Common Types of Hail Damages: How to Recognize and Repair Them

Hailstorms damage properties across the U.S. annually, with repair costs averaging nearly $9,000, including vehicle damage. Understanding the most common types of hail damage can help you take precautions and determine the best repair methods. Here’s a guide to recognizing and dealing with different forms of hail damage to your vehicle.

‍

Dents and Dings

‍

Differences:

‍

• Dings: Small, shallow depressions up to the size of a quarter.
• Dents: Larger and deeper than dings, often more severe.

‍

Assessing the Damage:

‍

• Measure the depth and size of each impact.
• Note any chipped paint.
• Rounded bulges are easier to repair, while sharp edges are more complex.

‍

Repair Methods:

‍

• Traditional Repair: Using resin body filler, followed by sanding and repainting.
• Paintless Dent Repair (PDR): Using specialized tools to massage the dent from underneath without affecting the paint. Ideal for minor dents

‍

Why You Need an Expert:

‍

• Professionals have the right tools and experience to avoid causing additional damage.

‍

Scratches and Scrapes

‍

Differences:

‍

• Scratches: Small, linear marks from hail scraping across the surface.
• Scrapes: Wider and deeper, often gouging out more paint due to heavier impacts.

‍

Assessing the Damage:

‍

• Run your fingernail across the mark. If it catches, action is needed.
• Check if the paint primer or bare metal is exposed.

‍

Repair Methods:

‍

• Shallow Damage: Polish with a microfiber cloth and appropriate polishing material.
• Deeper Damage: Sand the area, fill if necessary, and repaint.

‍

Why You Need an Expert:

‍

• Experts can match the original paint color and prevent rust formation.

‍

Damaged Glass

‍

Large hailstones can crack or shatter vehicle glass. Recognizing the type of damage is crucial for safety.

‍

Types of Damage:

‍

• Chipped Glass: Small, round chunks missing. Safe for short-term driving but needs repair.
• Cracked Glass: Thin lines running through the glass. Avoid driving if possible.
• Shattered Glass: Completely broken and unsafe.

‍

Repair Methods:

‍

• Use a professional repair service or a specialist glass repair kit with resin and UV light to harden it.

‍

Why You Need an Expert:

‍

• Improper repairs can lead to further damage, posing safety and legal risks.

‍

Why DIY Repairs Are Not Recommended

‍

While some might attempt DIY repairs to save money, this often leads to more significant problems:

‍

• Temperature-Based Methods: Using hair dryers or heat guns can damage the paint and cause rust.
• Improper Tools: Without the right tools, DIY repairs can worsen the damage.

‍

Professional Benefits:

‍

• Expertise and Tools: Professionals have the necessary equipment and knowledge.
• Quality Assurance: 48-Hour Auto Hail Repair offers a lifetime satisfaction guarantee.

‍

Contact the Experts

‍

For comprehensive hail damage repair, trust the professionals at 48-Hour Auto Hail Repair. We offer:

‍

• Free Custom Estimates: Detailed assessments within one hour.
• Fast, Reliable Repairs: Efficient service to get your vehicle back in shape.
• Insurance Assistance: We work with most insurance plans and cover a large portion of your deductible.

‍

Don’t risk further damage with DIY attempts. Contact us today for a professional repair that ensures safety and maintains your vehicle’s value. Click here to schedule your custom estimate.

‍