Garages are often turned into workshops, gyms or storage rooms, but using one for its original purpose still offers several practical advantages.
Parking your vehicle inside a secure concrete garage can reduce its exposure to theft, bad weather, contaminants and passing traffic. It also makes day-to-day vehicle care more convenient.
1. Greater Protection From Theft and Vandalism
A locked garage keeps your vehicle out of direct view and places another physical barrier between it and anyone attempting to gain access. This can make opportunistic theft, vandalism and interference less straightforward than when a car is parked on the road.
The level of protection will depend on the garage door, windows, locks and how consistently they are used. Always close and lock every access point, even if the vehicle will only be left unattended for a short time.
2. Shelter From Weather and Contaminants
Parking indoors protects a car from direct exposure to rain, snow, hail and strong sunlight. It can also reduce the amount of bird droppings, tree sap, pollen and fallen debris reaching the paintwork and glass.
These substances can be difficult to remove and may mark the finish when left in place. A garage will not replace routine cleaning and maintenance, but it can help keep the exterior cleaner between washes.
3. Less Exposure to Frost and Summer Heat
A garage usually provides a more sheltered environment than the street or driveway. During winter, this can reduce frost forming on the windscreen and make cold mornings more manageable.
In summer, keeping the car out of direct sunlight can prevent the cabin, steering wheel and seats from becoming as hot. The garage will not maintain a fixed temperature, but it can reduce some of the rapid temperature changes experienced outdoors.
4. Reduced Risk From Passing Traffic
Cars parked on the road can be damaged by passing vehicles, opening doors, bicycles or objects moved during bad weather. Wing mirrors and bodywork are particularly vulnerable where roads are narrow or heavily used.
Parking inside removes the vehicle from roadside traffic. However, make sure the garage entrance is wide enough for the car and take care when entering or leaving, as tight openings can create their own risk of scratches and dents.
5. More Convenient Vehicle Care
A garage provides a sheltered place to check tyre pressures, top up screenwash, clean the interior or carry out other simple maintenance. Tools and car care products can be stored nearby, provided they are kept safely and securely.
It can also make loading shopping, luggage or child seats easier during wet weather. Good lighting and enough room to open the vehicle doors will make the space more practical.
Will Garage Parking Reduce Car Insurance?
Where a vehicle is kept overnight is one of several factors insurers may consider. A locked garage could reduce the cost with some providers, but there is no automatic discount. Some insurers may see a tight garage entrance as presenting an increased risk of accidental damage.
Compare quotations using accurate information and tell the insurer where the car is normally stored. If you change its regular overnight parking location, check whether the provider needs to be informed.
Choose a Garage That Fits Your Vehicle
Check the full dimensions of the vehicle before choosing a garage. Allow for mirrors, the garage door opening, space to open the car doors and any shelving or equipment that will be stored alongside it.
Dencroft supplies different garage door styles, including up-and-over, sectional and roller doors. The available internal space and the way the door operates should both be considered when planning the garage.
Manage Ventilation and Moisture
A wet vehicle can introduce moisture into an enclosed garage, so do not block ventilation openings. Keep guttering and drainage clear and deal with leaks promptly.
Road salt and dirt should still be removed from the vehicle as part of routine care. A garage reduces exposure to the weather but does not eliminate the possibility of corrosion.
Never leave a vehicle engine running inside a garage, even when the main door is open. Further precautions can be found in our garage safety guide.
Find a Concrete Garage for Your Car
Dencroft has been manufacturing concrete garages since 1947, with sizes, roof styles, doors, windows and finishes available to suit different properties and vehicles.
If you are considering a new garage for your car, contact Dencroft Garages to discuss the available designs and dimensions.