Picture this: you’re driving when suddenly a storm hits, pelting your car with hailstones the size of grapes—or even larger. These ice chunks not only leave dents and impressions all over your car’s exterior but can also shatter windshields and cause extensive damage.
Unfortunately, this scenario is all too common. The good news is that professional auto body shops and glass repair services have the tools and expertise to restore your car affordably after it’s been damaged by hail.
Why DIY Hail Damage Repairs Fall Short
You may find various DIY hail damage repair tips online, from using a hairdryer to leaving your car in the sun or applying ice cubes to the dents. However, these methods are often unreliable and can even cause more significant issues, potentially reducing your car’s resale value.
The best approach is to take your car to a professional auto body shop after notifying your insurance company. Experienced technicians at Fairway Collision Center can assess the damage and apply the most effective repair methods.
Professional Hail Damage Repair Options
Hail damage is typically repaired using one of two methods: conventional repairs or paintless dent repair (PDR). The choice depends on the severity of the damage.
Conventional Repairs
Remove and Replace:
In cases of severe damage, the affected parts may need to be replaced entirely. Damaged panels are removed, and new ones are installed and painted to match the rest of your vehicle.
Finish Glazing:
For less severe damage, specific areas can be sanded down, followed by the application of a glaze putty to fill the dents. Once it dries, the area is sanded smooth and repainted.
Body Filler:
This method is similar to glaze finishing but is used for medium to small dents. The paint is removed to expose the metal, and the dents are filled with body filler, which hardens before being sanded and repainted.
Traditional Heat Repair:
This technique is often used on older vehicles with thicker metal or newer vehicles with larger dents. Heat is applied with an oxyacetylene torch to expand the metal, making it easier to reshape. After cooling, the metal is repainted.
Paintless Dent Repair (PDR)
PDR is a modern, efficient alternative that eliminates the need for sanding or repainting. Instead, the technician works the dent out from the inside.
PDR is ideal for small to medium dents and can also be effective on larger dents if the metal hasn’t been compromised. This method is popular because it is:
- Cost-effective
- Fast
- Free of fillers and harsh chemicals
Professional Windshield Repairs
Hail can also cause damage to your windshield. While smaller pits, chips, and cracks might seem minor, they can become dangerous in the event of an accident. When you bring your car in for windshield repair, one of the following methods is typically recommended:
Crack Repairs:
For smaller damage, a curable resin matching the windshield is used to fill the cracks and pits, restoring the structural integrity of the glass.
Total Replacement:
If the crack is too large or has an unusual shape, a complete windshield replacement may be necessary to ensure the safety of your vehicle’s occupants. Many windshield replacement services offer mobile options, and most insurance policies cover this type of repair.
Dependable Hail Damage Repairs at Your Service
If your car has been damaged by hail, it’s understandable to feel frustrated. But don’t worry Fairway Collision Center servicing the greater Vandals Heights MN area have the skills and experience to provide high-quality service at a price that fits your budget.
