In the Dallas/Fort Worth area, hailstorms are more common than in other regions, causing millions in damages yearly. As experts in hail damage repair at ClearSkies Auto, we have prepared this guide to help you protect your vehicle from hail damage.
1. Stay Alert To Weather Reports
Sometimes, weather reports can be pretty exaggerated about hailstorms. However, being informed about the weather is an excellent way to know when to get ready to get your car protected from hail damage. There are many apps available for Android and iOS that can help you stay alert without being paranoid.
2. Buy A Hail Blanket Or Car Cover
If you don’t have a safe place to park your vehicle at home, you can get affordable hail protection for your ride at very reasonable prices. Besides, these covers are portable, so that you can take them in your trunk and be prepared if hail catches you far from home.
You can find budget-friendly protectors for only $70 that will protect your windows and attenuate hail damage to much more advanced, bullet-proof models for $400.
3. Emergency Solutions
If a hailstorm is around the corner and you don’t have a safe place to park your car or a proper hail blanket or cover, improvisation can save your vehicle.
- Use floor mats or rugs to cover your windows.
- If you have empty boxes, thick cardboards, or towels, you can tie them to the door handles or the roof racks to hold them securely in place.
- If your vehicle is equipped with roof racks or crossbars, another great alternative is to attach a plywood board to them. While this won’t save your vehicle from a massive hailstorm, at least it will protect your roof from hard hits.
If it’s already raining or the storm is around the corner, don’t risk yourself to get hit by hail. Remember: if hail can shatter windshields and destroy cars, imagine how bad it could hurt a person.
4. Fold Your Side Mirrors
Even light hail can destroy side-view mirrors. Fold them in to protect the reflective portion. Plastic mirror covers are often flexible, making them resist hail strikes pretty well.
5. Get A Reliable, Comprehensive Insurance Coverage
If you don’t have a proper shelter for your vehicle or are afraid of getting caught by a hailstorm, you may spend a few extra bucks and hire a comprehensive insurance policy. Always read the fine print to ensure you are fully covered, and rest assured by having your vehicle properly insured.
Final Thoughts
We hope you stay safe and don’t have to face the hassle of having your car damaged by hail. However, no driver is exempt from the consequences of bad weather. In case your vehicle has suffered hail damage in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, at ClearSkies Auto, we can help you avoid the hassle of looking for a trustworthy repair shop. We work with a broad network of experts who will fix your car and leave it as good as new. We take care of the whole process so that you don’t have to. Contact us to get your car fixed now!