Before the salt and cold arrive, think about your car’s bodywork
In Quebec, fall isn’t just about colorful leaves and pumpkin spice lattes. It’s also the ideal time to prepare your vehicle for the harsh winter ahead. Between salt, calcium, sand, and freeze-thaw cycles, your car’s paint takes a beating. Acting now helps extend the life of your paint and preserve your vehicle’s value.
Why you should protect your paint before winter
The Quebec winter is tough on cars. As soon as the first snow falls, roads in Montreal, Quebec City, and the North Shore are covered in abrasives designed to improve traction. Unfortunately, these chemicals are harsh on paint and speed up corrosion.
The mix of salt and moisture seeps into microscopic cracks in the paint, causing rust—especially on rocker panels, fenders, and hoods. Over time, these damages lower resale value and affect the vehicle’s appearance.
Conversely, a well-protected car maintains its shine longer and withstands extreme conditions better. That’s why Dr Tint always recommends taking action before the deep cold sets in—when temperatures are still ideal for applying a paint protection film (PPF).
The effects of the seasons on automotive paint
The contrast between seasons increases the risk of deterioration.
- In summer, heat and UV rays weaken the paint, making it more susceptible to oxidation.
- In winter, salt, calcium, and humidity infiltrate the bodywork.
This constant cycle leads to microscopic cracks and paint chips that expose bare metal. On the South Shore, where roads are often covered in de-icing salts, corrosion can appear within just a few weeks.
How to effectively protect your paint
1. Choose a paint protection film (PPF)
A paint protection film (PPF) is the most complete and long-lasting solution for preserving your vehicle’s finish. Transparent and nearly invisible, it acts as a shield against rock chips, sand, salt, and harsh chemicals.
At Dr Tint, the installation is done with precision on the most exposed areas: hood, front bumper, fenders, mirrors, and lower doors. This physical barrier seals the paint and keeps the vehicle looking new season after season.
2. Complement with proper surface maintenance
Even with a protection film, regular maintenance remains key. A deep cleaning before winter removes residues accumulated over the summer and prevents dirt or calcium buildup. Use gentle products and avoid automatic car washes with stiff brushes that could damage the film’s surface.
The economic and aesthetic benefits
Protecting your paint before winter is a smart investment. A well-maintained vehicle retains its resale value much longer. From Quebec City to Laval, automotive experts agree: a rust-free car with flawless paint always sells better.
Before the first snowflakes, trust the experts at Dr Tint
Fall is the strategic time to protect your car’s paint. By applying wax or a paint protection film before winter, you create a crucial barrier against salt, calcium, and freezing temperatures. At Dr Tint, our specialists on the North Shore, South Shore, and in the Quebec region provide personalized advice to give your car the protection it deserves.
Get ready now—winter is coming, but your paint doesn’t have to suffer.
