How to protect your car from the elements

I bet you like to snuggle in a big, soft blanket at the end of the day, don’t you? Your precious automobile deserves the same treatment, don’t you agree?  Car covers have been around for a long time, almost as long as automobiles themselves. Now sure, they have changed a lot since then, manufacturers produce them tailor-made and use very different materials, it can be a waterproof cover or a cover for from lighter materials for every-day use. But how to choose the right one for your needs?  There are several key points to consider, before making the decision.

1. Where do you park it?

Naturally, the first question is paramount. Do you park your car outside, or in the garage? If you park it in the garage, you might still want a cover to protect your precious from dust, pets, particularly active children, etc. All you’ll need is a lightweight cover, that folds easily, doesn’t give you grief every time you use it, and doesn’t delay you while you’re in a hurry. All the way, protecting the car and giving you peace of mind. 

If you park your car outside, without a garage, the factors that can harm the paint finish are much greater. Rain, snow, dust, dirt, neighbour kids, random bikes, animals, etc. For each one of these factors, you’ll need a tougher cover, for sure. And it brings us to another point of discussion with a smooth transition into the next question.

2. What’s the weather like in your region?

Mother nature throws many surprises our way and it’s hard to protect ourselves and our possessions against all of them. Even the air, with all the particles of dust and different chemicals, can be harmful. If you live by the shore, the salty air will definitely be a factor and you need a thicker cover for your darling. Now, given that there can be various levels of precipitations, we have another question. Do you need a waterproof cover?  This is trickier than you’d expect. Fist of all, the way we understand “waterproof” is mainly creating a barrier from the outside water getting in. But what about the humidity accumulating on the inside, that needs a way out? The built-up water particles can be just as harmful and damaging to you paint. That’s why you’ll need a cover with a fabric breathable enough to let the moisture out as well.  

When it comes to snow, a thick cover is your friend. This is where waterproof is a safe bet. Invest in a thicker cover if you live in an area that gets a lot of snow throughout the year and you won’t regret it. Just make sure the cover fits perfectly and is tailor-made for your vehicle model. 

When it comes to milder weather, don’t let your guards down. Even if you don’t get inches of snow and rain, you still have dust, wind, and mechanical damaging factors. Wind and dust create micro-scratches on the surface, that your beautiful iron horse doesn’t need. So even if the weather conditions are quite mild, you might want to use a light cover. 

Now is the time to raise another important question: 

3. Is it your every-day car?

Naturally, your every-day commute vehicle can’t be covered up to extent used for a “resting” car. If you use it every morning to get to work, you need a very lightweight cover, which can also be somewhat waterproof but will be light enough not to cause hassle every morning. If you purchase a thick, heavy cover, sooner or later you’ll find yourself not bothering with it at all. So don’t push it! Be realistic and get something you’ll actually use. 

If, on the other hand, you are purchasing a cover for a car that you use sporadically, invest well and get a cover that will protect it from long-term exposure to everything mentioned above. Again, be careful and don’t chase the “100% waterproof” label. Just make sure the cover is thick and breathable enough and that it fits your car like a glove.  

Keep these 3 questions in mind before making a decision and keep your vehicle snuggly protected! Be safe, above all, and good luck on the road!