The pitter-patter of rain on a warm summer day can be a soothing, welcomed sound. The thud of golf ball-sized hail denting your helpless vehicle? Not so much. Hail damage repair is generally a straightforward process that should have your vehicle looking like new in no time, so if your vehicle is in bad shape, have faith. However, the quality of your repair job will depend largely on the provider you choose to work with.
Selecting a reputable hail damage repair facility is essential. Across the country, there are countless ‘storm chasers’ who set up shop wherever the most recent hail storm has hit. However, the quality and service you’ll receive is subpar, compared to a trusted facility that is a permanent fixture in your community. Too many unsuspecting customers have found themselves on the end of a bad deal by working with a pop-up repair shop that comes to town overnight, and is gone just as quickly. Instead, head to a local facility that has a proven track record of quality service in your community.
You might be wondering how hail damage is fixed, especially in severe cases. Often times, vehicles with mild hail damage can be fixed using Paintless Dent Repair, or PDR. A skilled PDR technician can remove most hail dents without damaging the original finish. If your vehicle is badly damaged, it may require a combination of traditional body repair and PDR. Many hail damage estimates are written this way, though a talented PDR technician can make repairs that other less skilled technicians cannot. In other instances, the vehicle may simply be too damaged to warrant PDR repairs, in which case it will need complete traditional repair and a full paint job, or it will be totaled out.
Keep in mind that after severe hail storms, even the best facilities can accumulate a long waiting list. While it’s understandable to want your vehicle looking like new in a hurry, good work takes time, and reputable facilities fill up fast. In addition, insurance claims adjusters are extremely busy and may find it difficult to keep up with such a large amount of work. Insurance companies need to visually approve the actual cost of the damage, meaning that the process can take more time.
With hail season fast approaching, it’s important to recognize the differences between pop-up repair shops and reputable facilities. In addition, understanding a little bit about how hail damage repair works can make it easier to navigate the process and select an experienced technician that can restore your vehicle to its original quality. When hail damage hits, don’t panic. Instead, turn to a trusted repair facility and you’ll be in good hands throughout hail season.
