There are many ways your vehicle’s exterior can be affected by external factors. While UV rays and other harmful factors can ruin the finish of the vehicle, bird droppings can be extremely difficult to deal with. The reason is that bird droppings contain acids. These acids if left ignored penetrate the paint and make it a lot more difficult to remove. In some cases, vehicle owners end up ruining the spot by using excessive cleaning methods. Handing over such a task to a professional is a lot better after incorporating protection techniques such as installing ceramic coating or paint protection film. Regardless, here are some tips that will not only help you remove bird droppings but also prevent them in the future.
Why Are Bird Droppings Bad For Your Car’s Paint?
Bird droppings are inevitable for most car owners. You might have your vehicle parked directly under the sun or a nice shade and come back to find multiple bird droppings. This means, while you are on the move, there is nothing you can do to stop it.
The worst part about bird droppings is that since car owners don’t expect them much, it is highly unlikely they are going to have the chemicals or cleaning agents to clean them immediately. The reason bird droppings need to be removed as soon as possible is because they contain uric acid.
This acid happens to be highly corrosive and varies based on the diet of the birds. Many vehicles have a protective film on them but these droppings containing uric acid can damage it as well if left uncleaned for long. Then, the paint is exposed so the paint gets damaged too.
Another issue with bird droppings is that they tend to become hard in the sun. This makes it almost impossible to remove them as they can scratch the surrounding area if you attempt to clean them. In such a case, you will need to take your vehicle to a professional who will remove it for you without compromising the finish of the vehicle.
How To Remove Bird Droppings?
Depending on the number and duration of the bird droppings left ignored on your vehicle, it could take a few minutes to a few hours to safely remove them. Regardless of whether you do it on your own or consult an expert, you are going to need to invest in special tools and cleaning agents.
The removal process of bird droppings takes place in multiple stages, which means you will need multiple types of products and items as well. To begin with, you will need to purchase a pH-neutral shampoo, soft cloth, brush, bird-removing agent, spray bottle, and car wax or sealant.
You might think that wiping the bird dropping away will solve the problem but not if the droppings have been there for a while. Even if you cleanup most of the fresh bird dropping, the remaining could still be problematic.
This is why it is suggested to properly wash the vehicle so that it is a lot easier to work without having to think about dirt, dust, and other factors. You should choose an enclosed place like your garage or a shaded area where direct exposure to the sun and dirt and dust accumulation is less likely.
Start by rinsing the vehicle and removing the bird dropping using a cleaning foam. Then, apply pH-neutral shampoo all over the vehicle and clean it thoroughly. Make sure you are don’t use any abrasive cleaners and tools for cleaning the stain.
Next, dry the vehicle and ensure there are no moisture or water spots left anywhere. Then, cordon off the bird-dropping area using tapes and use the bird removal agent by either directly applying or spraying it over the area. Work on it using a soft cloth and try to remove as much as possible.
Perform circular movements to prevent scratches and swirls. Make sure to use a clean cloth. Upon removal of the dropping or droppings, use a compound followed by wax or sealant to restore the finish of the area.
How To Protect Your Car From The Damage Caused By Bird Droppings?
Although bird droppings are difficult to avoid and unexpected, some ways can help you protect your vehicle.
Use A Car Cover
For instance, you can invest in a car cover. If your vehicle remains unattended or parked under a tree or directly under the sun for hours during the day, you should purchase a cover because then, you can’t avoid bird droppings and can only cover your vehicle. It’s similar to installing auto glass tinting Springfield to protect your car’s interior and yourself from UV rays.
Car covers come in a huge variety based on your needs and preferences. Modern car covers are made using microfiber material that not only protects the vehicle against bird droppings but also swirls and scratches. These types of car covers can be expensive but a small investment to protect your vehicle’s interior.
Park Your Car Wisely
Furthermore, you can and should park your vehicle under a shade or inside the garage even if it is for a few minutes. Plus, you should clean the bird droppings quickly after noticing it.
Install Paint Protection Film
While regularly cleaning and washing the vehicle is part of basic maintenance, if you want to protect your vehicle from external factors, you should invest in paint protection film. This is the most advanced and expensive option on the list but does wonders.
Paint protection film is technically a thin film installed on the vehicle’s exterior, acting as a protective barrier against scratches, bird droppings, dirt, dust, etc. The only downside to paint protection film is that you cannot install it on your own and will need the help of an expert.
Paint protection film is important if you have recently purchased a new vehicle or own an antique one. If you plan on selling the vehicle in the future, a paint protection film is going to help you retain the resale value by protecting the paint. PPF lasts for 5-10 years. After that, you have to remove the old film and install new PPF.
Install Ceramic Coating
Ceramic coating as compared to paint protection film is relatively cheaper. It is a layer or liquid coating that sits over the paint of the vehicle and protects external factors from getting to the paint. But, ceramic coatings are not able to protect the vehicle against swirls and scratches.
Additionally, ceramic coatings can be installed on your own as long as you have the tools and a designated area free of dirt and dust. It is a simple process but requires a bit of time and effort. Plus, ceramic coatings are dependent on temperature to properly cure.
This is why you need to apply them at room temperature and not when it is either too hot or cold. This will impact the longevity of the coating as well as the quality of the paint. If not, hand over the vehicle to an expert.
Conclusion
Protecting your vehicle and preventing bird droppings is easy if you follow the tips mentioned above. All it takes is a bit of effort and skills to remove the bird droppings. But keep in mind that prevention is better than cure. You should invest in a car cover or paint protection film to properly protect your vehicle. Choose a reliable paint protection film installer Springfield for proper PPF installation.
