How to protect your car from hail in a do-it-yourself way

How to Protect Your Car from Hail in a Do-It-Yourself Way Hailstorms can cause significant damage to vehicles, leaving dents and scratches all over the body. While it may not always be possible to avoid driving during a hailstorm, there are some do-it-yourself methods that can help protect your car from hail. These techniques can provide some peace of mind and potentially save you from costly repairs. Here are some effective ways to safeguard your vehicle during a hailstorm. 1. Seek Shelter The simplest and most effective way to protect your car from hail is to find covered parking during a storm. This could be in a garage, carport, or any other structure that offers protection from hailstones. If you're away from home, consider parking your car under a bridge or any other area with a solid roof. By seeking shelter, you can minimize the chances of your car getting damaged. 2. Use Blankets or Thick Sheets If you find yourself caught in a hailstorm without access to shelter, you can quickly cover your car with blankets or thick sheets. These materials will provide a cushioning effect, minimizing the impact and potential damage caused by hailstones. Secure the blankets tightly using bungee cords or strong ropes to ensure they stay in place during strong winds. 3. Invest in a Hail Cover For those living in hail-prone areas, investing in a hail cover can be a wise choice. These covers are specially designed to protect your car from hail damage. They are made from durable materials and feature multiple layers that absorb the impact of hailstones. Hail covers are available in a variety of sizes and can be easily applied and removed when needed. 4. Create a Temporary Hail Canopy If you have some spare materials like PVC pipes, tarpaulins, or wooden beams, you can create a temporary canopy to shield your car from hail. Erect a sturdy structure using the materials and secure it in place using ropes or tie-downs. Drape a large tarpaulin or thick plastic sheet over the structure, creating a makeshift shelter for your vehicle. Ensure the structure is securely anchored to the ground to prevent it from getting blown away during a storm. 5. Use Bubble Wrap Bubble wrap might seem like an unusual choice, but it can be an effective hail protection method. Cut pieces of bubble wrap and attach them to your vehicle using strong adhesive tape. The bubbles will act as a cushion, absorbing the impact of hailstones and preventing them from directly hitting the car's surface. This method is cost-effective, easy to apply, and provides decent protection against hail damage. Remember, while these do-it-yourself methods can help minimize the severity of damage, no solution is foolproof. Extreme hailstorms can still cause damage despite taking preventive measures. If hail is in the forecast, it is always best to find proper shelter or avoid using your car altogether until the storm passes. In conclusion, protecting your car from hail damage is essential, especially if you live in an area prone to severe storms. Seeking shelter, using blankets or sheets, investing in a hail cover, creating a temporary hail canopy, or applying bubble wrap are all effective ways to safeguard your vehicle during a hailstorm. By taking these precautions, you can reduce the risk of costly repairs and keep your vehicle in top condition.