Hailstorms can cause significant damage to your vehicle, leading to costly repairs and reduced resale value. If you suspect that hail is on the way, it's important to take proactive measures to protect your car. Here are the top things to do or consider to safeguard your vehicle from hail damage:
1. Seek Covered Parking
One of the best ways to protect your vehicle from hail is to park it under a sturdy shelter. If you have access to a garage or carport, make sure to use it. If you're out and about, look for covered parking options such as parking garages, gas stations with overhangs, underpasses, covered parking lots, or other sheltered areas.
2. Use a Hail Protection Car Cover
Investing in a hail protection car cover can be a great way to safeguard your vehicle. These covers are designed to absorb the impact of hailstones and prevent damage to your car's surface. Make sure to keep the cover in your trunk so you can easily deploy it when needed.
3. If You Can’t Find Covered Parking, Move to a Safe Location & Park Strategically
If you're unable to find covered parking or deploy a protective cover, try to park your vehicle in a strategic location. Avoid parking under trees, as falling branches can cause additional damage. Park close to large buildings or walls that can act as windbreaks and reduce the impact of hailstones. Avoid low-lying areas that might be prone to flooding during a storm.
4. Use Blankets or Floor Mats
In an emergency, you can use household items like blankets, thick towels, or floor mats to protect your car. Place these items over your windshield, windows, and roof to cushion the impact of hailstones. Secure them with duct tape or heavy objects to prevent them from blowing away.
5. Close Windows and Sunroof
Ensure that all windows and the sunroof are fully closed to prevent hailstones from entering the vehicle. This simple step can protect the interior of your car from damage and keep you safe if you're inside during the storm.
6. Stay Inside the Vehicle
If you're caught in a hailstorm while driving and can't find immediate shelter, it's usually safest to stay inside the vehicle. Hail can cause injury if you're outside, and the car's metal roof and body provide some protection. Pull over to the side of the road, away from traffic, and wait for the storm to pass.
Hailstorms can be unpredictable and potentially damaging to your vehicle and auto glass, but with the right precautions, you can minimize the risk. Being proactive and prepared can save you time, money, and the hassle of dealing with repairs after a hailstorm.
Should you find your vehicle's glass damaged from a storm, give our professional auto glass experts a call and our team will gladly work with your insurance to get you seeing clearly on the road!
From all of us here at Quick-Set Auto Glass, drive safely out there Colorado!
