There are a handful of things to consider when it comes to a winter storm and/or winter storage of your collector vehicle:

Roof Collapse

We get numerous claims from heavy snow collapsing the roof of a garage and damaging a collector car. Know the capabilities of your roof. If at all possible, remove excessive snow off the roof of your garage after a winter storm. You can use an extended broom or shovel.

Here’s some information that explains how much snow is too much for your roof to handle.

Animal Infestation

Winter is the time when small animals are looking for places to hide and nest. Having rat or mouse poison or traps positioned in your garage will help. For larger animals (raccoons, squirrels, etc), make sure you address any areas around the garage that would give access to these animals.

Frozen Antifreeze

Poor quality antifreeze can freeze and crack engine blocks, cylinder heads, radiators, etc. Check your antifreeze to make sure it is strong enough to withstand temperatures dipping down into the single digits or lower. Replace the antifreeze if needed.

Dampness and Condensation

If your garage is not heated, you can easily have a dampness issue. Anything metal will heat up and cool down. Usually in winter, when a car warms up from being very cold, it will build up condensation which will in return cause corrosion. Having a small fan set on low in the corner of the garage will keep the air from settling and will help mitigate corrosion caused by condensation. An incandescent shop light under the engine of a car can help too.

Whether you are on the east coast for the “Snowmaggedon” winter storm  or somewhere else, here are some great tips to keep you safe while battling  winter driving.

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Rick Drewry

Collector Car Senior Specialist at American Modern Insurance Group

Rick Drewry is the senior claims specialist, Collector Vehicle & Motorcycle, at American Modern Insurance Group. He has been passionate about collector cars since he was a kid. He has owned and restored collector cars for 30 years.

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