Hailstorms are an all-too-common phenomenon—and something that’s becoming more frequent in virtually every area due to climate change. This is not good news for your precious ride’s paintwork.
There are some excellent paint protection products available to help ward off scratches and minor scrapes. But does paint protection protect against hail? The short answer is yes, it can do. But to fully understand how you can improve resilience against those bullet-like balls of ice that fall unannounced from the heavens, we’ll need to delve a little deeper into the science…
There are two types of paint protection—PPF (paint protection film) and ceramic coating. Both are technologically advanced options that work in different ways.
PPF, which is sometimes called clear bra, is made from cutting-edge polyurethane and applied to the paintwork. It creates a flexible layer that has properties that can absorb minor impacts.
The other type of paint protection is ceramic coating. It’s important to know that we’re talking about a professional installation, not the so-called “ceramic” option that can be bought for DIY use at a car store. The best professional ceramic coatings add a robust clear layer that adheres to the paintwork and remains in place for many years. This prevents the elements and any debris from reaching the actual paintwork, helping to keep it pristine.
It's important to know that no type of paint protection can offer complete protection from damage. Large hailstones will potentially dent vehicle panels, which would then require a repair or a replacement.
PPF provides a cushioning effect that can prevent damage from small hailstones. The cushioning effect helps stop the ice from reaching the paintwork. Even if the PPF itself becomes marked, applying a little heat allows it to morph back to its original smooth form—hence the term “self-healing”, one of the selling points of the product.
Ceramic coating is applied by hand and cures to a super-hard layer. It’s extremely resilient, meaning that small hailstones should simply bounce away, leaving the surface undamaged.
The ultimate option for protecting the paintwork from hail and other damage is to use the two together. PPF is applied first, creating a shock-absorbent layer. Then ceramic coating is applied over the top, adding super-hard protection. Together, they work exceptionally well to keep the paintwork in excellent condition—including preventing damage from smaller hailstones.
Another option is to apply ceramic coating over a car wrap. These are typically used as a cost-effective and dramatic way to alter the appearance of a vehicle. You could change the color entirely, add racing shades, advertising, or even a special effect—such as metallic, matte, or go for the tactile velvet vibe. While wraps have their own paintwork protective properties, teaming this with the wonder of ceramic coating is an outstanding way to guard against damage from hail, rock chips, and other debris.
Ceramic coating also has excellent hydrophobic properties. This has the added advantage of making a vehicle easier to keep clean—meaning you can spend less time washing and more time cruising—a win-win situation in all respects, we think you’ll agree.
Florida paint protection experts, Auto SuperShield, are well-versed in the ultimate PPF-ceramic coating combos to help protect paintwork from damage. Our expertise and use of the highest quality, proven products can go a long way toward warding off scratches and scrapes from hail damage.
Before every installation, we’ll fully explain the capabilities and limits of each paint protection option.
Head to https://www.autosupershield.com/ceramic-coating to find out more and call our team today for a no-obligation discussion.
About how we can help with your vehicles specific needs.
Contact us
