Does Parking in a Heated Garage Cause Rust? The Calgary Truth
It sounds like the ultimate luxury: driving your warm, snow-free car out of a heated garage into the Calgary winter. But for your vehicle's frame, it might be a death sentence.
The Chemistry of "Garage Rot" in Calgary
The "Active Zone"
Chemical reactions speed up with heat. At -20°C, the salty slush on your wheel wells is frozen and chemically inert. It can't rust your car.
When you park in a +20°C garage, that slush melts into a salty brine. This brine seeps into every crevice of your chassis and, fueled by the heat, accelerates oxidation (rust) rapidly while you sleep.
Cold vs. Heated Parking Analysis
| Feature | Cold Parking (Outside) | Heated Parking (Inside) |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Low (Cold Start) | High (Warm Car) |
| Salt State | Frozen (Inactive) | Liquid (Highly Corrosive) |
| Rust Risk | Low | EXTREME |
| Seal/Rubber Health | Stiff/Brittle | Soft/Flexible |
How to Have Both (Warmth & Protection)
You don't have to freeze to save your car. But you do need a strategy.
The Pros
- Wash your car before parking (rinse the salt off)
- Keep the garage just above freezing (+5°C) instead of hot (+20°C)
- Apply a permanent Undercoating to seal the metal
The Cons
- Never park a slushy car in a hot garage without rinsing
The most effective defense is a physical barrier. A professional Rubberized Undercoating seals your frame, so even if the salt melts, it never touches the metal. For the exterior paint, Ceramic Coating prevents the salt from sticking in the first place.
The Verdict
If you love your heated garage, you must have rust protection. It's not optional in Calgary. Check out our guide on Rubber vs Oil Undercoating to choose the best shield for your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
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