water bottle. They’re made of top notch materials, with great features. Specifically the Rezi and Convoy were our favourites, followed by the Titan for special occasions like camping or tailgating. Definitely consider one of these Manna bottles for your next purchase, and check out the rest of the site for more great product reviews!

Check Price Online >> 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Are Manna Water Bottles Safe?

Yes – made with kitchen grade 18/8 stainless steel, and are guaranteed lead-free and BPA-free.

What is the healthiest water bottle to use?

Honestly, the healthiest water bottle is the one that you use. That’s why companies like Manna focus on style and features to make it more than just a bottle for water, and make it a habit and an accessory, increasing the chances you’ll actually use it frequently.

What is the best material for a water bottle?

Although the easy answer here is stainless steel, a steel water bottle is only useful if it’s double walled and vacuum sealed, since without the two walls, the bottle will sweat like crazy when filled with cold water in a warm environment or warm water in a cool environment.

Are manna water bottles stainless steel?

YES! Have you even been listening? They’re widely considered one of the top stainless steel bottles you can get your hands on.

The post Our Manna Water Bottle Review appeared first on ShedHeads.

No-Till Gardening has really been making a name for itself recently, for good reason. Not only does the physical aspect appeal to many (not having to till your garden every season) but there are also a lot of benefits to the plants you are growing, and to the soil of your garden. In this guide we unearth everything you need to know to get started with no-till gardening, some tips and tricks to show you the best way to go about it!

What is No-Till Gardening?

Simply put, no-till gardening (also referred to as zero-tillage) is simply gardening where we do not disturb the soil during tillage. Tillage is the preparation of soil for agriculture. Traditionally, soil is tilled at the beginning of the growing season, where you physically disturb the soil with a spade or hoe, disturbing any weeds that have taken hold, and then allowing you to add compost and other amendments. Compost is the best way to add organic matter back to the garden, and is arguably one of the most important parts of no till gardening and organic gardening in general.

Zero Tillage Farming

No-Till Gardening was brought about by bringing a smaller scale practice of no-till farming. It’s essentially the same practice, just at a different scale. There are pros and cons to anything and the practice of tillage is no different. Some studies have shown that no-till farming can be profitable in some situations, while some people believe it increases the use of herbicides due to controlling the weed populations. Regardless, at a smaller scale in a garden bed, it can really work.

The Benefits of No Till

When you till a garden, you break up the soil, mixing up deep soil, bringing up deep soil to the top of the bed. This can disturb any weeds and some pathogenic microbes from taking hold, but it can also have the opposite effect: interrupting a healthy soil system allowing for any pathogens to get in. By using a thick layer of mulch and growing cover crops, you protect the soil below your mulch and prevent weeds from planting roots. By using a thick layer of compost, you can add organic matter and natural fertilizer to your garden beds, avoiding the need to use synthetic fertilizer. There are many benefits to no till, none of which more important than extending your garden soil life span.

Promotes Soil Health

Soil isn’t just dirt you put plants in. It’s a symbiotic stew of beneficial organisms all teeming around in your garden that help your plants to grow. While we commonly think of bacteria, fungus, viruses and insects as bad, there are many that are beneficial to us and our plants, and tilling can interrupt their growth and cause reduced yields. Mycorrhizal fungi are a good example – fungi that form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots and help the plants uptake nutrients, conserve water, and fend off pathogens. However, disturbed soil can impact these fungi, reducing their population and effectiveness in helping your plants grow. Arthropods and earthworms are two more crucial components of a healthy soil and their populations are also severely impacted by tilling. And we haven’t even talked about the billions of bacteria in soil! When you think of the millions and millions of other organisms in soil aside from the plants, and what we are potentially doing to them when tilling, it kinda makes you think twice, right?

Improves Aeration & Drainage

Tilling can reduce both aeration and drainage in soil. While it is thought that tilling can improve aeration by mixing up the soil and adding oxygen to the system, a healthy soil should do this naturally, with plant roots, fungal mycelium and insects producing tunnels in the soil system to promote oxygenation. We use cover crops in the no till garden which can also improve aeration and drainage, as their plant roots help break up soil while still adding structure to the soil.

Conserves Water

In order to get the same benefits of tilling without having to, we add a thick layer of mulch in place of tilling. This provides more organic substance for decomposers to break down into nutrients, resulting in a rich soil. Mulch also has another benefit, which acts to conserve water. Thick layers of mulch prevent water from evaporating from the soil, conserving water. Cover crops can also function to preserve water in the garden, but overall if you can reduce your watering requirements, that’s a win all around.

Can Reduce or Eliminate Weeding

Arguably one of the most popular benefits of not ill gardening is the reduction of weeding required. Weeds are an inevitability of gardening, since plants we consider weeds are specifically designed to survive in any environment they can! So while it’s never possible to fully keep weeds away, no till can make a significant difference in the number of weeds present in your garden. Most soil contains the weed seeds that are laying dormant deep inside, and once the soil is disturbed and exposed to oxygen and light, it signals to the weed seeds to germinate and start growing in your freshly tilled garden. Again, weeds are an inevitability, but not ill can significantly reduce the number of weeds present.

Preserves Carbon

The healthiest soils are ones with large amounts of organic matter present, with high amounts of carbon and other organic materials, typically obtained through compost. The best garden is one that can slowly release the nutrients available over time, and a freshly tilled soil will cause certain nutrients to be used up all at once. By using a high carbon mulch such as grass clippings and a thick layer of compost, you can add valuable carbon back to the garden.

Reduces Erosion

Planting cover crops is a crucial component of any no till system. Not only does planting cover crops act to outcompete any weeds that may appear, or sequester nutrients like in the case of clover, they also bring structure to your soil. The plant roots of the cover crop hold the soil together like the rebar in concrete, preventing erosion. There are also some weeds that can be beneficial to no till gardening as a cover crop. During your first year of no till it can be difficult to know what is a weed and what should be left to grow, but you can learn this over time.

Lower Costs/Inputs

While no till is still making a name for itself, there is some pretty compelling evidence that this gardening method is here to stay. The reduction of fuel for tractors at large scaler operations is reason enough for some. But even in your garden beds, less work means more time spent in other areas. With a self-propagating cover crop, there’s no need to sow more cover crop seeds the next year. With fewer weeds to pull, you spend less time weeding. And, with a healthier soil you shouldn’t need to use fertilizer! The only cost is really mulch and any other small amendments along the way.

How To Plant a No Till Garden

While the most basic way to think about a no till garden is simply one that you don’t till, or physically disturb the soil, there are a few different components that you need to consider to replace the purpose of tilling. Again, tilling soil is intended to provide oxygen and aeration to garden beds and wipe the slate clean. However, in a no till garden we are aiming to retain all the microbes and complex organic material infrastructure in the soil without tilling. We do this by applying a layer of compost regularly, adding back valuable organic matter to the soil for the microbes to consume.

If you’re ready to plant your garden and get started on the no till method, there’s a few things to keep in mind. We’ll get into specifics in a minute but in general, with no til gardening it’s important to remember the priority is the soil life. Keeping the microbes of your garden happy is the key to keeping every plant in your garden happy. The key to no till gardening is patience as well, since you need to wait for microbes to decompose any layer of mulch you apply, and a cover crop can take a while to grow in. In general if you follow a few key tenets, you should never have to till the garden ever again!

Prep Your Garden

Before you get started on your no till journey, you’ll want to start with a fresh slate. Raised beds with fresh, fertile soil will give you the best starting ground. Many gardeners also recommend to dig 1-2′ deeper than where the beds sit, into the ground. While you dig down, any larger rocks or tree roots should also be removed. Then, it’s typically recommended to add mulch like wood chips, as well as some peat, lime or vermiculite to produce a nice porous mix of soil with lots of organic material.

Get Ready to Mulch

Mulch is a crucial part of no till gardening, as it performs many functions in no till organic gardening. Firstly, mulch is the best way to add nutrients back to your soil since you aren’t mixing nutrients in when you till. A moist garden means water (and nutrients) can flow effectively throughout the entire garden soil, not just the moist areas.

How to Use Mulch

You can think of this like adding firewood to a bonfire. If you need to add wood to the fire, you don’t necessarily mix the whole fire up, exposing and cooling down the coals before adding wood. You generally add it directly to the top of the fire where the flames are and allow it to burn down to the coals. This is how the mulch acts in the garden too – add it directly to the top of your garden and the microbes and other organisms will decompose (burn) it down into the soil. Mulch is also an effective way to conserve water in the garden.

Common Mulch Sources

There are a many different types of mulch that can be used effectively with the no till method. Here’s our recommended list of mulch to consider using.

Straw

Straw, a byproduct of grain crops, is a fantastic mulch material. It’s much less likely to contain any weed seeds, because of the way it is grown and harvested.

Wood Chips

Wood chips are extremely common mulches, used extensively in landscaping, though less so in gardening. This is because the dense wood chips take longer to decompose than perhaps the growing season can provide. However, a little bit of wood goes a long way in any no till garden.

Hay

Hay is a pretty good material to use as mulch. You run the risk of introducing extra weed seeds into your garden because of how hay is stored and harvested for feed, but otherwise it is a great organic material to use as mulch.

Leaves

A very popular mulch material, and valuable to the garden due to all of the carbon contained within. You just want to make sure they are appropriately wetted, or slightly decomposed already to avoid them flying away. They can clump in areas as well so apply a thin, even layer.

Grass Clippings

Grass clippings can be a good mulch layer, however you do run the risk of introducing weeds into your garden, depending on the stage of your garden. While the grass clippings are green is a good way to add extra nitrogen to the garden, great in early development. However, plants don’t need nitrogen during fruiting so it’s best to let the grass brown out if you’re applying it later in the season.

Newspaper

Some folks use newspaper as mulch, and it can be used, though it’s not our favourite. It doesn’t hold moisture the same as other mulch materials and also contains colored inks.

Seeds & Seedlings

It’s important to note that sometimes you may want to sow new seeds or plant new seedlings before you mulch, which is totally fine. You just need to pull back the mulch a little to get right into the soil. You’ll also be adding mulch or other top dresses throughout the season, so just make sure you pull back the mulch from the stems as the plants grow to avoid excess moisture producing rot.

Plant a Cover Crop

Next up, it’s time to plant a cover crop. There is a wide variety of cover crop to choose from, but again, our intention here is to out-compete weeds, and reintroduce nutrients. That’s why a plant like clover is often chosen, since it doesn’t outcompete the other plants in your vegetable garden, it just takes up space that weeds would use. It also fixes nutrient back into the soil. Other common cover crops include oats, rye and hairy vetch.

Top Dress With Compost

Top dressing involves adding any soil amendments that your garden soil might need. This is usually done in the form of compost for organic gardening, however other organic sources of amendments include bone broth, guano, fish emulsion or kelp extract. Top dressing is basically the same as applying mulch, but with the primary objective of adding nutrients vs. conserving moisture. If you’re thinking about trying no till gardening, you’ll want to start a compost immediately, as you’ll want lots of compost throughout the year to help keep your organic garden as happy as possible.

Reduce Your Watering

Because of the use of your mulch and the focus on preserving the soil ecosystem, your no till garden will require less water than you are used to. A vegetable garden can require a lot of water, but with your new no till methods, you’ll need less water than usual. Overwatering your plants will just set you back, so make sure you start watering a little less than usual.

Don’t Compress Your Soil

Because tilling reduces the compaction of the soil by mixing the soil up, it allows for plant roots and fungal mycelium to penetrate the soil and stay healthy. If you’re working in garden beds this shouldn’t be a problem, but if you can’t reach something and have to step into the garden, you’re going to compress the soil so this should be avoided. Using a board that you can lay across the frame of your garden bed should do the trick to avoid stepping inside.

Still Ready to Try No Till Gardening?

No till gardening may seem simpler or lower maintenance, but it’s still a garden with plenty of things to do, and the no till method can leave some frustrated. There is a learning curve, knowing when to apply mulch, how thick of a layer to use, and the time of which you do things can really matter. If you’re ready to try it out, try keeping notes with dates of when you do things, so you can look back if anything goes wrong. Remember, the first year is always the hardest, but if you can put in the time to learn how to compost, how to use cover crops, and all other necessary components, you’ll be rewarded in kind.

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How to Choose The Best Compost Tumbler

Compost is an essential component of a thriving garden. Composting is easy to do, and there are lots of different ways to do it. Batch composters, or compost tumblers, are often the preferred way to compost since it reduces the risk of rodents. Here’s how we ranked the top compost tumblers on the market, to find you the best compost tumbler for the money.

The Best Compost Tumblers of 2020

Best Overall: FCMP Outdoor Dual Body HOTFROG Tumbling Composter

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The biggest draw to a composting tumbler is the fact that it’s very easy to turn and mix, rather than having to do it by hand with a shovel or spade. Almost every 5 star review of this tumbler states how easy it is to turn. “Well made and it spins well. Best value for the money and easy to assemble,” is how one reviewer succinctly put it. This dual chamber tumbler is perfect for all users and very easy to assemble. The large openings make it easy to add and remove waste, and the deep grooves in the exterior make it easy to turn, and carry. Two chambers are so convenient, so that you can continually add waste to one side when you’ve got finished compost on the other side. The plastic is BPA free, and UV resistant so it’s not going to degrade over time. Being raised up so high, and the heavy duty construction makes it very durable and resistant to rodents, which is a huge draw. The powder coated legs also add to the durability. Being lifted so high makes it easy to access, but also makes it easy to get a bucket underneath the tumbler to collect any compost tea that may collect. This is the Cadillac of composter tumblers, and it shows. Excellent aeration, durable and rodent-proof, and dual chamber. The only downside is that it’s not the largest on the list, but since compost is generated so quickly, it doesn’t really matter.

Second-Best Compost Tumbler: EJWOX

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Next up on the list is the EJWOX composter, another dual chamber compost tumbler with some great features. The two chambers are perfect so you can keep one side for finished compost and one for an in-process mix. That way, you never have to wait for fresh compost, you’ve always got some ready to go. This tumbler is superior to a classic compost bin primarily due to the two chambers, but also the fact that it sits on raised legs. This makes it very easy to spin, but also keeps it safe from rodents and squirrels. What makes this tumbler a little more unique is the internal aeration bar – it runs the length of the chambers adding oxygen right to the center of the compost. The aeration holes also make it easy to collect the compost tea. Compost tea is the liquid that builds up during the compost process, which you can drain into a bucket and use as fertilizer. It’s a perfect height, has thick, durable black walls to keep it nice and hot, and the powder coated steel frame is tough and sturdy. This is an awesome choice if you can find it in stock!

Best Large-Capacity Compost Tumbler: Spin Bin Composter

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Ah yes, the Spin Bin. This behemoth of a compost tumbler is the best compost tumbler you can get your hands on if you generate a lot of waste and need a lot of compost. The Spin Bin composter has as massive 60 gallon capacity, so you can ensure you fit all your brown waste (leaves, twigs etc.) and your green waste in. This spin bin composter is simple in design, but that doesn’t mean it’s not effective. It’s got slightly thinner walls than the first two tumblers on the list, but the black construction keeps it nice and hot. It also has an internal aeration bar to help the process along. The entire composter, from the bin itself to the stainless steel legs are made right here in the USA, and comes with a 2yr warranty. It’s fairly easy to use, but some reviewers have found it can be difficult to turn when it’s very full of compost. And unfortunately you sacrifice convenience of two chambers for the large capacity. Overall, if you need a massive compost bin that you can easily tumble, this is the compost bin for you.

Best Rodent-Proof Compost Tumbler: Miracle-Gro

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The next compost tumbler on the list is this Miracle Grow dual composter. It has 2x 28 gallon capacity tumblers, for a substantial capacity. And it has a footprint of just 24″ x 37″ making it fairly compact as far as compost bins go. It’s super easy to use, and has these nifty stoppers that can lock the rotation so you don’t accidentally dump your compost everywhere if the wind picks up or you forget to close a door. It’s got a great durable design, BPA free plastic with thick black walls to keep the heat high and drive the composting process. The best part of this tumbling composter specifically is how tight the doors can close, and they also lock! This means you can safely compost without fear of rodents getting in and around your compost, garden and home. This composter also has all the other features you expect like sturdy stainless steel legs, internal aeration bars, and is super easy to turn. The only downside? It’s a little short, so you may be bending over more than the others on the list. But, all this in mind with the 2 year warranty, and you’ve got an awesome composter to consider.

Best Budget Compost Tumbler: FCMP IM4000

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To round out our list of the best compost tumblers you can get, we have another FCMP model, but their budget version. It’s still a tumbler with dual chambers, but what makes it a little less convenient than our best overall composter is the single sliding door. Other than the fact that you spin both chambers at the same time and have a single door, you still get all the best features that FCMP promises with their other products. The thick, black BPA-free and UV resistant walls are made from recycled plastic, and will last for ages. The galvanized steel frame won’t corrode either. The dual chambers have a total capacity of about 37 gallons, which is a good size for most people’s garden. This is another one of these composters that is raised up to a comfortable height, which also means it’s harder for rodents to access. So long as you make sure you are giving this tumbling composter a spin every 2 or 3 days, you should get finished compost in 2-3 weeks. The two chambers allow you to have a finished batch of compost and also an in-process batch. Overall, this tumbler composter is an awesome budget choice to keep your garden firing at all cylinders.

What is a Compost Tumbler?

A compost tumbler is some sort of barrel of other container that is designed to turn or ‘tumble’ to sufficiently mix your organic discards (fruit and veggie scraps) and any compost that’s already developed. When you buy a tumbler, there are a few characteristics you want them to possess. Typically, you want one that’s dark coloured and opaque, which helps build the heat inside, driving fermentation of the compost. Ideally, the best tumbler will also have two compartments or chambers, so you can add fresh materials to one side, while ‘harvesting’ the other side once it’s finished.

Why should you use a tumbler vs a bin?

There are a few reasons why people often use compost tumblers, most notably because many compost tumbler brands advertise that they produce compost much faster than traditional methods, sometimes claiming compost in 2 weeks. Realistically, it will likely take longer than that, but it still is faster than your usual compost bins. The best composters should be producing compost in just a few weeks though.

It’s Easy to Mix and Turn

There is a very traditional method of composting called ‘hot pile’ where you build a massive pile of compost, and the microbes fermenting the vegetable matter produce a lot of heat. However, you should be constantly turning the compost to add oxygen in to keep the fermentation going and to produce a nice even compost. So, when your compost is in a compost bin or just a pile, it can be very hard to do this. A compost tumbler is super easy to turn while you walk by it in the garden, and it only takes seconds vs 20 minutes of hard work with a pitchfork.

It’s good to keep your compost hot

When the temperatures drop in fall and winter, composting will slow down naturally due to the lower temps. The thick walls and fully close-able doors of a tumbler helps keep the heat in during the winter as well, driving fermentation and fending off soil pathogens and weeds.

Many tumblers can also be moved around, brought inside a shed or the garage, or even just closer to the house to keep the temperature high. Ideally your bin will have a ‘compost tea collector’ which catches the liquid drips from the bin, but if not you’ll want to get something to catch the drips if you move it indoors.

It keeps your compost moist

The thick walls and closing chambers that keeps a compost tumbler running hot also function to keep the moisture in. If you’re just using a compost bin or a pile, moisture can escape out the top and slow the composting process. Tumblers keep the moisture in, and also allow the compost tea/leachate to seep out and to be used as fertilizer.

It just looks nicer

If you use one of those black compost bins or just a compost pile, it doesn’t really look that nice in your garden, and they can make a mess. Tumblers keep the compost contained inside, and if you really care, you can easily move it around when you have guests over.

They’re much more animal and rodent proof

The main reason people say they don’t compost is because they’re worried about wildlife and rodents invading their compost and gardens. Tumblers, with their closing doors and lifted design make it much more difficult for animals to access the compost which might smell good to them!

What to look for in a compost tumbler?

There are a few features you want your composter to have. While many people have just boxes or bins composting their waste, there are a few ways to improve your compost, and that’s usually with a tumbler. The best composters have a few features that speed up the composting process.

Thick, Dark Walls

You want to keep the compost hot, and dark for best results. So thick, black walls of your composter are the easiest way to keep the process rolling, quickly.

Raised legs

The main reason to go for a composter that is also a tumbler is to get away from the manual work of tossing and mixing your compost. Bin composters that sit on the ground don’t make it easy to mix, but being on legs allow you to mix the compost easily, move the tumbler around if you need to, and easily collect any compost tea that may be produced.

Dual Chambers

The best composter is one that you will use. And one of the best ways to get good use from your composter is to have one with two chambers. This way you can always have a ready to go batch while the other side of the chamber keeps composting away.

Tight, Closing Doors

The best way to ensure animals and rodents stay away from your garden and composter is to ensure the doors can close fully, and tightly. Composters that just have an open top and bottom allow rodents to come and go as they like. A composter with close-able, and even better, lockable doors keeps rodents out for good.

How do you use a compost tumbler?

Using a compost tumbler might seem quite simple at the outset – you put the vegetable and fruit waste in, turn it a couple times a week and ba-da-boom, you’ve got compost. In reality, there are a few ways to improve your compost and get the most out of your composting tumbler though.

The key to a great compost from your tumbler is a good ratio of brown waste and green waste.

Brown Waste vs Green Waste

Green waste is the fresh material from your kitchen – the banana peels, coffee grounds, lawn clippings and vegetable waste you produce. It’s got a lot of water in it, and typically has a lot of nitrogen as well, a key nutrient for plants.

Brown waste by contrast is drier and denser, and is usually things like the dried leaves you raked up, wood pellets, paper products and dead plants. This type of plant material has high amounts of carbon, is absorbent and adds a lot of substance to your compost.

How you formulate your compost mix really depend son what you’re using and generating, but you want to find a mix that works well. A typical ratio of brown to green is 2 parts brown waste to 1 part green waste.

Compost Troubleshooting

Your compost may not smell amazing, but it shouldn’t smell bad. If it’s too wet and smells like methane, or you’re seeing maggots or a lot of flies, you need to add some more brown waste to add carbon to the mix and soak up the moisture. If it’s too dry and doesn’t seem active, you need to add some green waste.

If you’re really having trouble getting your compost going you can also add a compost starter to the process like you would when you’re making yogurt, beer or wine. It’s basically a product that contains the same microbes that you would find in your compost once it’s more developed. Adding starter just helps kick it off.

How often should I spin it?

A common question is how often should you tumble your compost tumbler. Some folks spin daily, but that can potentially add too much oxygen to the mix, and cool it down too much. It’s a good idea to spin whenever you add new material to make sure you’ve got a nice homogenous mix, but after that, every 3 days or so is a good average. Spin it more frequently when it’s really hot, spin it less frequently when it’s cooler.

Want to make your own Tumbler? 

The post Choosing the Best Compost Tumbler of 2020 appeared first on ShedHeads.

Let’s start with the important advice: Your truck needs a bed liner. If your truck does not have its bed fully protected it will eventually lead to damage ranging from dents to rust, and both the usefulness and lifespan of your vehicle can be greatly impacted. (LINK)Pre-molded “drop-in” bed liners(/LINK) are an effective option in certain cases but painting your own bed liner can be done cheaply and easily from home. We’ll walk you through it with our easy guide.

Purchasing Raptor Liner

You’ll need to get a kit, when you can find more details about in our raptor liner buyers guide. If you haven’t read up yet, please take a look so you know what materials you’ll need.

Preparing to Paint Your Truck Bed

Assuming you’ve read up on (LINK)the pros & cons of various bed liner paint(/LINK) and have chosen the kit that’s right for you it’s time to get everything in the back of your truck scrubbed down and clean – And I do mean clean. Spotlessly clean. White-glove clean. “I could eat a plate of spaghetti off of this” clean. Cleaner than your truck bed has probably ever been in its life, including when it rolled fresh and new off the factory floor. Making sure you’ve gotten everything scrubbed can take a lot of effort but no fear – We’ve broken it down into this list of easy-to-follow steps:

* Step #1: First, make sure to follow appropriate safety guidelines. Safety goggles are a must through-out the entire process – First to protect against metal shards and secondly to protect against loose splatters of paint. When it comes to the painting process itself you’ll want to have a ventilation mask handy as well. (LINK)Using polyurethane-based truck liner paints can be hazardous(/LINK) so make sure to take the proper precautions.

* Step #2: If your truck is older and has any rusty sections make sure to scrub them thoroughly with a wire brush, getting down to the bare metal. Once these spots have been cleaned remove the rusty dust with either a leaf blower or a vacuum and then prime these bare spots with a spray-based zinc primer. Allow these to fully dry before proceeding.

* Step #3: If possible, remove your truck’s tailgate prior to proceeding – This will help make the cleaning and painting process for the rest of the bed much easier. If you want to paint the interior of your tailgate just follow the rest of these steps on the surface you want to paint before reattaching it to the truck.

* Step #4: Degrease your truck bed thoroughly with a trisodium phosphate (TSP) cleaner, making sure to leave behind no oil, grease or other stains; use a scraper if you have to to get rid of stubborn, stuck-on stains. While cleaning try to wipe in one direction, from the front of your truck bed to the open end, to help protect against pooling.

* Step #5: Once it’s been degreased wash your truck bed thoroughly. Do not apply any sort of wax or after product; the bed should be down to bare paint. If you’ve applied wax in the recent past (LINK)see our guide on how to remove car wax(/LINK) to make sure you’ve gotten everything stripped away. After washing make sure to let it completely dry before proceeding.

* Step #6: Using masking tape go around the edges of the bed and block the areas where you want the bed liner to stop. Take the extra time to make sure your tape is straight and exactly where you want it – Little details like these make the finished job look much cleaner and more professional.

* Step #7: Using either the scuffing pad supplied with your kit or some 150 grit sandpaper go over the entire interior of the truck bed, scuffing up the surface as much as you can. Be thorough in this – If the surface isn’t completely scuffed the liner will eventually peel away. If you don’t want to spend that much time scrubbing by hand an orbital sander is well-suited for this task, though you’ll still need to take care of corners and divots manually.

* Step #8: Lastly, we’ll need to give the bed a final wipe with acetone to clean away any remaining debris. Use shop towels for this, applying the acetone to a small area and letting it sit for a few moments before wiping away. As with the degreaser you should move in one direction for the wiping process, starting at the front of the truck bed and moving to the open end. Keep your towels clean and never use a side more than once; after you’ve finished let the bed dry for ten minutes before moving on.

Applying Roll-On Bed Liner

We recommend moving directly from your acetone wipe to the paint job to ensure a spotless painting surface; if for some reason you absolutely must wait any significant length of time between the two go back over your truck bed with a leaf blower before proceeding to remove any dust or dirt that might have settled in the meantime.

* Step #1: First, your supplies – You already have the bed liner painting kit (hopefully!), and you’ll also want to have a 1″ paint brush to go with it. Shop towels, rags, and a bucket of clean water are good ideas, as is some xylene for cleaning up spills. You’ll also want to wear some clothes and shoes you aren’t afraid to throw away after you’re done, and your safety goggles/ventilator mask as well. (LINK)Paint-on truck liner can be hazardous stuff(/LINK) so make sure to keep yourself, and your good clothes, safe. We also recommend doing this project outside; even with a mask it’s worth waiting for a nice, calm, sunny day to avoid dealing with a build up of nasty fumes, as polyurethane can be irritating to the skin.

* Step #2: Next you’ll need to mix your paint, using a paint mixer to thoroughly combine; if you bought a two-stage mix you’ll likely want a new container to pour them both into before stirring them up. If your paint needs to be thinned a bit you can add some of your xylene to the bucket as well, but don’t go beyond a 10% mixture.

* Step #3: Once the paint has been mixed you’re ready to begin. Start in the corners and dab along the seams/joints of the truck bed, applying here with your paint brush. Try to treat your brush more like a sponge, and avoid using a stroking motion; this will help make sure the liner has a uniform texture once dried.

* Step #4: After you’ve coated the corner bits take your paint roller and begin applying the paint along the large panels, starting at the top of the sides and working your way down to the bottom of the bed. Take any areas that may look “clumped” and smooth them out a bit with your brush, using the same dabbing motion as before. When you are done with the first coat go back and quickly add a second thin coating along the edges of your masking tape, as this will help prevent tearing when you remove them.

* Step #5: Now that you’re done with coat number one it’s time to let it dry, but not too much – Your specific paint kit should have directions on how long to wait between coats (anywhere from 1 to 6 hours) and it is important not to go past that time frame. If you wait too long before applying the second coat it may not properly bond to the previous layer of paint, and I likely don’t have to tell you why that’s not a good thing. Just make sure the first coat no longer feels “tacky” to the touch and you’re ready to proceed.

* Step #6: Your second coat should go much like the first, starting at the edges and then working from the top down to the bed. Once completed wait for roughly thirty minutes before gently removing the masking tape; doing this while the paint is still tacky and wet will help the lines look more natural.

And that is it! You are now done lining the bed of your truck. This will need to set up and cure for quite some time before being ready to use – A minimum of 24 hours is recommended for light use and preferably a minimum of 72 hours before you start throwing in any heavy loads; expect these times to be longer if you live in a particular cold or humid climate.

It may not be the quickest process in the world but with just a little know-how, some basic supplies, and a helping of elbow grease, we hope we’ve shown you how to protect your truck bed and save a little extra cash at the same time. Still not sure if this is the right solution for you? Make sure to check out our article on the advantages & disadvantages of bed liner paint jobs to see if a painted bed liner makes sense for your needs.

The post How to Paint Your Truck with Raptor Liner at Home appeared first on ShedHeads.

P21s Carnauba Paste Wax: The Ultimate Paste Wax of 2020

If you’ve been searching around to find the perfect car wax, you’ve undoubtedly come across P21s in your search. They make some of the best car detailing products on the market, and their Carnauba Paste waxes are the perfect example of that. 

About the Company

P21s has been manufacturing car care products since the 80s, with a focus and commitment to world class quality. Their mission has been (and still is) to produce auto care products that are “factory approved,” made for professionals and hobbyist alike. Due to their high quality products, they’re not the most affordable product out there – but like most things, you get what you pay for. Sure, you can spend $15 on some wax from a no-name company, but you’ll likely not be very pleased with the lackluster shine and durability. P21s may be a bit more expensive, but you’re getting a quality wax that actually works. 

P21s Carnauba Paste Wax

P21s’ Paste wax formula was specifically designed for two main objectives: avoid streaks after rub out, and and to avoid white stains on plastic and rubber. This is a common issue with many paste waxes on the market, so being able to pull this off is a great success. Let’s get more in-depth with P21s Paste Wax.

Formula

P21s is a carnauba wax. For those that don’t know, carnauba wax is harvested from Brazilian palm trees. Specifically, P21s uses #1 grade Brazilian Carnauba, so you know it’s the good stuff. There’s no dyes, perfumes or other aroma additives, just pure, unadulterated natural wax. 

Carnauba is widely considered as the premium raw material for car waxes for a few reasons, but the main reason is the superior shine that can be achieved using carnauba.

Because carnauba is actually brittle on its own, P21s also contains some beeswax, making the wax more malleable and easily applied. It also contributes to the water beading properties.

Application

One of the goals of P21s when developing this wax was to make it very easy to apply. The beeswax in the paste contributes to the ease of use, making it a softer, more malleable consistency.

When applying, you want to make sure your car has been washed thoroughly and doesn’t have anything on it that could scratch your surface.  

The wax is so smooth, you need almost zero pressure to apply the wax to your surface. It’s not oily, but it does have a slightly buttery consistency, going on so smooth. Using the included applicator sponge is a good way to go.

You just pick up a bit of wax on your sponge and apply in a circular motion. Again, do not do this on a dirty vehicle, and if you drop your sponge, go get a new one or wash it thoroughly. You really only need one application, but you could do a second layer if so inclined.

Let it dry a bit – maybe 5 minutes – and then buff it off with a clean microfiber towel – which only needs the slightest amount of pressure, because again, the smooth consistency is so easy to buff out. Again, if you drop your towel, get a new one!

You don’t necessarily want to do the plastic or rubber components of your vehicle, but if you do, you don’t need to worry about those white streaks or marks with P21s.

Shine & Performance

So, it’s easy to apply and buff out, but how does it perform? Well, thanks to the Carnauba wax, P21s paste wax makes a brilliant shine. It really is an amazing product that you have to see for yourself to fully appreciate.

It nourishes clear coats and produces a mirror like shine. Here’s an example on a black car from a reader:

It’s also got amazing beading qualities, as you can see below, and again, there’s no issues with applying to plastic or rubber, with no streaks visible after buffing. 

Carnauba waxes are known to not last quite as long as synthetic waxes/sealants, but you should see the results from this was for up to 6 months with no problems. Which is pretty dang good durability. It doesn’t take long to apply, so even if you have to do it twice a year, that’s not too bad! 

Conclusion: P21s Wax

Overall, P21s paste wax delivers on all accounts, making it a choice that you won’t be disappointed with. The only possible downside we can see with this wax is the price point. But again, this is a premium product, with premium results, so it’s only fitting. It’s not just another knock off cheapo product you see on the shelves, it’s a world class product with world class results. 

Looking forward to hearing about your experiences with this awesome wax!

The post P21s Car Wax Review – The Ultimate Carnauba Paste Wax of 2020 appeared first on ShedHeads.

There is a fine line between better living through chemistry and actively harming your body. While advancements in science and technology have brought all sorts of miraculous products to our shelves sometimes it’s good to be reminded of just how safe – or unsafe – some of these items can be. In this post we’re going to be talking about Raptor Liner and other spray-based truck liner paints, and going over some of the finer points on how to make sure you stay healthy and safe while using them.

The Dangers of Bed Liner Paint

There is a wide world of choices available when it comes to lining the bed of your truck, but more and more common are painted options. Truck bed liner paints (such as Raptor Liner) are comprised of a multitude of chemicals, some of which can be highly toxic. Methylene diphenyl isocyanate (also known as MDI) is a common chemical compound included in many truck bed liner paints, including Raptor Liner.

Exposure to isocyanate, often found in the polyurethane used in truck liner paint, can cause harmful rashes, headaches, nausea, asthma, and has even been linked to at least one death since 2006. The exposure does not need to be direct, either – Simply being around the fumes put out by polyurethane-based paints can cause severe respiratory and skin conditions. Long-term exposure in childhood has been linked to much higher likelihoods of developing asthma and eczema, and can cause chronic migraines and lung infections over time. Needless to say, all unpleasant stuff.

These chemicals are particularly hazardous in the case of spray-on liner paint as they are actively being aerosolized into the air. Breathing these in is impossible to avoid during application unless the proper safety gear is worn, making precautions necessary for anyone looking to put a coat of bed liner on their vehicle.

Proper Safety When Applying Raptor Liner or Other Liner Paints

Observing the right safety regulations when applying truck liner paints is an absolute must, and unfortunately just having a few fans around for ventilation won’t quite cut it.

Any truck liner paints, spray or roll-on, should be applied in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors on a day with no wind. The fumes from truck bed liner paint can cause irritation to the skin even without being breathed in, making proper clothing also a must; your skin should be covered as much as possible – including the hands, arms, neck and feet – and any bare areas that are exposed to the paint should be washed immediately thereafter.

It should go without saying that safety goggles are a complete necessity for this job; getting grit-filled polyurethane in your eyeball isn’t typically known as “a good time” and can happen more easily than you think. Likewise needed is a ventilation mask – Many kits, such as Raptor Liner, will come with a ventilation mask included; if not, take the extra time and cash to pick one up before you get started, as even with ventilation you’ll still be getting a hefty dose of fumes constantly spewing upward from directly below your face.

Even after finishing you should still try to keep the vehicle either outdoors or in an extremely well-ventilated area: As polyurethane dries and cures it still gives off harmful fumes, and those fumes can take anywhere from days to weeks to fully disappear – Fumes that you could be exposing your family, pets and other loved ones to if you choose to keep a freshly-lined truck indoors.

Final Thoughts & Tips

The question of whether or not Raptor Liner and similar products are safe is easy to answer: They are not. But much like any other hazardous chemical we bring into our homes, such as bleach or hydrogen peroxide, safety in use is just a matter of precaution. Remember these handy tips:

* Wear a mask & goggles

* Cover your skin and stay in a ventilated space

* Try not to breathe errant fumes, even after the painting job is done

* Avoid physical contact and immediately clean any skin that has had exposure

* Clothing that has been contaminated should be discarded after finishing and skin should be washed with soap and water, even if not directly exposed

* Keep the vehicle outside after painting for as long as possible, as fumes will still be emitted for up to several weeks after the work is complete

Planning to use raptor liner?

Following these simple tips can help make sure your experience with applying a bed liner paint – Raptor Liner or otherwise – is a safe one. Once you think you’re ready to begin, head over to our simple guide on painting your truck bed with liner for tips and information on where to go next.

The post Safety of Raptor Liner and other Spray on Bed Liners appeared first on ShedHeads.

There are a multitude of ways to line the bed of your truck, from the classic option of wood slats (don’t do this) to fancy spray-on liners. Each has their advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right truck bed solution for your needs can be tricky. Don’t worry though – We’ve got you covered with our basic primer. Let’s get into it.

 Types of Bed Liners & Bed Liner Paint

Bed liners typically come in one of four styles: Either a hard, pre-molded shell, a custom-fitted polyester fiber “rug”, a disposable rubber mat, or as a form of paint. The hard molded covers are often thick and durable, excellent at shock absorption, but can be expensive for well-made options, with cheaper versions often failing at strength and traction. Additionally they must be properly installed, otherwise water can become trapped underneath the surface leading to a rusted-out bed underneath the plastic.

Rubber mats have many of the same properties as the molded liners but without the durability, and trapped water can be a much more prominent issue; they are usually useful purely for their low cost and disposability. Polyester fiber & polypropylene bed rugs are molded directly onto the bed and rarely have problems with water but they lack in durability and often can’t stand up to heavy, rough loads.

A painted truck bed liner can be done easily at home or by using a professional service. Professional spray paint jobs tend to be thicker and of higher quality than low-end home paint jobs but get expensive quickly.

Painting your truck’s bed with liner at home is a great option price-wise but does take time, patience and a well-ventilated area. When looking for a paint-on bed liner for use at home there are a multitude of products available – The paint itself will usually be either water-based or contain some fashion of solvent, and may come in either a one-stage or two-stage (IE: mix-it-yourself) variety. All contain some fashion of gritty material for skid resistance but may also include rubberized bits for additional resistance to impacts.

Water-based & single-stage solvent paints are cheaper but two-stage liner is more durable, typically sets thicker, and comes with higher quality grit/rubber bits for traction. We recommend viewing this as a good place to spend a little extra cash on a higher-end product, as the results will be noticeable and potentially save you from having to reapply the liner in the future.

Most kits will come with the needed paint and also a roller for application. You can use your own paint rollers if you desire but the included rollers are typically designed for this task and can make the process of painting go more smoothly. Some also come with a scouring pad for scuffing up the bed, which can save you a few extra dollars on sandpaper as a small bonus.

Raptor Liner Kits

If you’re doing this at home, we highly recommend checkout out one of our raptor liner kits which we’ve reviewed in our detailed guide. Check it out if you want to know which one to buy.

Paint-On Bed Liner Pros

The best advantage of a painted bed liner is that it is completely flush with the bed of your truck – No gaps for moisture to leak in, no chance of it cracking or shattering underneath a tough blow. (LINK)Assuming the liner has been applied properly(/LINK) it should last a lifetime, or at least the lifetime of the vehicle.

Paint-on bed liners are often less slippery and have better traction than molded liners, even some high-end models. Plastics can wear down and have their gripping surfaces eroded over time, which is less likely with a grit-and-rubber infused paint applied directly to the truck’s surface. And, due to it being paint, you can choose to attach it to areas where pre-molded plastics wouldn’t go, such as a fender or the vehicle’s bumper.

Cost-wise doing your own paint job at home is one of the cheapest options available and with one of the better results; buying a home kit is often magnitudes cheaper than having the work done professionally, and easily beats out options such as pre-molded liners. If you’re looking to protect your truck and save cash at the same time, this method is hard to top.

Paint-On Bed Liner Cons

The first and most important con: This is 100% permanent. If you are in any doubt about painting your truck bed with a liner the time to stop is before you begin that paint job – Painted bed liners cannot be removed, and even if they are somehow stripped away your vehicle’s original paint will no longer be present, plus any corrosion warranties your truck might have are completely invalidated.

While painting your truck’s bed at home isn’t an expert-level task (LINK)it does require considerable preparation and cleaning to get the job done properly(/LINK); expect to take a full day to complete the process, and that’s not including the final drying time. And if you don’t think you have the time to devote to doing it properly? Again, this is the time to stop – Doing a halfway job on your truck’s bed liner will lead to it flaking off and falling apart at absolute best. If undertaking this task on your own make sure you have the time to do it right.

While bed liner paint is a cheaper option and can help with some shock absorption it will not protect against dents and dings from heavy cargo; if you’re tossing cinder blocks in the back of your truck day in and day out a plastic molded liner might be a better option for you. There are also some safety concerns with applying painted bed liners you might want to be aware about before making your decision.

The Wrap Up

Long story short there are advantages and disadvantages to any type of truck liner you choose, and the best one for you will depend heavily on how you use your truck on a day-to-day basis. We hope our guide to the various pros and cons has helped you decide what sort of bed liner or bed liner paint is right for you!

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