How to Protect Your Windshield from Hail

Hail is a weather phenomenon that takes shape as storm winds propel water droplets into chilly high-altitude zones, causing frozen pellets (or hailstones) to cascade from the sky. Hailstones can be small, harmless beads or large, menacing projectiles that dent your vehicle or shatter your windshield. Given these risks, it’s worth knowing how to protect a windshield from hail, particularly in hail-prone regions.

Let’s explore the most effective strategies to protect your vehicle from these frosty assailants.

Windshield Hail Damage - 11 Ways to Protect Your Windshield

Hail is one of the most common causes of windshield damage, which can result in costly repairs and even put your vehicle out of commission for a while. Here are some tips on how to protect your windshield from hail.

1. Watch Weather Alerts

To prevent hail damage, pay attention to weather reports or enable phone alerts for real-time hail updates. This allows you to take early action, seeking shelter or using protective measures to safeguard your vehicle's windshield.

2. Avoid Driving

Hail can strike suddenly, leaving drivers with limited options for shelter. Deciding not to drive during predicted hail reduces exposure to potential windshield damage. If you need to commute during a hailstorm, consider taking public transportation.

3. Seek Covered Parking

If you’re already on the road, finding a garage or parking lot with a roof will shield your entire vehicle from hailstones. If other options aren't available, parking under a large tree can be a last resort, but only if there's no intense wind or lightning that could break branches and damage your vehicle.

4. Purchase a Hail Cover

Investing in a car cover with padding will protect the windshield from hail. These covers are engineered to absorb the impact of hailstones, significantly reducing the risk of damage. They're a convenient and effective solution, especially when your car is parked outdoors for extended periods.

5. Roll Out the Tarp or Blankets

You might wonder if you can use a tarp to protect your car from hail. Absolutely! Keeping tarps or blankets in your car offers a quick solution for protecting the windshield from hail in unexpected situations. Drape thick, heavy-duty tarps or blankets over the windshield and windows to absorb the impact of hailstones. Use a bungee cord to keep the covers in place.

6. Grab Your Floor Mats

What can you put on your windshield to protect it from hail when you don’t have hail covers, tarps, or blankets? Grab your car floor mats! They're a quick, makeshift solution for protecting your windshield from hail. Sure, they're not perfect, but they'll defend against those smaller hailstones until you can find better cover.

7. Use Cardboard

Sometimes, you’ll need to be more resourceful. Here's how to protect the windshield from hail with cardboard boxes you might already have at home.

Choose a thick piece that can withstand the rain that often accompanies hailstorms. Ensure it's big enough to cover your entire windshield. Trim or fold for a perfect fit and secure it with your windshield wipers or tape. Cardboard will absorb the impact of hailstones and provide substantial protection.

8. Bubble Wrap

If you have cardboard boxes from store-bought items, chances are there's some bubble wrap in there, too. Take advantage of it by taping it over your windshield. Just like it cushioned your packaged items, this bubble wrap can provide a protective layer against hail.

9. Buffer with Bags of Potted Soil

This tactic might be the most unconventional when deciding how to protect a windshield from hail. Arrange several bags of potted soil closely together over the windshield. Ensure they cover the entire area and are stable enough to stay in place.

10. Conduct Regular Inspections

Check for cracks and chips regularly. Timely repairs of any vulnerabilities can prevent further damage during a hailstorm, maintaining the windshield's integrity and resilience against harsh weather.

11. Get Insurance Coverage

Get auto insurance that covers hail damage. Adequate coverage can save you unexpected repair or replacement costs, providing peace of mind and some financial security.

Trust Auto Glass Now for Reliable Windshield Repair

The best way to deal with potential hail damage is to plan ahead and prevent it from happening in the first place. Following the tips above can help you protect your windshield from hail during a storm.

If your windshield does get damaged by hail or some other mishap, turn to the professionals at Auto Glass Now for quality windshield repair or windshield replacement. Visit one of our many locations near you and discover why we’re the top choice for auto glass repair services.