5 Tips to Help You Choose the Best Car Cover for Outdoor Storage

A car cover can be defined as a product that is used in covering a car and protecting the vehicle from elements of nature such as wind, rain, and dust. It is mostly used when a car has not been in use for a specified period and the car needs to look dirt less. When a car has not been in use, it becomes prone to external conditions thus the need for a car cover.

There are a few tips to help you in choosing a car cover. They include:

1. Climatic conditions

It is essential for a person to prepare for all kinds of weather when choosing a car cover for outdoor storage. People who live in areas that are too windy should consider covers that are tie downs so that they can prevent the car from being blown away. In areas that have heavy snow, a person should purchase a car cover that will prevent moisture from reaching the paints car.

Locations that have mild weather and are sunny will require an individual to buy a car cover that has reliable protection from the suns UV rays. The cover should be able to offer reflective features to protect the car against overheating as well as photodegradation. When a car is exposed to sunlight for an extended period, the paint might start to fade hence the need for a cover.

2. Material of the car cover

Materials that are strong and durable are beneficial when it comes to scratch protection. You should choose materials that are water-resistant to allow the material to be able to dry in case of contact with moisture. When the cover becomes wet, it is important to shake it a bit to remove water from it thus preventing moisture from reaching the car.

Materials that are strong also prevent dust from entering the car hence the car remains clean. A suitable fabric for car covers is one that provides protection against tree sap, bird droppings as well as salt air and is breathable to allow heat and moisture to escape.

There is also another kind of material that is thin and waterproof. This fabric protects the car by preventing contact of water with the car. The structure should allow condensation to take place so that the car remains dry. Most of these cover have ultraviolet screens that are woven into them to help them in withstanding harsh climate such as sunlight degradation.

There is also another type of material that is 100% cotton. These materials are not water resistant. Therefore, it is advisable not to use them outside for an extended period. If a person uses his car frequently, then this type of material is recommended to them since it is light and convenient to use.  It is essential to research different types of materials to determine which are appropriate for your outdoor storage needs. There are different types of fabrics of car covers. Below are the kinds of fabrics available:

• Woven

The woven material is the most durable and most reliable fabric. This fabric is made using the latest technology that’s why it is strong. This fabric is suitable to use against UV light when the car is outside and exposed to sunlight. This woven fabric is preferred since it’s easy to fold as well as store when it is not being used.

• Wrap knit

This fabric is made using flat knitting machines. It is made up of polyester or nylon material, so it becomes easy to fold and store. Wrap knit comes in different density and size as well as design.

• Non-woven fabric

This fabric is thicker compared to woven material since it is made up of polymer material. Non-woven fabrics are not durable and are also not as strong as woven fabric. Since these materials are thick, they provide excellent abrasion resistance. It also has some useful inherent features which come in handy when protecting the car from water, sunlight, and mildew.  

3. Selecting a suitable color

Choosing an appropriate fabric color is crucial since it has vital importance for outdoor protection. In areas with a warm or sunny climate, lighter shades of covers are preferable. If the car is of a lighter color, then a light colored sheet is suitable since bright colors may bleed on the car under certain conditions. If a person wants a stylish look, then it is recommended that they choose light and vibrant colors such as blue, red, mustard or yellow to compliment the car’s finish.

4. Frequency of using and storage of the car

If the car is used on a daily basis, then it is recommended to choose a cover that is light in weight to make it easy when it comes to folding and storing it hence making work more manageable. A light covering is effective in protecting the car against mild weather conditions, and it is also efficient since it can fit in a sleeping bag.

If the car is parked outside where there are children, then a thicker cover is recommended since it protects the car from unnecessary scratches.

5. A cover that is theft deterrent

Car covers can sometimes keep thieves away since it takes a lot of time in getting into the car. It is also advisable to add a lock and cable underneath the cover to prevent the cover itself from being stolen. A car cover also covers the wheels of the car thus protecting them from being stolen or vandalized.  A cover can also protect valuables that are left in the car such as laptops, phones as well as significant documents.

Conclusion

It is vital to protect your car by purchasing a car cover since it will keep the car new and clean just like it looked when it was in the showroom. When a person covers his car, he is protecting it against harsh climatic conditions such as rain, wind, and snow. Covering a car also ensures that the paint does not fade since it creates a protective shield against weather conditions. It is essential to choose a car cover that will meet an individual’s needs.