3rd March 2024
Classic car ownership is less than straightforward. Some of us ended up with our pride and joy through chance, others after a long hunt for the perfect example and some always knew that one day she would be ours. Whatever your story, it’s probable that there’s emotion involved and you want the very best for her or them.
Here at Coverzone we understand well that you are a true vehicle enthusiast because you have invested in car protection and you want your car to receive the best level of protection possible.
Although car covers may seem like a simple product, today’s high tech covers are the result of many years of development and therefore there are do’s and don’ts listed on the comprehensive instructions supplied with each type of cover. These covers require proper maintenance to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. So, in this blog post we will be discussing the ultimate guide to car cover maintenance, with a focus on Outdoor covers produced by Coverzone. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Coverzone has become the trusted brand for car protection and we will be sharing our expert tips and tricks to help you keep your cover in top condition.
Clean
The first key point to consider when maintaining your car cover is regular cleaning. Dust, dirt, and other debris can accumulate on the cover over time, causing damage to the fabric and reducing its effectiveness. Coverzone recommends using a mild soap and water solution to clean the cover, avoiding harsh chemicals that can strip the fabric and remove the waterproof protective coating.
Firstly, rinse the cover either whilst fitted to the car or whilst hung on a washing line. This will remove the worst debris and dirt particles before the wash process. Use a hose taking care to reduce the pressure to a steady stream that is more than a trickle but not pressurised. Soap and water such as a mild car wash shampoo (without wax) or non biological clothes wash liquid suitably diluted in warm water can be applied by sponge while the cover is on the car and then rinsed thoroughly with the hose, again non-pressurised. Do not scrub the cover hard as this may weaken the outer layer and force the dirt to become ingrained. Areas of bird lime or splashed mud should be moistened and then left for 10 minutes to soften before gentle, thorough cleaning as leaving any residue of these can eat into the fabric.
Once the cover has been cleaned it should be hung on a washing line where the air can dry both inside and outside surfaces. Stains on inner areas that have become marked by brake dust in the wheel areas may be difficult to remove but will not affect the performance of the cover.
It is essential to let the cover air dry completely before storing it or re-using it to prevent mould and mildew growth.
Store
Proper storage is another crucial aspect of car cover maintenance. When not in use, it is essential to store your cover in its original zipped storage bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You should note that the storage bag is non-breathable and waterproof to stop your cover from absorbing damp so the cover should be completely dry before being folded into the bag.
The best method of folding is to place the cover on the car, fold each side panel onto the roof and bonnet in turn, fold once more each side so that you have a long sausage of fabric running along the centre of the entire vehicle. Now stand at the front of the car and tightly roll the fabric towards you and place the rolled cover directly in the storage bag and zip it closed. It is also essential to avoid storing the cover in a damp or humid environment as this can lead to mould growth and damage to the fabric.
Proper Usage
Lastly, to extend the lifespan of your car cover, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions that are supplied with the cover and use the cover only for its intended purpose.
If you have lost your instructions we will email you a copy upon request.
Coverzone outdoor car covers are obviously designed for outdoor use but some of these can be used as an indoor dust cover. Please check the instructions supplied to ensure that the cover that you bought is breathable and therefore suitable for indoor use.
Coverzone also offer indoor covers for those who need to protect their vehicles whilst in storage. These covers are only suitable for use indoors in dry storage areas and should not be used outdoors. Using the cover for activities other than its intended use can cause damage to the cover and the vehicle and void the warranty.
By following our advice, you can ensure that your car and cover remains in top condition and provides maximum protection for your vehicle for years to come.
If the car is parked outdoors, it is important to choose a parking position that is as sheltered as possible. Strong sunshine and high winds will ultimately damage or destroy your cover so your choice of parking position will be key to determining the lifespan of the cover. If possible choose a position that is shaded from the hottest sunshine of the day and away from windy corners near buildings. You may find that parking your car in a particular direction reduces buffeting from the wind which in turn will reduce wear on the cover. Remember not to cover a car that is still warm to touch from sitting in the sunshine on a hot day as this will also extend the life of the cover.
Maintain
Inspect your for any tears or damage on a regular basis is crucial. Over time, covers may develop tears or wear thin in places and this is normal due to wear and tear. It is important to promptly repair any damage to prevent them from getting bigger and compromising the effectiveness of the cover. Coverzone produce outdoor cover repair patch kits. These comprise of 3x inner and 3 outer repair patches approx 18cms square that are supplied with self adhesive backing. You should fit an inner and outer patch to the same hole or tear taking care to match the fabric pattern of the patch to the outer or inner pattern of the cover. By fitting the patches both inside and outside, the adhesive on the patch will bond together making a permanent repair. For best results, you should repair your cover when it is completely dry and in temperatures of 20C plus, so in winter, dry it and repair it indoors in the warm!
In conclusion, maintaining a bespoke car cover requires regular cleaning, proper storage, inspecting for damage and when severe storms are forecast it will be best to remove the cover or secure it with additional overbody straps. If structural damage can occur in bad weather to your house and fences it’s reasonable to conclude that a fabric cover may become damaged as well. By following these key considerations you can ensure the durability and effectiveness of your tailored car cover and provide the best protection for your vehicle.
Coverzone are leading manufacturers and suppliers of fitted vehicle covers. All our covers are designed in our factory in the West Midlands and shipped from our West Sussex headquarters. We understand why having proper covers for those precious vehicles should never be overlooked regardless of age or condition...so come and visit us today at www.cover-zone.com or call on 01903 764689. Our knowledgeable staff would love nothing more than to help make sure that your special something looks pristine all year round whatever Mother Nature throws your way!
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