If you are one of those individuals who are highly obsessed with their vehicle, then investing in a proper car Cover is one of the reliable ways to protect your investment and keep it looking showroom new. Car covers are necessary not only outdoors but also inside the garage.
Although investing in a good cover is essential, there are specifics that users need to consider before choosing a cover. Unfortunately, most users ignore these details and settle for the cheapest cover that they can find out there. We understand that during these tough economic times it is easy to be “penny wise and dollar foolish.” But why spare a few bucks and end up with a cover that doesn’t fit well or doesn’t offer enough protection for your car. Users who spend a little more on covers report that their covers last for many years and also deliver all that they promise to deliver.
Cover types
There are two types of vehicle covers in the market; indoor and outdoor covers. The requirements for choosing outdoor covers are a bit strict. This is because outdoor covers protect your car from different weather conditions (sunrays, heavy rain, snow, etc.). On the other hand, the requirements for choosing indoor covers are less strict.
Features to look for when choosing an outdoor car cover
1. Dust proof
One of the essential requirements for an outdoor cover is to protect your car from dirt and dust contaminating the exterior paintwork. To ensure good dust protection properties, choose a breathable cover of multilayer construction.
2. UV- resistant
It is crucial to guard your ride against UV light when not in use. These rays can damage your ride (rubber seals may dry out, and tires may perish). Also, your paint job might fade or get ruined. Choose a cover that has the potential to filter out the UV light. A light color such as white or silver will reflect the sun’s rays, protecting your car from the rays. A dark color, on the other hand, will absorb UV rays leading to a buildup of heat.
3. Straps to secure
A cover with no proper straps may move in the wind and as a result, chafe your paintwork. To help prevent this, look for a cover that has straps which sling below the vehicle (in at least two places) to securely clutch the cover in place. Also, choose a cover that has an elasticized hem to the rear and front.
4. Weatherproof
An outdoor vehicle cover should be made from fabrics that can shed water as soon as it hits the cover. This ensures that your car stays dry and free from the acidic rain that can be detrimental to the outer surface of your car.
Even though most cars have a protective coating to help guard against hazards like corrosive rain, over time the coating can wear off leaving your car’s outer surface vulnerable to corrosion.
5. Durable
Since outdoor covers are exposed to some of the harshest conditions, it is important to choose a durable cover. One that will withstand the harsh outdoor weather conditions for long without degrading. You will find that a quality cover will have much better warranty compared to a cheap one. Therefore, be ready to spend more if you are planning to buy a cover that will protect your investment for several years.
6. Easy care
This is also another important feature to consider when it comes to car protection. You need a cover made from a material that is easy to take care of (can be washed easily in the washing machine).
Features to look for when choosing an indoor car cover
1. Finish-pampering
A car cover is essential even if you keep you car indoors.
When choosing an indoor cover, pay attention to the fabric used on the inside part of the cover. Indoor covers often provide a soft, silky and non-abrasive lining to pamper your vehicle’s finish. This protects the paintwork from scratches.
2. Mildew/Rot resistant
Regrettably, even if you store your car indoors, it is prone to water damage. Our garages usually lack proper aeration making them a breeding ground for condensation. A breathable cover will dispel moisture that gets trapped between your vehicle and the fabric. The dispelled condensation that settles on the exterior of the cover can lead to the formation of mildew.
Mildew may make the cover to rot hence compromising its protection. A good indoor cover is treated to resist rot, therefore, can withstand the effects of moisture.
3. Dust-blocking
Your car’s paint is about 0.006 inches thick. This means that when debris settles on your paint, it can turn abrasive and cause minute scratches on the paint. The process is usually hard to notice making the outcome unfavorable since you will have to spend thousands to repair the damage.
These covers are designed to keep dust away from the surface of your car and keep the paint looking great. Pay attention to this feature when looking for an indoor cover to avoid costly repairs.
4. Breathable
This is also one of the important features to look for when choosing car covers. A breathable cover will allow air and moisture to flow freely through their fabric. This protects your car from the adverse effects caused by heat and moisture.
5. Good fitting
A well fitting cover looks good. Additionally, a well fitting cover is functional and allows sufficient air circulation beneath the cover. It is not wise to settle for tight fitting or loosely fitting covers as they will reduce air circulation beneath the cover and allow dust to filter through, respectively.
This is not a good example of a good fitting car cover.
Your car is one of your most prized assets; you need to take care of it and provide it with all the car protection it needs. Unprotected paintwork can reduce your car’s resale value and cost you thousands in repair costs. Therefore, you need to protect your vehicle and wallet by investing in a proper cover that will protect your car from elements or factors that may induce unsightly dings, dents, and scratches to it.
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