If you have a garage, protecting your car from the winter weather is easy. If you don’t though, you may be looking for other ways to keep your vehicle safe from the snow, hail, rain, and other issues. There are some solutions, however, that can keep your car protected.
Put in a Carport
One option is to buy a carport. These structures are typically made from metal and are freestanding, although there are some that are designed to attach to the side of your house. Unlike a garage, a carport is typically open on all the sides, front, and back, so it doesn’t protect your vehicle from animals, extreme temperatures, or from thieves. However, it does protect it from most precipitation. If there are high winds involved, it is possible for hail to blow under the carport. Limbs and other debris could also be blown in. However, the protection a carport provides is better than no protection at all, and it will certain protect your vehicle from many types of damage.
Do note, however, that if you live in a neighborhood with a homeowner’s association, carports may be forbidden. Be certain to check your local HOA bylaws before you purchase a carport. Also keep in mind that carports aren’t necessarily the ugly, metal structures they once were. There are a number of carports available today that are quite elegant and will fit in with the overall style of your home.
Use a Car Cover
A car cover is similar to a large tarp or a bag. It’s made out of weather-resistant material and covers your entire car. You pull the cover down all the way to the tires. Many car covers are designed to hook around the bottom of your car’s body so high winds won’t pull it off. Many also have straps that help hold the cover in place. Car covers are available in a wide range of sizes and for many different vehicle styles.
Like carports, car covers are designed to protect your vehicle from the rain, snow, and ice. The fabric they are made out of is very durable, though it won’t protect your car against heavy debris. Again, though, having a car cover is better than nothing. During large storms, you may even want to place a car cover over a vehicle parked under a carport to double your protection.
Garage Sheds
If you can’t afford to build on a garage, you may want to consider a pre-fabricated shed that is large enough for a vehicle. These sheds typically have large roll-up or open-out doors that you can drive your vehicle through. They can be placed in your backyard if you don’t have space next to your home. All you need is a way of driving your car into the backyard and into the shed.
Watch Where You Park
Being careful about where you park doesn’t necessarily add protection to your vehicle, but it can be helpful in avoiding taking unnecessary risks. Parking under trees, for example, leaves your car open to being hit by various debris. If you’ve parked under a tree during a storm or high winds, limbs could fall onto your car.
Add a Layer of Wax
Wax can actually help protect your car, too. Waxing your vehicle helps remove residue left by insects, and it adds a layer of protection that will keep rain and other precipitation from clinging to your car. It’s an easy way of adding some protection, too, since you only need to wax your car about every three months depending on the brand of wax used.
With these tips in mind, you can protect your car from the elements and other damage. Using several of them in combination is a great way of reducing damage to your vehicle and maintaining its looks.