A vehicle’s longevity and value can disintegrate quickly if it’s not protected through rustproofing, a film application that protects metal from contact with oxygen and water to avoid rusting.
“Annual rustproofing is important because it protects the metal, it adds to the longevity of your vehicle, it keeps your vehicle looking better for longer with less down time due to repairs and [helps ensure] a better resale value when you decide to sell,” said Chris Anderson, owner of Niche Auto in Minden.
“Cottage country is full of large hills and winding roads. These areas have to be made safe for winter driving and to do that it requires a lot of salt [or] de-icing agent … so, you have to be proactive and keep your vehicle protected.”
Different rustproofing companies may use different products and approaches. Anderson is a big believer in Fluid Film, which he said has been leading the market since 1940.
“It has been proven in the most extreme conditions and is used by the Canadian and American Army, Navy and Air Force, exclusively,” said Anderson. “In Fluid Film there are no solvents, it is non-toxic, nonhazardous, it protects all metals, stops rust on contact and is long-lasting.”
Anderson differs in service approach by offering both garage-based and mobile options. Customers can go to the Niche garage or, for three or more vehicles, Anderson will come to them with a mobile lift that can raise halfton trucks or with ramps for larger vehicles.
“This service works great for large families, businesses and anyone that doesn’t have the time to drive their vehicles around and wait for service or try to organize rides.”
Anderson’s own experiences led him to start the mobile service. He found rustproofing vendors were not located within walking distance of stores or entertainment where customers could pass the time while waiting, and given the wait times or pickup needs, business owners were often paying for the treatment and the wages for two employees just for one vehicle.
“What if they have trailers, campers, RVs, or heavy equipment?” asked Anderson. “So, I made a service tailored for busy people that are interested in protecting their daily drives and anything else they could possibly want protected.”
Anderson recommends rustproofing your vehicle in spring as well as fall to make up for any rustproofing film loss due to harsh winter conditions and to protect against gravel chips. In addition, the metal is exposed to more moisture in spring, summer and fall than in winter when water turns to ice, and rustproofing fluid tends to creep more easily in warmer weather.
“[If] you were to do just one spray a year I recommend getting it done in late summer – August or September … but what is really important, is to just make sure you get it done before the salt hits the road.”
