For most car owners, especially those without a home or portable garage, a car cover is a convenient accessory. It maintains your car in pristine condition for a long time by keeping off weather, UV rays, and water.
With almost all car covers able to keep off the water, many people wonder whether all of them are waterproof. Well, not all covers are waterproof, but almost all car covers are water-resistant.
Waterproof and water-resistance are two different terms, but also they have many features in common. This article will discuss more waterproof car covers, their importance, and much more. Check it out!
In short, Most Car covers are classified as Water-Resistant rather than Waterproof, However, there are Waterproof covers but they come at a much higher price than normal water-resistant vehicle covers.
Are Car Covers Waterproof?
Not all car covers are waterproof. There are three basic types of car covers: waterproof car covers, water repellent covers, and non-water-resistant ones.
Water-resistant car covers are manufactured with fabric that is coated with plastic films. They will ensure no water penetrates the surface of your vehicle. On the other hand, this cover will not allow any moisture and condensation formed on your car to escape.
Water repellent covers block entry of water into the surface of your vehicle, but they will not block 100% of it. As much as very little water can go through them, they also allow condensed water and moisture in your vehicle to escape.
Non-water-resistant ones will allow water to go through them onto and out of the vehicle. But they will allow free air circulation keeping your car aerated and protected from other weather elements like UV light
Are Waterproof Car Covers Same Water Repellent?
The main concern when it comes to car covers is whether they are waterproof or water repellent. Waterproof car covers prevent 100% of rainwater from reaching your car.
But it will not allow dew and moisture that collects inside to escape. Rainwater, especially acid rain, is very destructive to the vehicle’s paintwork.
If it comes in contact with your car, it may end up leaving stains that won’t be easy to clean. Waterproof car covers also keep off other conditions like dust, droppings, and UV light, thus ensuring your vehicle is well protected. Water repellent, on the other hand, is more breathable.
They don’t block 100% of the water from reaching your car, but they can allow the dew and moisture in your car to escape. Whereas both have similar characteristics, they also have many differences, importance, and disadvantages.
Waterproof car covers are made of nylon, the main reason they are a cheaper option. Water repellent ones are made of thick, breathable quality material.
Generally, water repellent is a good option because your vehicle will breathe well, expelling any destructive moisture trapped inside your car. If used for a long time, waterproof covers can lead to oxidation, rusting, paint corrosion/discoloration that can prove costly in the long run.
Waterproof Car Cover Types
Custom-Fit Covers
As their name suggests, this type of waterproof car cover is designed to fit your car precisely. It has a pocket to accommodate mirrors and provision for your car antennas.
Semi-Custom Covers
Semi-custom fit covers come at a much lower price than the perfect fit cover. However, they are meant to fit the length and width of most cars but not the shape of your car. They are essential in protecting your vehicle against water, harsh UV light, and other weather elements.
Universal Covers
This is the cheapest of all car covers. They will not fit properly on your car, neither are the best for protecting your car from weather conditions. They can be handy when working on a low budget and you want to protect your vehicle.
Are Waterproof Car Covers bad?
Waterproof car covers, when used for a long time, can cause harm to your precious car. These covers will trap moisture, dew any water available between it and the car surface. If left to stand for a long time, bacteria will multiply, resulting in oxidation and rusting. Thus, it will end up doing more harm than good. Water repellent covers will allow moisture to escape, thus minimizing this effect.
Can Waterproof Car Covers Cause Mold?
Yes. Car covers can cause molding. This is more likely to occur in car covers that are not breathable. They trap condensation under the cover. This speeds up bacterial growth, mildew, and mold growth. Molds are destructive and will soon start degrading your car’s paint. Therefore, it is advisable always to use breathable covers or ensure your car is completely dry before using a waterproof one.
Conclusion on Waterproof Car Covers
Car covers are very crucial in protecting your car from harsh indoor and outdoor conditions. Although waterproof covers are much cheaper, they are not the best because they can trap moisture leading to molding. If you look forward to investing in a car cover, the water-resistant type will be a good choice. It may be a bit expensive, but it will prove to be a good investment over time.
Robert Anderson is a world class motorhead who rebuilt his first carb at age 10, his first engine at age 15, and completed his first full hotrod build when he was just 18! Previously, he has ran a part warehouse, delivered pizzas, and managed the service department for a $20 million/year revenue dealership. Robert knows cars like few others and he is passionate about sharing his knowledge.