As winter approaches in Pennsylvania, many vehicle owners prepare for the colder months. Snow, ice, and salt can wreak havoc on your car’s exterior, leading to rust and long-term damage. Applying ceramic coatings is one of the best ways to protect your vehicle from those things.
In this blog, we’ll explore how Pennsylvania winters impact your vehicle and how ceramic coatings can protect your car. Keep reading on!
How does Pennsylvania winter affect your vehicle?
Winter weather in Pennsylvania can be particularly tough on vehicles. The combination of freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and road salt creates a perfect storm that can significantly damage your car.
Paint and body damage from road salt
Road salt is essential for melting ice on Pennsylvania’s roads, but it’s highly corrosive to your car. Salt can stick to your vehicle’s surface, penetrate the paint, and lead to rust, particularly in areas where moisture accumulates.
Deterioration of undercarriage components
Your car’s undercarriage is particularly vulnerable to winter damage. Road salt, slush, and ice can accumulate in the underbody, leading to corrosion of vital components like the exhaust system, brakes, and suspension parts.
Battery drain from cold temperatures
Cold weather can significantly reduce your car battery’s performance. Lower temperatures slow down the chemical reactions that generate power, making it harder for your battery to start your vehicle.
Cold temperatures affecting paint elasticity
Cold weather can make your car’s paint more brittle and less elastic, making it more susceptible to chipping and cracking when struck by debris or even during washing.
One of the best ways to protect your car in winter is by applying ceramic coatings
Why you should get ceramic coatings before the cold months
Ceramic coatings offer a robust shield for your vehicle against the harsh winter elements. Here’s why applying ceramic coatings before winter can be one of the best decisions you can make for your car:
Enhanced protection against salt and chemicals
Ceramic coatings provide a strong, hydrophobic layer on your car’s surface, preventing road salt, deicing agents, and other chemicals from adhering to the paint. This layer helps to minimize the risk of corrosion and paint damage, keeping your car looking newer for longer.
Easier cleaning and maintenance
Winter grime, snow, and salt can quickly make your car dirty. With ceramic coatings, your car becomes much easier to clean. The hydrophobic properties of the coating mean that water, dirt, and contaminants slide off the surface more easily, reducing the effort required to maintain a clean vehicle during winter.
Increased resistance to swirl marks
While not entirely guaranteed, ceramic coatings do offer an added layer of protection against swirl marks, which can be particularly beneficial in winter conditions where ice and debris are more prevalent.
Long-lasting protection
Unlike traditional waxes and sealants that can wear off after a few washes, ceramic coatings are more durable and can last several years with proper maintenance. This long-term protection ensures your car is safeguarded not just for one winter but for many winters to come.
Considerations when applying ceramic coatings in low temperatures
While the benefits of ceramic coatings are clear, it’s important to consider the conditions under which they are applied, especially as temperatures drop.
The ideal temperature for application
Ceramic coatings have an ideal application temperature range, usually between 50°F (10°C) and 77°F (25°C). Applying the coating outside this range can affect its curing process, potentially leading to suboptimal results. In colder temperatures, the coating may take longer to cure, and there’s a higher risk of improper bonding to the paint surface.
Humidity levels
High winter humidity can interfere with the coating’s curing process, potentially causing streaks or hazing. A dry, well-ventilated environment is crucial for optimal results.
Professional application recommended
Given the complexities of applying ceramic coatings at low temperatures, it’s highly recommended that professionals like Steel City Auto Spa apply the coating. We ensure proper application and optimal conditions, even when temperatures drop.
Winter-specific products
Some ceramic coatings, like System X or Ceramic Pro, are formulated specifically for cold-weather applications. These products may contain additives that help them cure effectively in lower temperatures, making them ideal for winter applications.
Store your car in a garage or under a protective cover for a few days after ceramic-coated
Prepare your car for the snow with ceramic coatings service at Steel City Auto Spa
Prepare your car for the snow this winter with a high-quality ceramic coatings service from Steel City Auto Spa. We specialize in applying high-quality ceramic coatings that provide exceptional protection against snow, ice, salt, and other winter hazards.
Our professional technicians will ensure a flawless application, leaving your car with a stunning shine and a layer of defense during the cold months. Don’t wait until winter hits – get your car protected today! Call us at 412-732-7828 or visit us at 533 Rochester Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15237, to schedule your ceramic coatings service.