Common Hazards For Your Car's Paint

No matter what lengths you go to in order to protect your car's paint from damage, there are some threats out there that are potentially unavoidable. These threats can cause your car's paint to flake, fade, deteriorate, and discolor. Understanding some of the most common issues that can damage your paint will help you to protect your car. 

Water

It seems strange to think that water can damage your car's paint, but it can. If you don't dry your car properly after you wash it, or after a rainfall, the water on the car's surface will evaporate. As it does, the mineral content in the water is left behind on the paint's surface. That can leave visible spots and discoloration on your paint, potentially leading to deterioration depending on the concentration of the minerals.

As a result, you need to be sure that you dry your car after every wash or rain. Park your car in a garage when you're not driving it and avoid the sprinklers and other sources of water whenever possible. Keep some microfiber cloths in your car to wipe the surface as needed. You can remove existing water spots using a clay bar. Rub the bar on the spots to remove them. 

Birds

Birds are nearly unavoidable in the environment. Unfortunately, they are also a threat to your car's paint. Bird waste contains a high level of acid. That means that bird droppings on your car will eat away at the paint, leaving damaged, bare spots behind. You'll need to wash away bird droppings right away to protect your car from damage. If you do have bird droppings on your car, you'll have to wet sand the surface and then polish it to restore the appearance of your paint's finish.

Sunlight

The sun's rays are naturally destructive to car paint. The ultraviolet rays can cause not only fading but peeling, bubbling, and chipping as well. The longer your car's paint is exposed to the sun, the worse these problems can become. While you can't keep your car out of the sun all the time, you can take measures to minimize exposure. Park your car in a garage or carport whenever possible. Also, regularly apply a wax coating that includes an ultraviolet ray protectant. That way, you can shield your paint as best as possible to minimize damage.

These are a few of the most common things you need to think about when it comes to protecting your car's paint. Talk with an auto body shop like Lakeside Collision Kirkland today for more help.

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