How to protect your van from road salt and corrosion this winter

When winter arrives and the gritters hit the roads, they keep drivers safe from ice but put vans at risk of damage. Road salt doesn’t seem like much at first, but when it mixes with water, it becomes corrosive and starts to eat away at exposed metal. Over time, that leads to rust, paint damage and expensive repairs. If you rely on your van for work, that’s the last thing you need in the middle of a busy season.

At The Van Discount Company, we understand how important your van is to your business. Whether you drive a compact Renault Kangoo for quick urban jobs, a practical Ford Transit that’s built for comfort on longer drives or a larger Vauxhall Movano that carries heavier loads, you depend on your vehicle every day. Keeping it protected through the colder months is one of the simplest ways to make sure it keeps performing for you.

Keep it clean

Washing your van in winter probably isn’t top of your to-do list, but it’s one of the most effective ways to protect it. Salt and grime quickly build up on the bodywork and underneath, and the longer they sit there, the more chance they have to cause corrosion. A regular wash helps remove the salt before it can do any harm. Pay special attention to the wheel arches, the sills, and the underside of the van, where damage often starts.

If you can, finish off with a layer of wax or sealant to create a barrier against moisture. It keeps your paintwork looking sharp and makes it harder for salt to cling to the surface.

Think about rust-proofing

For vans that work hard through the winter, a rust-proofing treatment can be a wise investment. It adds a protective coating underneath your vehicle that stops salt and water from reaching the metal. It’s especially useful if you’re covering long distances on rural or coastal roads where the salt levels are higher. Treating your van before the worst of the weather arrives can make a big difference to how it looks and performs by the time spring comes around.

Keep the inside dry

It’s easy to focus on the outside of your van, but moisture inside can be just as damaging. Wet coats, muddy boots and damp tools can all encourage rust from within. Using rubber mats makes it easier to keep the floor dry and clean. Try to air out the cabin whenever you can, and if you have somewhere sheltered to park overnight, use it. Even a simple moisture trap can help reduce condensation and keep the interior fresh.

Check your paintwork and seals

Before winter sets in, take a close look at your van’s exterior. Chips in the paint or cracks in the seals might not seem serious, but they give salt and moisture a way in. Touch up any paint damage and make sure the rubber around doors and windows is in good condition. Clear any blocked drainage holes so that water can escape instead of collecting in hidden places. 

Stay on top of maintenance

Winter is tough on your van in more ways than one. Cold weather and salty roads can affect everything from the brakes to the exhaust. Keeping up with regular servicing means any early signs of corrosion or wear can be spotted before they turn into bigger problems. Whether you’re running a smaller city model, a medium van like the Transit Custom or a heavy-duty Luton, a bit of care through the colder months will keep it dependable for longer.

If winter has made you realise it’s time for an upgrade, now’s a great time to find a van that’s built to handle whatever the road throws at it. At The Van Discount Company, we have vans to suit every kind of job, from compact city vans that make urban driving easy to larger tippers, dropsides and Lutons designed for heavy-duty work.

We work with an extensive network of trusted UK suppliers, searching the market to find you the best possible price on new vans. Our buyers save an average of 30% off RRP, helping you get more for your money without the stress of endless comparison shopping.

Ready to find the perfect van to keep your business moving? Give us a call now on 01282 872 530 to take advantage of our expert advice and the best new van deals! We’re always happy to help you find a van that fits your needs and keeps you moving this winter and beyond.