Car Owners Hub UK - Built by Drivers, for Drivers

Greetings everyone,


I am in search of some guidance on how to preserve the paintwork of my vehicle, as I have just purchased a new house.


Just across the street from the house stands a sizable tree. Parking across the road from it alleviates my concern that sap and leaves, particularly on windy days, could be blown onto my car. I do not park directly underneath it, though.


It is currently not feasible to find a spot in our small cul-de-sac that is entirely away from the trees. I will have to park here until my driveway is finished next year.


The possibility of tree sap, leaves, and bird droppings resting on the paintwork and eventually staining or damaging it is of particular concern to me.


Even though I wash and service the car often, I'd still like to protect the paint so it's easier to keep clean and less likely to get permanently damaged.


In this case, what advice do you have for me? Are you leaning toward ceramic, sealant, wax, PPF, or another option?


Additionally, is there anything in particular I need to do in the autumn and winter when there is an abundance of falling leaves?


Separately, there are a lot of cats in the area, and occasionally they like to sit on cars. In addition, I would greatly appreciate any advice you have on how to prevent cats from perching on the car.


Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

The lime trees that are now in my yard were once part of my driveway. Things that were bloody, but necessary for the house's history.

Simple waxing and washing will do the trick for me. Ceramic coating was not yet invented during this time.

Just leaves? Make sure the car's gutters and drains are clear.

Not a complicated matter at all.

My one piece of advice would be to not use an exterior car cover if you only plan on using the car once a week. I haven't met anyone who can "manage" things without covering the car when it's wet or dirty, which damages the paintwork.

Cats? Somewhere on this site, there's a thread about air rifles.... (Just kidding!)

As an actual substitute for reference cats, water pistols or super soakers are effective.

(A pro tip to avoid drying out the car is to fill with soft or filtered water.)

Persuade your neighbours to keep their vehicles' engines turned on. Cats adore cosy head coverings.