Tips for the safe use of a temporary car shelter

Temporary car shelters are very popular in Canada during the cold season because they protect cars from harsh weather conditions when they're not in use and also prevent us from having to clear the snow before hitting the road. If you use this type of shelter in the winter, the following tips will ensure an optimal and safe experience.

Choose a model certified by a local authority (e.g., Bureau de la normalisation du Québec) and designed/manufactured in the country. This way, chances are it will meet manufacturing standards well suited to our weather conditions, compared to a product from Asia, for example. Your shelter will therefore be stronger and more resistant.
Choose a model with a rounded or sloping structure. This facilitates snow removal, which must be done on a regular basis. When you clear your shelter, proceed gradually to avoid destabilizing the structure. For instance, do not remove the snow from one side completely before clearing the other.
Make sure the shelter's canvas is sturdy and well adjusted (but not overly stretched) to prevent water and snow/ice buildups. This way, you'll avoid overloading the structure. Also, do not set up your shelter too early in the fall to avoid exposing the canvas to the sunlight unnecessarily, as it would wear out faster.
When there are strong winds, it is advisable to allow air to circulate freely by slightly opening the front and rear doors.
Finally, inspect your shelter regularly during the winter months. Check the condition of the structure often and tighten the bolts as necessary. Also make sure that the canvas cord is in good condition and that the anchors are still firmly in place.

By applying these 5 simple tips, you can safely enjoy your temporary car shelter and you'll make sure to prolong its lifespan!