Measuring hail size: How it translates to car damage

Know when it’s “Hail No” for your car

In the heart of Hail Alley, residents often find themselves exclaiming either ‘Hail Yeah’ or ‘Hail No’.

Though it sounds playful, for car owners in this region, car hail damage is no light matter especially when you’ve got quarter-sized dents or, even worse, golf ball-sized craters on your beloved ride. But worry not. With Colorado Hail Claims by your side, you’ll navigate the aftermath of hailstorms like a pro.

Decoding hail sizes

From Peas to Softballs Hailstones have quite the range in size. While most hailstones measure under 2 inches in diameter, here’s a size breakdown to put things in perspective.

Pea = 0.25 inches: Mostly harmless unless coupled with ferocious winds.
Marble = 0.50 inches: Starting to notice.
Quarter = 1 inch: This is where vehicle damage typically kicks off.
Golf Ball = 1.75 inches: Potential for significant hail car damage.
Baseball = 2.75 inches: Shattered windows and heavy denting territory.
Softball = 4 inches: Potential for major damage
Grapefruit = 4.5 inches Potential for major damage

In fact, the largest hailstone on record fell in Vivian, South Dakota, in 2010, measuring an astonishing 8 inches in diameter and weighing 1.93 pounds!

Storm season and hail forecast

Spring and early summer are peak times for hailstorms. With today’s advanced meteorological tools, forecasts for hail are more accurate than ever. It’s wise to stay updated during the storm season to ensure you have ample time to protect your car from potential damage.

Weather patterns and impacts:

Nature’s curveballs: Not every hailstorm is a car’s nightmare. But statistics show that the largest, most damaging hailstones preferentially rain down near the storm’s center. And as much as we respect a storm spectacle, the aftermath can be challenging, with cosmetic and internal vehicle damage.

Shielding your ride:

More than a simple “Hail No.” Every car owner in Hail Alley should have a hail game plan.

Here are some handy tips:

Structured Shelter: A good old garage or carport is a car’s best friend against hail.

Hail Covers: No garage? No problem! Invest in a hail-resistant car cover.

Stay Alert: Tune in to hail forecasts, especially during peak season.

Some Stark Hail Alley Statistics Hailstorms with damages exceeding $1 billion aren’t rare. A chilling example is the 2017

Colorado hailstorm, with damages ringing up to a staggering $2.3 billion. That’s a lot of “Hail No” moments!

Car hail damage – contact Colorado Hail Claims

In the end, whether you’re fist-pumping the air shouting ‘Hail Yeah’ after a narrowly missed hailstorm or sighing in dismay with a ‘Hail No’ upon discovering your car’s fresh dents, remember: Colorado Hail Claims is the go-to for all your auto hail damage repairs.
When Mother Nature throws her icy curveballs, you can count on a team that combines expertise with a touch of fun.

With Colorado Hail Claims, your car’s recovery from hail car damage is just a call away. So, whether it’s a hailstorm celebration or consolation, remember, you’re never alone in Hail Alley.

Reach out to our friendly team. The first step is to complete our free, no-obligation Hail Damage Assessment Form  and our advisors will be in touch within 24hrs.