As we're based in Wollongong, a lot of our regular clients live within a short distance of the beach. What a lot of seaside dwellers don't realise is just how important it is to have your car cleaned often if you live near or frequently travel to areas close by the ocean. Read on to find out why cleaning your car regularly is a MUST if you live near the beach. The reasons might surprise you!
Remove seabird droppings
Though this point doesn't just pertain to people who live by the sea (seabirds aren't the only ones that like to leave a mess on cars) it is still incredibly important. Bird droppings are acidic, meaning that they can stain a car's external paint job or even eat away at it and cause lasting damage if left unchecked.
Aside from this issue, it's not a great look when your pride and joy is covered in unsightly white markings. Bird droppings are also highly unhygienic.
We recommend cleaning bird droppings from your car as soon as possible to avoid permanent damage. Make sure to clean your car on a regular basis. This means you can do a quick spot clean every few days to remove any little surprises left by our flying friends.
Reduce the effects of sea salt and moisture in the air
When you live near the ocean, the air has a distinct salty smell. This is because there are trace amounts of salt that are carried into the air. These trace particles are often deposited on coastal houses, buildings and, yep, you guessed it...vehicles.
It takes a little while for the salt in the air to damage a car but if left for long enough, the salt that clings to vehicles builds up and eats away at paint and metal, leaving the way open for rust to form. This damage generally builds upon flat surfaces first where it's easier for salt to stick, and where rainwater sometimes pools, eg. the trunk and the hood.
It's much easier (and cheaper) to get into a regular car cleaning schedule than to have to pay to fix damage caused by salty sea air.
Stop saltwater damage
If you're a regular beachgoer, it's likely that you don't always have time to completely clean the saltwater from you or the items you take with you before jumping back into your car. You may even strap your surfboard to the racks of your car after using it.
Saltwater can cause lasting damage both internally and externally. It will stain a range of materials and can cause metals to develop rust and paint to wear away.
The worst part is that aside from taking the time to wash all of your clothes and belongings before coming back from a surf or swim, there really isn't too much you can do about saltwater getting in your car. Even sitting on a towel isn't a guaranteed win - we all know how easy it is for water to seep through onto the seats.
A regular clean and detail at our Autoclean Wollongong HQ will help keep both the interior and exterior of your car stain-free and in top condition, extending it's lifespan and helping it maintain its value.
Reduce the effects of unimpeded sunshine
Unless you are able to park your car in a garage or under a shade of some sort, the effects of long-term sun exposure can have a less than ideal outcome on your car's paint job. Combine this with the nastiness of bird droppings, salty air and saltwater and you'll find that your car starts falling apart much sooner than expected.
A regular wash and polish can help limit the effects of damage from the harsh Aussie sun on paint and create a barrier between your car and the natural consequences of living by the beach. This is just one of the frustrating downsides of being able to live in such a beautiful coastal area.
Benefits of washing your car regularly
Regardless of whether you live by the sea or not, having your car regularly washed and detailed is always a good idea. Here's why...
Take pride in yourself and the car you drive. You've spent a lot of hard earned money on your car. It's silly to not take pride in your accomplishments and keep your belongings in good nick.
Increase the lifespan of your vehicle. Regular upkeep and cleaning is the key to ensuring your car stays in good shape for as long as possible.
Retain the value so you can resell when the time comes. If you end up in a position where you want to sell your car, the more effort you've put into looking after it, the more it's likely to sell for.
Make good impressions on people. Many people view a car as a reflection of the owner's life and personality. A messy car might indicate a messy lifestyle which isn't the most attractive aspect.
Aside from these benefits, there are many more reasons to keep your car clean ESPECIALLY if you live in an area like Wollongong or another coastal town. Unfortunately, the natural environment by the sea is beautiful to look at
but is less than forgiving on paint and metal parts.
Either way, Autoclean Wollongong is here to help!
If you have any questions about our eco-friendly waterless cleaning process, feel free to get in touch via 0424 556 729.
For an Express, Deluxe or Ultimate waterless car washing and detailing service you can visit us or we can come to you. Request a FREE quote here!
What's the difference between a car wash and a professional car detailing? Find out here!