We all hear a weather report every single day, but the moment they mention a hailstorm, which is more like “golf-ball-sized hail,” we all become extra protective of our cars, which are sitting in the driveway, totally uncovered, with only prayers to keep them safeguarded from such weather.
Of course, there is nothing worse than discovering a cracked windshield,, as it not only affects visibility and safety but also results in expensive repairs later.
That’s why sometimes little preparation goes a long way, especially when the weather hits hard. Being prepared can prevent damage to the windshield, side windows, and the overall vehicle’s body.
While you can’t do much to stop the windshield cracks from spreading, at least you can take small steps to reduce the damage and protect your car before the storm rolls in.
So, do not wait for the warning to pop up on your phone; discover some important tips to protect a car from hail and prevent excessive repair costs.
How Much Damage Can a Hailstorm Do?
Once the hailstorm starts, your car becomes the primary target for damage. Although they are not just more than chunks of ice, the truth is, they cause severe damage to the windshield, windows, and the car’s overall body, resulting in:
- Shattered glass
- Paint chips
- Dents
- Dings
- Damaged mirrors & lights
According to an estimate, an average hail damage windshield repair costs range from $1000 to $5000, depending on the damage and repair method you choose.
Remember, broken glass quickly adds up to your costly repair bill, especially if insurance is not sufficient enough to cover it.
How to Protect Your Car from Hail? Tips to Remember
If you are looking for ways to protect your car from hail, then make sure you read all the tips till the end to get complete information.
Park Your Car in the Garage, Always
Yes, we know it sounds a bit obvious, but trust us, it is the best way to protect a windshield from hail. Your garage acts like a shield between your car and the weather, so make sure you have access to the garage at both home and work.
A garage can help protect the following:
- Windshields
- Rear windows
- Paint
- Mirrors
- Roof panels
Buy a Hail Car Cover
If parking your vehicle inside the garage is not a feasible option for you and you’re wondering how to protect car from hail without garage, then you can simply buy a hail car cover. But make sure you don’t buy a thin cover, as it can only protect from sunlight and dust. Choose a padded or specially designed hail-resistant cover for your car, as they can protect it from:
- Dents
- Paint damage
- Windshield cracks
- Roof impact damage
They’re especially useful if:
- You don’t have garage access
- You travel frequently
- You park outdoors overnight
Hail prevention car covers must have secure straps, be made of waterproof materials, and provide full windshield coverage.
Avoid Parking Under Trees
Are you also one of those people who believe that parking under trees may protect their car from hailstorms? If yes, then it’s time to change this perspective.
Sometimes it works, but most of the time, it doesn’t. During severe storms, tree branches fall directly onto the vehicle and:
- Crush roofs
- Break windows
- Damage mirrors
- Scratch paint
Instead of risking your car’s safety, it’s recommended to find the following:
- Parking garages
- Gas station awnings
- Covered parking lots
- Carports
Trees can offer partial protection only when the weather is not so harsh. Otherwise, they add another layer of risk.
Use Floor Mats or Rugs on Windows
If the storm hits suddenly and you don’t have blankets or car covers, then you can use floor mats or car rugs as windshield covers. It’s important to put the carpeted side on the window and the hard rubber side facing up. We heard Hail hates rubber.
Cardboard Boxes Also Work
You may be surprised to know, but yes! Cardboard boxes really work.
Make sure cardboard boxes are thick and sturdy so they can handle the harshness of hail. When you use cheap cardboard, it can disintegrate easily when it gets wet. But thicker panels offer better survivability in hailstorms.
Pro tip: Attach strings or bungee cords to door handles to support cardboard on your vehicle.
Towels Can Be a Great Option
Sometimes towels also work. However, you need to use them properly and fold them into the car securely. Be as creative as you can while choosing towels because they’ll need a proper technique to offer protection.
Consider a Hail Blanket
Believe it or not, but purchasing a hail cover for your vehicle is a long-term investment. However, if you can’t buy a hail cover, then you can simply use a hail blanket as an alternative.
To provide adequate coverage from a hailstorm, tuck the ends of the blanket into the doors, right under the hood, and inside the trunk lid. After that, close the doors tightly and ensure you have proper access to enter the doors when the storm passes.
Fold the Side Mirrors In
Obviously, a hailstorm can badly crack the side mirrors. They are super thin and flimsy and can be easily damaged. Fold them inside to protect the reflective part. Yes, the mirror’s casing will be at the mercy of Mother Nature, as you can’t do much to protect it.
Keep Emergency Protection Materials in Your Car
Hailstorms do not always happen when you are at home. Sometimes, you could be
- At work
- Traveling
- Shopping
- On a road trip
That’s why it’s important to keep all emergency protection materials in the car. Some emergency protection materials are
- Thick blankets
- Towels
- Foam mats
- Portable car cover
- Bungee cords
- Tape
These items can reduce the severity of the damage even when unexpected hailstorms happen.
Review Your Insurance Coverage
Many drivers do not realize what their insurance coverage covers until the situation really happens.
Typically, comprehensive auto insurance includes:
- Windshield replacement
- Dent repair
- Paint damage
- Broken glass
So, just take a few minutes to review:
- Deductibles
- Glass coverage
- Comprehensive protection
- Claim procedures
What Should You Do After a Hailstorm?
Even after all the preparations, damage still occurs during a hailstorm.
So, after the storm passes, always look for:
- Windshield chips
- Cracks
- Broken mirrors
- Roof dents
- Paint damage
Do not forget to take photos of visible damage for insurance purposes.
How Hail Damage Impacts the Value of Your Vehicle
Sometimes, minor dents can lower the resale value of your vehicle.
Potential buyers usually worry about:
- Hidden structural damage
- Future rust issues
- Poor repair quality
- Safety concerns
That’s why it’s recommended to ensure fast repairs to prevent further damage.
Why Should You Never Ignore Windshield Damage?
Did you know your windshield provides more than 45% of structural strength to your vehicle, especially during a front-end collision?
Besides that, it helps:
- Support roof strength
- Maintain airbag performance
- Protect passengers during collisions
Don’t Risk Driving with Damaged Auto Glass – Choose Safety Today!
Hailstorms are unpredictable, but protecting your vehicle doesn’t have to be complicated.
Simple habits like checking the weather, parking under cover, repairing windshield chips early, and keeping emergency protection supplies nearby can make a major difference.
While no method offers 100% protection, preparation dramatically reduces the chances of severe damage. At Skaug Bros Auto Glass, drivers understand how important safe, reliable auto glass is after severe weather strikes. Whether it’s a small windshield chip or more extensive hail-related glass damage, getting professional help quickly can keep your vehicle safer and road-ready.