We live in a rust-belt state, where the winters are harsh and you know how important it is to take care of your car. One way to protect your car from the damaging effects of winter weather is to have it undercoated. Undercoating can help keep your car looking new for years to come and can even increase its resale value. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of undercoating and why we use wax based undercoat!
Undercoating is a process in which a protective layer is applied to the underneath of a vehicle. This layer helps to prevent rust and corrosion by creating a barrier between the metal and the elements. There are two different types of undercoating, Asphalt based and Wax based. Undercoating can be done professionally or DIY, but we always recommend having it done by a professional. They will have the proper equipment and knowledge to get the job done right.
What are the different types of undercoating?
Asphalt based undercoating is the most common type of undercoating. It is made up of a rubberized asphalt compound that helps to protect against corrosion, rust, and abrasion. This type of undercoating is typically applied with a paint brush or roller and dries to a black finish. It has one major drawback and that is it can crack over time and hold water and salt in the crack. When this happens it can actually make your car rust faster.
Wax based undercoating is another option for those looking for extra protection against the elements. Wax based undercoating forms a thick, waxy barrier on the underside of the vehicle. This barrier helps to prevent rust and corrosion by repelling water and other liquids. Wax based undercoating can be applied with a brush or roller and usually dries to a clear finish. We use a product called Fluid Film that is Wax and Lanolin based. This makes for a non toxic self healing layer of protection. The major drawback to Fluid Film is that it does wear off in areas of high water spray.
Check out how we spray Fluid Film
Check out this 5 Year review of Lanolin Undercoating
Why use wax based undercoat?
The biggest reason we use Fluid Film is that it stops the spread of rust. Rubberized undercoat does not stop the rust. It only hides it. The car will continue to rust under the rubber coating. Products like Fluid Film penetrate the rust and steel blocking the salt and water.
What is our Fluid Film Guarantee?
Knowing that Fluid Film wears off we have put together a LIFETIME COATING PACKAGE. The details are this:
- We coat your car for a 1 time fee
- We will touch up the Fluid Film undercoat every time you bring your car in for service for FREE
- If you want another coat put on and don’t need any service there will be a $25 spray fee
The reason for this package is we see so many cars rusting out. The average age of a car in the US is now 13 years old and it is increasing. The average age of most cars in the rust belt is much less because of rust. We can change that by undercoating your car with Fluid Film.
We have been using Fluid Film Undercoating on our own vehicles for the last 5 years and it has stopped the rust from expanding on our cars. It is a great way to protect your car and keep it looking new. Since we live in an area where the winters are harsh, we highly recommend having us do it to make sure your car is fully protected.. It will help to extend the life of your car and keep it running smoothly for years to come!