Auto Hail Repair

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Category: Auto Hail Repair Blog

We’re here to help you learn how to get the best auto hail damage repair.
Because let’s face it, we can’t live without our cars (not easily at least).

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Before and after repair

Car Hail Damage Repair Cost [With Real Examples]

Hail damage repair for cars can get really expensive. While most articles mention costs ranging from $750 to $3,000, the reality is often much higher because we’re usually dealing with hundreds of dents. At StormWise, we’re the only brand that discloses the real costs for car hail repair, and based on the thousands of cars we’ve fixed in the past three years, the average cost is about $6,750.  The range can be anywhere from $4,000 to as high as $15,000. But here’s what most people don’t know: on average, we charge $0 for the repair.  In this article, we’ll explain the factors that affect the cost and, more importantly, how you can get your car fixed with paying $0 out of pocket. Key Factors Affecting Hail Damage Repair Costs The cost of hail damage repair depends on a few factors: Dent Size and Count The size and number of dents affect the cost of hail damage repair. Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) uses a pricing matrix based on dent size (like dime, nickel, quarter, or half-dollar) and dent quantity (mild: 6-15 dents, moderate: 16-30 dents). For example, 10 dime-sized dents on a hood might cost around $150. But if there were 20 quarter-sized dents, the cost would increase to about $225 due to the larger size and higher number of dents. For a more detailed breakdown of how PDR costs are calculated, here’s an in-depth look into the PDR pricing matrix. Panel Material Hail repair costs also depend on the complexity of the panel material. Aluminum, for example, is harder to repair than steel because it lacks “metal memory,” meaning it doesn’t easily return to its original shape after a dent. As a result, aluminum panels can cost up to 25% more to fix, requiring specialized tools and techniques. This adds to the repair cost and demands greater skill from the technician. Paint Damage and Severity Beyond the number, size, and material, hail repair costs also depend on the severity of the damage and the methods needed. Severe damage, like cracked or chipped paint, can significantly raise costs. For example, deep dents that break through the paint may require both dent removal and repainting, increasing the expense. Minor touch-ups might cost around $50, while a full car respray for severe damage can reach up to $5,000. Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) vs. Traditional Repair Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) is usually the most budget-friendly choice for fixing minor dents that haven’t cracked the paint. You can expect to pay between $50 and $200 per dent, depending on the size and how many there are. If there’s paint damage or if the dents are too large for PDR, traditional repair methods will be necessary. These can cost between $500 and $1,500 per panel, with prices going up based on how severe the damage is. → Discover the Best Paintless Dent Repair in Denver (+ Lifetime Warranty) Insurance Coverage Most comprehensive car insurance policies cover hail damage because it’s considered an “act of nature.” This means you usually won’t see your premiums go up if you file a claim. Just keep in mind that you need a comprehensive policy—liability-only or collision insurance won’t cut it. With comprehensive insurance, repairs for hail damage won’t affect your rates, but it’s best to act quickly after a storm to prevent any further issues. StormWise can help by working directly with insurance companies to make sure all your repair costs are covered, including any deductibles you might have. Severe hailstorms, like those that hit Colorado, can really cause a lot of damage, with repair bills ranging from $3,000 to over $15,000. Even smaller hailstones can lead to damage that meets or exceeds your deductible, which often means insurance will cover the full repair cost if the damage is significant. Don’t wait too long to get those repairs done. Driving around with unrepaired hail damage can hurt your car’s value and could even lead to lower insurance payouts if you get into an accident later. Some insurance companies might subtract the value of any previous unrepaired damage when calculating payouts for a total loss. Choosing the Right Repair Service for Hail Damage After a hailstorm, acting quickly to repair any damage is essential to maintain your car’s value. Reputable repair services, like StormWise, specialize in Paintless Dent Repair (PDR), a technique that restores dents without affecting your vehicle’s original paint or finish, keeping it in top condition. Look for repair shops with fast turnaround times—StormWise, for example, often completes repairs within two weeks, even during peak seasons. Partnering with a service that works directly with insurance companies can also simplify the claims process and reduce delays. Some providers, including StormWise, offer deductible assistance, easing your out-of-pocket costs. Choosing the right repair service not only ensures fast, quality repairs but also helps maintain your car’s value and avoids complications with future insurance claims. → Get Expert Auto Hail Repair in Denver Real Examples of Hail Damage Repair Costs Minor Damage Minor hail damage typically involves hundreds of small dents across the vehicle, as even smaller hailstones can cause widespread impact. Repair costs for this type of damage usually start at $3,000 to $5,000, depending on the extent of the damage and the vehicle’s panel materials. PDR (Paintless Dent Repair) is commonly used for these repairs, ensuring that the vehicle’s original paint remains intact. Moderate Damage Moderate hail damage involves a higher number of dents spread across several panels, leading to more extensive repair needs. Costs for this level of damage typically range from $5,000 to $8,000, depending on the vehicle and the extent of the impact.  Repair specialists often recommend addressing moderate damage quickly to avoid further complications and preserve the car’s value. Severe Damage Severe hail damage involves extensive denting across multiple panels, often requiring significant repairs or part replacements. For severe cases, repair costs typically range from $8,000 to $15,000 or more, especially for luxury vehicles or when insurance doesn’t declare the vehicle a total loss. Aluminum Panel

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Celine Hobbs October 23, 2024
a car with dents caused by hail damage

Expert Guide on How to Repair Hail Damage on Car: Know What You Should Do

Hailstorms can leave your car looking like a golf ball, peppered with dents and sometimes causing more severe damage to its paint and glass. For those living in Colorado and Texas, hail storms are a yearly occurrence from April to September, making it important to know how to handle the aftermath.  Understanding how to repair car hail damage can save you time and money, and help you decide when it’s best to tackle the repairs yourself or call in the pros.As the leading auto hail repair brand in the U.S. with over two decades of experience, we’ll share our knowledge about various repair options for different types of hail damage.  We’ll help you compare professional services with effective DIY solutions and walk you through the steps we take at StormWise. How to Repair Hail Damage on Car: Types of Hail Damage Understanding the type of damage your car has endured is the first step in deciding the best repair approach. Hail damage can vary depending on the size of the hailstones and the intensity of the storm. Here are the most common types: Dents: These are the most frequent form of hail damage. They can range from tiny dimples to larger, more pronounced indentations. Paint Damage: Sometimes, hailstones will chip or crack your car’s paint, leaving it exposed to the elements and at risk of rust. Glass Damage: Larger hailstones can crack or shatter windows and windshields, creating safety hazards and requiring immediate repair. DIY Hail Repair Methods at Home  When it comes to DIY hail damage repair, it’s important to recognize that not all methods shared online are effective—or even safe. Before diving in, you should assess the extent of the damage to ensure that a DIY approach is feasible. While techniques like Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) kits offer some potential, other popular methods, such as using hair dryers with compressed air or dry ice, are largely ineffective and may cause further damage.  Here, we explore different repair approaches to help you make an informed decision. Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) – the Best Method to Fix Dents Caused by A Hailstorm What is PDR? PDR is a method of removing dents and dings without affecting the car’s paint. By accessing the back of the dent, specialized tools are used to push the metal back into its original form. Step-by-Step Guide: Assess the Dent: Ensure that the paint is not cracked and the dent is shallow enough for PDR. Gain Access: Remove interior panels if necessary to access the backside of the dent. Apply PDR Tools: Use specialized rods to gently push the dent out from behind, working gradually until the dent is no longer visible. Monitor and Adjust: Continuously check progress to ensure the panel returns to its original shape. Best For: Small to large dents where the paint is undamaged. Most hail dents range in size from a dime to a half-dollar. Pros: Retains original paint. Most PDR firms offer lifetime warranty on the repair. Much cheaper than traditional dent repair methods. . Cons: Requires skill, experience, and patience. PDR doesn’t work if there is crack or missing paint at the core of the dent PDR doesn’t work on plastic panels, rocker panels, or bumpers whether they’re plastic or metal. Tools Needed: PDR rods, blending hammers, and specialized lighting tools. DIY Methods that work – Glue Pulling Kits and Suction Cup Puller Glue Pulling Kits Glue pulling is an effective method for small to medium dents on metal surfaces, especially in hard-to-reach areas like roofs or door panels. Adhesive tabs are applied to the dent, and a pulling tool gradually lifts it out.  Afterward, any remaining glue should be removed with an adhesive cleaner to avoid paint damage. This method preserves the paint if done carefully, though patience is required to prevent mistakes. Suction Cup Puller Suction Cup Puller is a practical method for removing large, shallow dents on metal surfaces, such as car doors, hoods, or trunks. The suction cup creates a vacuum seal over the dent, and steady pressure is applied to lift the metal back into place.  This technique works best on flatter surfaces and requires proper cleaning to ensure a secure seal. Multiple attempts may be necessary for optimal results. This method preserves the paint, provided the metal isn’t over-pulled, and offers an easy, cost-effective solution for minor dents. Avoid Misinformation in DIY Repairs While some DIY online tips—like the hot water technique—claim to work on multiple materials, popping dents only works on metal surfaces. This is because metal has memory properties that allow it to return to its original shape when the right amount of force is applied. Plastic lacks these properties, meaning dents in plastic bumpers or panels cannot be “popped” out as easily. Using the wrong method for the material can lead to frustration and even damage. Always verify if a technique suits the type of surface you’re working on. Trusted solutions like glue pulling kits and suction cup pullers provide safe and effective results for metal surfaces without compromising your vehicle’s paint or structure. If you’re interested in learning more about real vs. fake DIY methods, check out this guide on compressed air and dry ice dent removal techniques. Repairing Hail Damage Requires Specialty Technique Sometimes, a hailstorm will come and go, and it isn’t too bad. It damaged your car a little, and you figure, “Hey, this isn’t the worst. Maybe if I do some research, get the proper materials, I can repair all the damage myself!” That’s the thing, the damage may appear to be easy to fix, but if you look closely enough, you’ll discover how to repair hail damage on car requires a more difficult process than you think in reality. It’s also easy to miss all the subtle dents and scratches which, as stated before, could develop over time into much larger issues that will blow up the hail damage auto repair cost in the long run. This is why you need specialty, hail

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Celine Hobbs October 23, 2024
Remove Hail Dents from Hood

How to Remove Hail Dents from Hood? 6 Expert Tips

Hailstorms can quickly turn a flawless car hood into a marked surface, decreasing both its aesthetic appeal and resale value. This damage impacts the vehicle’s look and structural integrity. There are several methods that are available for effectively removing these dents, with options ranging from professional repair services to more personalized approaches. It’s important to choose the right method to ensure the best results. Understanding your hail repair options allows you to protect your investment and restore your car’s appearance, enhancing both its aesthetics and market value. This guide will explore the most effective strategies to tackle this common issue. How to Remove Hail Dents from Hood? Hail dents, from door dings to deeper impacts, can be removed using various methods depending on the severity and size of the dent, as well as the condition of the paint. Whether these are minor dents suitable for DIY techniques or more significant damage needing professional help, understanding the nature of the dent and the risks associated with different repair methods is key to effective hail damage car repair. #1 Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) is not only a professional technique but also the most recommended method for efficiently removing dings and small to medium-sized dents from vehicles without compromising the original paint. This innovative process involves specialized tools, such as glue pulling devices, to meticulously massage the dent out from beneath the vehicle’s body panels. Unlike traditional methods that may use fillers and repaint sections of the car, PDR retains the vehicle’s factory paint, thereby preserving its value and aesthetic appeal. Especially ideal for hail damage repair, PDR is cost-effective, minimally invasive, and maintains the integrity of the original paintwork, making it a superior choice for car owners who value maintaining their vehicle’s pristine condition. → Discover the Best Paintless Dent Repair in Denver (+ Lifetime Warranty) #2 Conventional Dent Repair For larger or complex dents where the paint surface is cracked or chipped, conventional dent repair is required. This traditional approach might involve a glue gun to apply body filler before sanding down the affected area, then repainting the entire section. While effective for fixing deep dents and creases, it can be more expensive and time-consuming compared to PDR. #3 Heat and Cold Method This DIY method involves using a heat source, such as a hair dryer or heat gun, to warm the dented area followed by an application of cold air or dry ice to contract the metal quickly. Although it might seem like a quick fix for minor car dents, it carries a risk of damaging the paint and is generally not recommended. Always consult a professional from a dealership or repair shop before attempting this method to avoid further damage. #4 Suction and Dent Pullers Suction cups and dent pullers, which are often included in a dent removal kit, attempt to fix small dents by creating a vacuum to pull the dent outward. While this method can be effective for very minor damage, it requires careful handling to avoid damaging the paint or worsening the dent. DIY vs. Professional Repair When facing hail dent removal, the decision between DIY and professional repair depends heavily on the damage’s severity. DIY Repairs– Best for minor, surface-level dents where the paint remains unscathed. While DIY kits can be economical and offer a quick fix, they require precision and the ability to follow detailed instructions. However, there’s a risk of inadvertently worsening the damage due to improper tool use or technique. DIY methods often lack long-term reliability and could potentially diminish your vehicle’s resale value if done incorrectly. Professional Repairs– Recommended for more severe dents or any damage where the paint is compromised. Professionals bring extensive expertise, specialized tools, and techniques that ensure high-quality repairs, preserving both the aesthetics and value of your vehicle. Most reputable auto body shops also provide warranties, offering peace of mind that the repair is durable and covered against future issues. While the cost is higher than DIY repairs, the investment in professional service minimizes the risk of further damage and helps maintain your vehicle’s integrity and resale value. → Get Expert Auto Hail Repair in Denver (With Insurance Claim Assistance) 6 Tips When Removing Hail Dents from Hood   Effective dent removal requires a strategic approach. Here are six critical tips to help you choose the best repair method for your vehicle: Assess the Damage– Evaluate the size, depth, and location of the dents to determine the most suitable repair method. Research Your Repair Options– Explore various repair techniques such as Paintless Dent Removal (PDR) or traditional body shop repairs to find what best suits your car’s condition. Get Multiple Quotes– Obtain estimates from several repair shops to compare prices and services offered. Opt for Reputable Repair Shops– Opt for Reputable Repair Shops- Choose a well-established repair shop with good reviews for quality service like StormWise, a trusted auto body shop in Denver. Our skilled technicians use advanced techniques, such as paintless dent repair (PDR), to efficiently fix hail damage while preserving your car’s original finish. Consult a Professional– Always talk to a professional to understand the complexities of the repair cost and process. This can help avoid unexpected expenses. Check Insurance Coverage– Consult your insurance provider to see if hail damage repair is covered under your policy and familiarize yourself with the deductible amount. → See Our Work: Before and After Auto Hail Repair To Wrap Up If you’re ready with a DIY kit or prefer the assurance of professional repairs, understanding the different methods to remove hail dents is essential. Choosing the right approach depends on assessing the extent of the damage and knowing the strengths and limitations of each technique. Addressing hail damage promptly ensures the integrity and appearance of your vehicle are preserved, maintaining its value and your pride in its upkeep. For expert guidance on selecting the most effective dent removal strategy for your car, feel free to contact us. We’re here to help you restore your

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Celine Hobbs May 2, 2024
hail damage car

11 Hail Damage Car Myths Explained

Updated on 9/7/2022 When the sky opens up, and hail begins to fall, you may be fascinated by the spectacle. You may not think much about what these small balls of ice can do to your assets, including your car. Yet, car owners need to recognize just how impactful that short hailstorm can be when it comes to hail damage car. The damage itself can be worrisome, especially if you have a high-valued or new vehicle you hope to protect. That’s why we’re sharing these 11 hail damage car myths — to help you understand what is and isn’t true, and what you should really be doing to get the best outcome for your car. Myth 1: Is Pea Sized Hail Not A Big Deal? Wrong. Pea-size hail is quite small, often hard to see. From far away it looks like heavy raindrops. However, small bits of hail like this often travel at a very high speed as it strikes your car. When this happens for even a few minutes, it can cause hundreds of small dents on the car’s surface. When you are driving your car and pea-sized hail strikes, the car’s movement only compounds the damage, making it even worse. Learn more about minor hail damage. Myth 2: Are Minor Hail Dents Cheap To Fix? It is true that hail may not create a large amount of damage to a vehicle. However, it can be very costly to repair minor hail dents because there are usually hundreds of dents. The actual cost you can expect also depends on multiple factors, including the type of car, like the material for the panel and the car make and model. Nowadays, many luxury cars and high-end models use aluminum for the panel because it’s lightweight and is beneficial to keep the car fuel-efficient. But dents on an aluminum panel are tricky to fix and cost a lot more than repair on a steel panel. To learn more about hail damage car repair costs: Why are Hail-Damaged Cars So Expensive to Fix? To read more about the associated costs to fix aluminum panel damage: Why Aluminum Is A Tricky Material For Dent Repair? Myth 3: Is Severe Car Hail Damage Too Expensive To Repair? Not necessarily. If your car has sustained severe damage from a hailstorm, it’s pretty logical to assume that these damages will be too expensive to fix.  The good news is not necessarily! Comprehensive auto insurance will pay for repairs or if the damage from the storm is deemed severe, the insurance company will total the car and provide financial assistance to purchase a new vehicle. That means there’s no reason not to seek out repairs. To learn more about the severe hail damage car: Austin Hailstorm Cracked Windshields, What To Do? Post-Massive Austin Hail Storm FAQs Myth 4: Will Severe Hail Damage Car Repair Take A Long Time? Severe hail damage car can be extensive, but that doesn’t mean that damage has to take months to complete.  It is true that many car owners had to wait months for a repair to take place and then another month or two for it to finish. But that’s usually the case with auto body shops and insurance pre-approved shops that don’t have enough technicians during a storm peak season. If you choose to work with an auto hail repair specialty shop it typically ensures you can get the work completed much sooner. The repair shop will determine the best method for repairing your vehicle depending on the extent of the damage. The industry-standard repair method for hail damage car is paintless dent repair (PDR). Sometimes your vehicle may also need paint repair and part replacement. If PDR is an acceptable option for your vehicle, it doesn’t take too long. Replacement parts and paint repair may take several weeks. Also, note that your insurance company can slow things down as they process the claim. To learn more about the repair time-related to hail damage: we are working on an article about factors that affect repair time of fixing hail damage on cars. Check back in a few weeks for details. Myth 5: Is All Damage From Hail The Same? Another myth is that all types of hail damage are the same. That is not the case. There are four primary types of damage. Dents are the most common type of hail damage regardless of the severity of a storm. The size and depth of the damage depend on the size and force that the hailstone was traveling at impact. Other types of hail damage car include paint damage, cracked glass, mirror damage, etc.  To learn more about the different types of hail damage car: What Does Hail Damage Look Like On A Car? Myth 6: Is Body Shop Vs Specialty Shop All The Same? There are a lot of body shops out there that will do hail damage car repair. However, these are often the most frustrating of locations to visit for this type of work. When a storm strikes, almost all body shops are fully booked and will take weeks if not months to take on new cars. A specialty shop is going to have a better ability to manage the capacity and complexities of hail damage car repair. So how to choose an auto hail repair shop?  To learn more about choosing the best hail damage car repair company: A Few Quick Tips To Help You Find The Best Hail Damage Car Repair Company Myth 7: Is Hail Repair The Same Everywhere? This is perhaps one of the most worrisome of all myths. If you have hail damage to your vehicle, you may have no idea about the various repair methods and which one is right for your car. All repair methods and shops are not equal. There are different hail damage car repair methods available and you should definitely check them out. To help you decide on a hail repair company: We have an article with easy-to-follow

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Celine Hobbs April 6, 2022
StormWise auto hail repair

6 Reasons StormWise is the Best in Car Hail Damage Repair

You’ve probably lived through a similar story: You hit the road on a rainy day – unwillingly, yet you knew you needed to do so – and buckle in for a slow drive home. Your wind shield wipers are at maximum speed because of the heavy downpour. Then, it happens. “Tap, tap, tap.” No, no one’s knocking on your car door; it’s the hail that’s heavily pelting your car with golf ball-sized ice. The large chunks of ice have now successfully dented your precious car. Unfortunately, you now need to get a car hail damage repair and you may be regretting leaving right away when your gut told you to stay put. The result wouldn’t have likely changed, though, because hail would still damage your car if it’s parked outside. Where can you get quality service and trusted advice for an affordable price, though? We’re here to help, at StormWise Automotive Hail Repair. What Makes Car Owners Love StormWise? Friendly & Professional Service At StormWise, we treat every customer like family. Getting your vehicle fixed is never a fun experience, but we go that extra mile to ensure that you are comfortable and that your daily life isn’t upended as we work to get you back on the road. We offer all customers on-site or in-store inspections, including options for a virtual inspection through video calls. Not only do we come to you, but our team also works around your schedule, regularly updating you on the repair’s progress so you can focus on the other important activities of your day. Shockingly convenient, right? Thought getting your car to StormWise experts would be challenging or time-consuming? Not on our watch. Our valet service can pick up your car and bring it back to you looking brand new without you needing to move your schedule around. Or, if you prefer, you can drive it down to meet us at a rental car shop and we will drive your car to the shop. Quality Repair Service Not only do you get taken care of, but your car becomes our top priority once it’s parked in our shop. We have the best Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) specialists and can remove dents quickly and efficiently. PDR involves taking your car apart so we gain access to the dented panels’ backside. Then we will use metal rods to massage the dents back into their original smooth shape. You also walk away with your car’s original paint warranty because our PDR system won’t damage your vehicle’s factory finish. The environment also benefits from this repair method because we don’t need to repaint your car and release toxic chemicals into the atmosphere. After we remove the dents, your car goes through a rigorous set of tests and inspections, performed by a 3-person team that makes sure your vehicle gets back to you looking brand new. Depending on the number of dents, this entire process usually takes a few hours to a few days, so that you can get your wheels back on the road in no time. What Do Car Owners Care About? With over 20 years experience in cars’ hail damage repair, we’d like to think we have heard it all. Knowing what car owners care about when they bring their car into our shop has helped us create the perfect combination of stress-free communication and efficiently reliable services. Quality We never sacrifice the quality of a repair for a quick turnaround or a quick buck. Our QA team inspects every point of your car before you get it back. All our PDRs also come with a lifetime warranty, so if one of the dents makes a comeback, you can bring it back to us anytime for a hassle-free fix. If we have to get a part replacement, we always seek OEM (manufacturer) parts to ensure your car gets the best quality parts and that your insurance will pay for it. Cost We know the shady history behind mechanics who charge you more than what’s necessary. At StormWise, you always get fair and honest pricing. Our team aims to always give you a fair price; it doesn’t matter if it’s PDR, windshield repair, parts replacement, or anything else related to your car repair. Our PDR pricing is based on the standard book rates that insurance companies use, so you can rest assured that they will pick up the bill for what’s needed. In the interest of transparency, we also give you a complete list of materials we used and their corresponding costs. We also neither overstay our welcome nor waste time – your vehicle’s dents get fixed in the most efficient and effective way possible. Support StormWise always takes care of you whenever we can. We understand that there are already so many things occupying your time, so we want to help lighten your burden. When your insurance company gets involved, you can usually expect a lot of back-and-forth phone calls, but not with StormWise. On your behalf, we communicate with your insurance provider throughout the entire process and we work with them to file a claim or schedule an adjuster appointment. This gives you more time to focus on other matters in your life and less time spent on the phone. Have errands to run, but your car is in our shop? No problem, we will offer you a free rental car if you don’t already have one. Gone are the days of rescheduling your entire day because your vehicle needs repairs. Instead, we make sure that you know when your car will be ready and keep you in the loop so you know your repair schedule. Care StormWise not only cares about getting your car back in tip-top shape; we also care about our loyal customers and how we can offer the best possible service and experience to them. We pride ourselves on being a customer-first company, and we achieve that by always being transparent and straightforward. But don’t take our word for it;

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Celine Hobbs November 9, 2021
sales-person-explains-how-hail-repair-works-to-a-customer

A Few Quick Tips to Help You Find the Best Hail Damage Car Repair Company

What should you consider when looking for a hail damage car repair company near you? Every year, hundreds of cars get seriously damaged from hailstorms. If you are warned ahead of time, you can take precautions like covering up your car or putting it in a garage. However, storms can sometimes catch you off guard, leaving your car at the mercy of the elements. If your car has sustained damage from a hail storm, fear not. Repair options are available, and depending on how bad the damage is, techniques such as paintless dent repair can restore your car to its original condition without impacting its value. In order to get a good repair job, though, you must find the best repair shop near you. Read on to learn some basic tips for deciding which hail damage car repair company to trust. Look at Reputable Shops With Certifications and Reviews While heading to a reputable shop may seem obvious, many people choose less-than-ideal shops for a variety of reasons. You may get seduced by cheap pricing, fast repair times, or promises that the repair can be done with minimally invasive and less costly methods. The grim reality is, you get what you pay for–and disreputable shops often perform low-quality repairs. So how do you tell if a shop or mechanic is trustworthy enough for a hail damage car repair? There are a few telltale signs. First, do research online and look at their customer feedback and reviews. If the reviews are overwhelmingly negative, or if there are only a handful of them, you should think twice before choosing that specific auto repair shop. You should also be wary of businesses with far too many positive reviews—unreliable businesses often make fake reviews to artificially enhance their reputation. To find a reputable shop, look for a mostly positive collection of 50+ reviews that include details, not just short phrases like “Great!” or “Best shop ever!”. Another thing to watch out for is the company’s actual accomplishments. If a repair shop has been in business for many years and has extensive experience in hail damage car repair, they are most likely capable of repairing your damaged vehicle. Likewise, look out for shops that have a large number of satisfied customers and deal with negative reviews in a caring, compassionate manner that indicates they are interested in providing good service. Finally, a reputable shop will be able to explain its methods, values, and general practices. Assess Your Options by Conducting Your Own Research on the Best Repair Services in Your Area Many people ask their insurance for options of repair shops. The truth is it’s usually not a good idea to use the insurance preferred shops. No matter what your insurance recommends, though, you always want to look for a company that can do the best repair for your car. Try to follow the process below: Find the repair shop that can do the best job. Check and see if this repair shop has experience working with your insurance company. See if the adjuster has any suggestions against using a specific company— this would be a huge red flag. As long as your insurance will work with it, proceed—do not use an insurance preferred shop. Insurance Approved Repair shops may be fully qualified, but they are “approved” to keep the insurance best interest, not yours. By sending customers to these shops, insurance companies have full control over their costs, such as how much they can pay a technician, using used parts instead of OEM (new and manufactured) parts, and mandating that you pay your deductible. Ask For a Quote to Make Sure Your Shop is Experienced in Hail Damage Car Repair To the untrained eye, dents from hail damage may seem pretty easy to fix. After all, they’re just dents, right? Many inexperienced mechanics will make this assumption and perform repair jobs that only partially satisfy your vehicle’s repair needs, or just hide the damage and not actually fix it. Procedures such as pushing out dents using force and then covering the remaining damage with wax and paint are common. Mechanics that are slightly more experienced may use overly invasive (and more expensive) methods of traditional dent repair, even when it’s not necessary. Remember that hail damage car repair, especially paintless dent repair, requires well-trained and experienced hands, quality tools, and extensive knowledge to be accomplished correctly. Depending on the severity of the damage, auto hail repair may involve PDR, traditional dent repair, part replacement, repainting, and more. It is important to find a shop that has had experience doing all these things, and knows enough about hail damage car repair to identify and use the best methods to fix your car. Look for well-established shops near you that specialize in hail damage car repair. For instance, Stormwise has been serving as Colorado’s premier hail damage car repair service since 2012. They can repair your car more efficiently and cost-effectively than a shop who has only been in the hail repair business for a shorter time period. If you are unsure whether to trust a certain shop or not, ask them for a quote and see how they assess the damage. Insurance and qualified repair shops price PDR cost according to the PDR pricing matrix. If the shop seems to be asking for random, unexplainable upcharges and fees for procedures that don’t make sense (for example, a full repainting when only one panel is damaged)–or conversely, quotes incredibly low fees–it’s a tell-tale sign that they don’t have a standard procedure for dealing with hail repair, which will prevent them from repairing your car properly. An experienced shop will be able to quickly diagnose and price your PDR cost. They can readily explain the details of how the procedure works and why certain measures are being taken to fix all the identified damage. If you are curious about what an industry-standard quote would be for your car, you can try this free hail damage car

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Celine Hobbs November 2, 2021
paintless dent repair for hail damage

How Much Is Paintless Dent Repair for Hail Damage?

Your car got damaged in a hailstorm and you’re now looking for a way to get it repaired. After performing extensive research, you’ve decided it’s best to get it fixed using paintless dent repair. It’s non-intrusive, less expensive, more environmentally friendly, and is often able to retain your car’s original value and paint job. How much is paintless dent repair for hail damage though? The costs associated with paintless dent repair for hail damage can depend on a variety of factors. These include where the car got damaged, how much damage there is, and how severe these are. Additionally, the price would depend on which hail damage auto repair shop you go to and how your insurance decides to cover it. Read on to find out all about the money side of paintless dent repair, and how you can get the best service at the best price possible. Watch out for markups that incur extra costs and make sure to got to expert repair shops when you inquire about how much is paintless dent repair for hail damage. The Average Cost of Paintless Dent Repair   Based on our database – compiled from over 20 years of experience –the average cost of a full paintless dent repair for hail damage is around $6,453. It can run as high as $16,875, or as low as $2,511. If the damage is minimal, it can be less. This averages out to about $50-$150 per dent, which is much cheaper than traditional dent repair (which can average $125-$325 per dent). However, identifying the total cost isn’t as simple as counting dents. There are several more factors to consider. The PDR Pricing Matrix When checking how much is paintless dent repair for hail damage, the cost can usually be identified using the PDR pricing matrix. The matrix takes into consideration the extent and placement of the damage as well as several other components to calculate its price. Regular Factors The PDR pricing matrix essentially works by counting the size and number of dents on each part of your car. There are four categories of dent sizes: Dime Quarter Nickel Half dollar These are further divided by how many dents there are in a given area, which is counted on a severity scale. The severity rating goes through 9 levels, ranging from very light (1-5 dents per area of the car) to ceiling (201- 250 dents per area of the car). Each combination of dent size, severity, and location has its own price range. These are then tallied up to estimate your car’s total repair cost. Extra Costs to Consider When Checking How Much Is Paintless Dent Repair for Hail Damage Of course, cars occasionally have damage that may need heavier or specialized repairs that the pricing matrix doesn’t include. In these cases, extra costs are applied accordingly. Before checking how much is paintless dent repair for hail damage, keep in mind these common special markups that include: Glue Pull Glue Pull is a special technique that involves applying hot glue to a tab placed on the damaged area of the car. Then, the tab is pulled to restore the original shape of the dented area. This procedure usually runs at a 25% markup. Oversized Dents These are dents that are bigger than the half-dollar limit set in the PDR Pricing Matrix. They typically run at $40 extra per dent.   Aluminum and High-Strength Steel (HSS) For cars with panels made out of high-strength steel or aluminum, extra work is needed to effectively repair the dents. A 25% markup is usually applied to the cost calculated in the pricing matrix. Extra Considerations There are several other special cases that may add extra cost to your paintless dent repair procedure, such as double metal or cars with extended roofs. There may also be cases where extra work needs to be done beyond PDR, such as part replacement (like for a damaged windshield), or extra paint job or minor bodywork to smooth things up after PDR is done. These will accumulate extra costs that need to be taken into consideration. If you are wondering how your particular case stacks up, you can get an estimate by using our free hail damage car repair cost calculator. Insurance Now that you have a better idea of how much is paintless dent repair for hail damage, you’re likely thinking about how much you will personally have to pay. After all, insurance can make the difference between shelling out thousands of dollars and walking away at almost zero cost on your end. Most comprehensive coverage insurance plans will cover paintless dent repair, and a reputable hail repair shop like StormWise will work with your insurance to make sure all damage is covered in the estimate by your insurer. Insurance typically calculates its costs based on the same PDR Pricing Matrix. If you’re worried about whether your insurance covers paintless dent repair, here are several things you need to keep in mind: Make Sure You Have Comprehensive Coverage If you live in a hail-prone area like Colorado, having a comprehensive coverage plan is imperative. This type of coverage covers weather-related events such as hail, helping keep repair costs low to none. Comprehensive Coverage Plans usually cover paintless dent repair for hail damage as well as other regular costs associated with it. Report the Damage Immediately Some people make the mistake of not reporting mild to moderate hail damage because they think it’s not that big of a deal. They may also be trying to avoid raising their insurance rates. Others may think it’s a waste of time to fix their car when there’s a risk it might be damaged again later on. Before you inquire about repair options or how much is paintless dent repair for hail damage, it is important to report the damage first – as soon as it happens. Below are several reasons: Comprehensive Coverage will not raise your rates for weather-induced damage, so you don’t have to worry

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Celine Hobbs October 26, 2021
technician doing quality check for auto hail repair on cars

What Are Some Car Repairs That Are Best Done by Experts Near You?

With so much information available online, it’s very trendy these days to DIY anything and everything.  A lot of people think they can save time, hassle, and money by DIY-ing. But DIYers can actually end up with a bigger headache than they started with. They often miss small, important steps, or they may repair something creatively when it’s important to do it by the book. When it comes to car repair, some simple things, like oil or tire changes, can be done by yourself. Other things are most reliable when done by a professional, and can even be outright dangerous for an amateur to touch.  Remember, a car is a very complex machine that contains potentially explosive, toxic, and corrosive materials. Do you really want something like that to be fixed incorrectly?  So What Should I Not DIY? As a general rule of thumb, any repair or alteration that requires professional knowledge of a specific car make or model, or specialty tools or equipment, should be handled by professionals. Many cars may have specificities that you need to be aware of—their engine may be in an unusual place, or they may only take a certain type of coolant or oil. Let a professional handle it before you make a costly or even dangerous mistake.  With that being said, here are 5 auto repairs you should absolutely not try to do on your own.  1. PDR (Paintless Dent Repair) Paintless dent repair, or PDR, is a non-traditional technique to fix dents in cars. It is particularly useful for car hail damage repair, where there may be hundreds of little dents all over the car. While traditional dent repair involves putting filler on top of a dent and then repainting it, PDR involves removing the paneling inside the car and then using special equipment to reshape the metal back into its original form. Done properly, this could recreate the car’s shape, without the need for sanding or repainting. It is more environmentally friendly and costs less money. Although you may be tempted to try removing dents yourself, this technique is highly specialized and requires equipment and expertise that a DIYer doesn’t have at home. If you are interested in getting PDR, you can contact us at StormWise to get an estimate near you.  [Get an Estimate] 2. Transmission Repair and Rebuilding The transmission is one of the most important pieces of equipment in the car, and repairs for it can be expensive. Plus, you may not want to risk driving a car with a bad transmission to an auto shop.  But, a transmission is made up of hundreds or even thousands of tiny little parts, and each of them is involved in a very complex and important process. If your car is automatic, it gets even more complicated. It takes the qualified expertise of a mechanic to understand how to fix your transmission properly.  Plus, we at StormWise offer free valet services to deliver your car to our shop, so you don’t have to worry about driving in dangerous conditions. [Learn More] 3. Electrical Issues DIY-ing electrical problems can lead to anything from electric shocks, burns, or even fires and explosions.  Even if you think you know your way around electrical equipment, you should still avoid dealing with auto electrical issues yourself. Many modern cars’ electrical systems are controlled by a computer, and this introduces many complicated factors.  You need knowledge on how your specific car’s system works, on top of general knowledge about electrical equipment and computers. With such a finicky, precise system, one wrong wire could mess up the whole thing. Leave this to an auto shop near you and skip the hassle.  4. Air Conditioning  Air conditioning is so ubiquitous, you may make the mistake of thinking it’s simple. But it actually takes a lot of knowledge and expertise to properly fix a car AC system. Not only is AC made up of a lot of tiny, precise parts, it also introduces it’s new, unique set of problems. In addition to involving dangerous chemicals, an AC system needs to be properly sealed at all times in order to work effectively. Exposing it to the elements can lead to corrosion that damages the AC to a point where it’s no longer repairable. Plus, diagnosing the problem with AC is very tricky. It could be as simple as refilling your refrigerant, or it could require a complex procedure that involves specialized dyes to spot tiny leaks in the system.  With so much going on, it will save you more time and money in the long run to skip the guesswork. Visit an auto repair shop near you to get a proper diagnosis and treatment. 5. Windshield Replacement Cracked or broken windshields are a common problem that compromises a vehicle’s safety, and replacement can be anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars.  However, a windshield replacement should absolutely be done by a professional. They require specialized tools, a delicate process, and knowledge of the proper windshield type and size for your vehicle.  Improper repairs and replacements can lead to shattered glass, leaks into your interior, or even your car collapsing in on itself. This is definitely a job you want to leave to a mechanic or a glass specialist. Why You Shouldn’t DIY PDR At StormWise, we specialize in repairing dents caused by hail, and one of the most effective ways to do this is through paintless dent repair. With over 20 years of experience in PDR, we can help you restore your car and maintain its value. Plus, it’s more affordable, environmentally friendly, and effective than traditional dent repair.  Although the small dents caused by hail may look easy to fix, PDR requires expertise and special equipment. It’s important to assess if your vehicle is eligible for this treatment, and doing dent repair improperly can cause further damage to your vehicle. Visit Us and Skip The Hassle Why even bother trying to do dent repair yourself when you can save

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Celine Hobbs October 7, 2021
Post-fix-hail-damaged-car-travelling-by-sunny-road

Why Are Hail-Damaged Cars So Expensive to Fix?

If you live in Texas or Colorado, hailstorms are fairly common, popping up when you least expect them. Your vehicle could be caught in what seems like a light hailstorm, but the cost of fixing the “light” damage could still be way more than you initially thought. Let’s explore the reasons why fixing your hail-damaged car can be on the pricey side.  Reasons That Make Hail Damage Repair Expensive:  The cost of repairs is relative to several factors such as: The severity of repairs Method of repair Parts replacement Labor expenses Sales tax A reputable and experienced repair shop, such as StormWise, will break the cost down into these simple categories. Transparency is important when you’re dealing with the repair cost of a vehicle, which can quickly rack up to be expensive. The Severity of Repairs Say you forgot to park your car in the garage (if you have one) and all of a sudden a powerful hailstorm looms over the horizon. Hail starts crashing down in full force, one lump of ice after the other, pelting your car. All you can do is watch through the window, and you know the aftermath is not going to be pretty. You can almost see all the dents as they happen—sometimes even cracks in your windows! After the storm passes, you walk outside and survey the damage: sure enough, there are dents and cracks all over your car.  After a bad hailstorm, it’s common to have hundreds of dents scattered across the hull of your car. If the damage is severe enough, you’re looking at an expensive repair job. So, where do you go from here? What exactly makes the repair work expensive? Method of Repair In today’s world, paintless dent repair (PDR) is the industry-standard method for repairing hail damage dents on your vehicle. This is the most efficient and effective way to make repairs, being less intrusive and much faster than traditional dent repair. Both PDR and traditional dent repair are difficult. PDR is particularly difficult for repairing aluminum panels.  Because of the difficulty—the time and labor PDR uses—repairing your hail damage is going to be expensive, depending on the severity of the damage. However, the PDR method will produce the best-finished results. PDR is also great because it doesn’t void your factory paint warranty.  With StormWise, the PDR cost is figured by a pricing matrix, which takes into account the time and technician labor it takes to get all the repairs done. This is broken down by the panels of the vehicle: how many dents per panel, and how severe the dents themselves are—meaning how deep and wide they are. For example, if one of your door panels has 1 to 5 quarter-sized dents, the cost to repair just that one panel would be estimated at around $100. If the number and severity of the dents are worse per panel, the price per panel will continue to increase. After each panel of the vehicle is assessed, the PDR costs of each are added together—you then have an accurate estimate of the total repair cost. Parts Replacement Sometimes the hail damage is so severe that the particular damaged part is beyond repair and has to be replaced. This is figured into the total repair cost as well, and, depending on the part, the cost can get very expensive. If a part is damaged and has to be replaced, your repair shop will simply order a new part, with the cost being the retail price of that part—plus labor. Often, there are particular parts on your vehicle that need to be replaced if the hailstorm was bad enough. A common replacement includes the glass on vehicles, such as the headlights and taillights, the windshields and windows. The technicians will assess the damage, figure out what needs to be replaced, and the cost of replacement is added into the repair estimate. Depending on how many parts were replaced, the cost can get on the pricey side as well. Labor Expenses Labor expense is a factor that ties the whole repair process together. Someone’s got to do the work, right? In addition to what we’ve covered so far, another cost that goes along with labor expenses is removed and install cost (R&I). This cost can quickly make your repair estimate go up. R&I entails having to remove certain parts of your vehicle in order to make adequate repairs to that part. Sometimes repairs can’t be done while the car is in one piece, so technicians have to take extra steps in the process, which will ultimately raise the repair cost. The R&I cost varies on a case-by-case basis. Depending on the make, model, and year of the car, technicians have to search a database that consists of different cars and their parts in order to figure out the R&I time. Figuring out this R&I time utilizes the figure, “book time,” which is the time and labor it takes to remove the part, make the repairs, and install it back onto the vehicle. The “book time” figure is used by the repair shop—as well as your insurance company—in order to calculate the final repair estimate of your vehicle. So, again, depending on how much R&I time and general labor it takes to repair certain parts of your vehicle, the total repair cost could end up being more expensive. Sales Tax The final piece of the repair cost puzzle is sales tax. Along with the other cost metrics, sales tax will vary on a case-by-case basis. This figure is calculated by where the repair shop is located, which city, town, state, etc. If you happen to live in Colorado, the only sales tax you have to pay is on your vehicle itself and not on labor costs. Make Sure You Have Comprehensive Insurance! When shopping around for auto insurance coverage, make sure you include a comprehensive plan. With comprehensive coverage, any damage that occurs to your vehicle outside of your control—such as hail damage—should be

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Celine Hobbs October 6, 2021
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