Professional Hail Damage Repair Hanover PA

1. STEP by step guide

2. Initial assessment

3. File your Claim

4. Get your estimate

5. repair vehicle

1.  Step-by-step guide:

When a vehicle owner receives hail damage on their car or truck, it’s imperative they file their claim in a timely fashion.

At Smooth Finishes Hail and Dent Team we recognize most people aren’t clear on the steps necessary with regard to an automotive hail claim.

 We’ve provided a step by step guide to walk you through the complete hail damage claim and repair process.

A few things of note:

A. You can cho0se whatever shop you desire.

B. Deductibles are your responsibility, but, as an independent repair facility, we can offer assistance.

 

2. Assess the damage:

You have two options at this point:

  1. Take clear pictures of the hail damage on your car.
  2. Visit a paintless dent repair shop and have professionals inspect the hail dents.
 

Evidence of hail damage is required before processing your claim.

Having a dent repair technician help with initial inspection is recommended.

Hail damage repair professionals can determine whether the damage can be fixed using paintless dent repair (PDR) or other methods.

3. File an Insurance Claim:

With an accurate assessment of the hail damage, you can file an insurance claim.

Having a well-documented hail damage report will help your insurance company process your claim faster.

You will need the following:

  • Date of loss.
  • Vehicle information.
  • Policy number.
  • Insurance co telephone number.
  • Any proof of damage.
 
(By law, the insurance companies are allowed to ask where you plan on repairing your vehicle, but CAN NOT tell you where to have it repaired.)

 

4. Obtain Repair Estimates:

Once claim has been filed, your insurance company will try to direct your next steps.

Sometimes they want to inspect it themselves, sometimes they will send you to repair shop they have a relationship with. 

You are allowed to have your vehicle estimated and or repaired at the shop of your choice. 

A hail damage repair company that specializes in Automotive hail repair is specialized and will give you a far more complete estimate of damages.

5. Seek Professional Repairs:

It’s best to repair hail damage using paintless dent repair (PDR) as it preserves your car’s original finish and helps retain proper value.

At Smooth Finishes Hail and Dent team, we have the experience and talent to properly repair your vehicle to pre-loss condition.

Our team has repaired thousands of hail damaged vehicles.  We know how to handle difficult insurance companies and we understand the complete claim to repair process.

Give us a call today!

 

Extreme Hail REpair

A car that has been broken down and is in the process of being dismantled.
A car is parked in the garage with its hood up.
A car is parked in the garage with its hood up.

Smooth Finishes Hail and Dent Team: Experts in Repairing Hail Damaged Vehicles

Smooth Finishes Hail and Dent Team is the only leading auto hail damage repair shop in the Pennsylvania, Maryland and West Virginia areas with the talent and experience to repair all types of automotive hail damage. With a team of experienced technicians who have over 55 years of combined experience in repairing hail damaged vehicles, we have established a reputation for providing high-quality repairs and exceptional customer service.

In this article, we’ll discuss the cost of automotive hail damage, the number of claims for hail damage each year, and what you can do if your vehicle is damaged in a hailstorm.

The Cost of Automotive Hail Damage

Automotive hail damage can be costly, with repairs ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the severity of the damage. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the average annual cost of hail damage to vehicles in the United States is around $1 billion. 

At Smooth Finishes Hail and Dent Team, we understand the frustration and inconvenience that hail damage can cause. That’s why we use state-of-the-art equipment, understand the insurance process and are trained in the proper techniques to repair your vehicle quickly and effectively, ensuring that it looks as good as new.

The Number of Claims for Hail Damage Each Year

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), there are approximately 235,000 insurance claims for hail damage to vehicles in the United States each year.

While the number of claims for hail damage varies from year to year and from state to state, it’s clear that hailstorms can cause significant damage to vehicles and lead to a high number of insurance claims. At Smooth Finishes Hail and Dent Team, we work closely with insurance companies to ensure that your claim is processed quickly and that you receive the repairs you need to get back on the road.

What to Do if Your Vehicle is Damaged in a Hailstorm

If your vehicle is damaged in a hailstorm, the first thing you should do is contact your insurance company to file a claim. Your insurance company will likely ask you to take photos of the damage and provide an estimate of the cost of repairs.

Once you’ve filed a claim, you can bring your vehicle to Smooth Finishes Hail and Dent Team for a free estimate. Our experienced technicians will assess the damage to your vehicle and provide you with an accurate estimate of the cost of repairs.

At Smooth Finishes Hail and Dent Team, we use a variety of techniques to repair hail damage, including paintless dent repair (PDR) and traditional auto body repair methods. PDR is a highly effective method for repairing minor dents and dings caused by hail, while traditional auto body repair methods may be necessary for more severe damage.

Final Thoughts

At Smooth Finishes Hail and Dent Team, we are experts in repairing hail damaged vehicles. With near 55 years of combined experience, our technicians have the knowledge and expertise to restore your vehicle to its pre-damaged condition quickly and effectively. If your vehicle has been damaged in a hailstorm, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free estimate. We’ll work closely with your insurance company to ensure that you receive the repairs you need to get back on the road as soon as possible.

Hail Damage Repair Specialists

Ceramic Pro Elite Hanover’s Hail Repair Team is your reliable and trusted source for the best hail damage repair in Hanover, PA. We have a combined 70 years of experience repairing hail damaged cars, and our team of expert technicians are certified to provide the highest quality auto hail damage repairs. We use the latest paintless dent tools and techniques to repair hail damage, and we only use OEM parts to ensure that your car is returned to its original condition.

Best Auto Hail Repair team in pa

Our hail and dent team is proud to be the leading provider of auto hail damage repair in the PA and Mid Atlantic Region. Our team of experienced and certified technicians are experts in repairing all types of hail damage, and we use the latest tools and techniques to ensure that your car is returned to its original condition. We understand that hail damage can be stressful, and we will work quickly and efficiently to repair your car so that you can get back on the road.

A picture of the back side of a car.

WHy choose SF hail and DENT team?

 

A list of reasons why Smooth Finishes Hail and Dent Team should be your choice for your automotive hail repair company of choice.

 

Each of our owners has over 25 years experience in the automotive hail repair industry.  29 years and 28 years.

 

  • All of the owners have owned their own business in the automotive industry during this time.
  • Combined hail estimates written over that time? Easily over 5o00.
  • Approximate number of hail and dent repair jobs completed by team? 25ooo.
  • We have run jobsites that had hundreds of vehicles repaired in a few months.
  • Our team is proficient in all of the estimating software available. We have used Autadex, Webest, CCC1, Mobiletech  RX, DingStinger etc. 
  • We know when to push a vehicle to auto body repair if we believe it is in the best interest of the customer.
  • We will always do what’s best for you, the customer.
  • One of the owners also owns a Ceramic Pro Elite dealership. We will be able to handle all Ceramic coating replacements.
  • Two of the owners have been trained in automotive painting.  They understand the process and will do it right.
  • We will fight for you. The repair needs to be correct and the insurance company will handle it if you allow us to negotiate and hold them responsible.
  • All work is a lifetime guarantee on our quality. 
  • We have loaners available.
  • We rebate up to $500 on every job over $3000.00.
  • Ask about our hail referral program.

Automotive hail repair insurance providers.

Did you know ALL of the following (there are more!) insurance companies use SMOOTH FINISHES HAIL AND DENT TEAM?

State Farm, GEICO, Progressive, Allstate, Nationwide, Liberty Mutual, USAA, American Family Insurance, Travelers, Farmers Insurance, Esurance, MetLife, Erie Insurance, The Hartford, Amica Mutual Insurance, CSAA Insurance Group, Auto-Owners Insurance, Safeco Insurance, National General Insurance, AAA, Kemper Corporation, The General Insurance, Shelter Insurance, American National Insurance Company, Mercury Insurance. 

Our team has worked will almost every one of these hail insurance providers over the last 30 years. All names and logos are trademarked by their respective companies.

Why is paintless dent
(Hail Repair) Important?


No one wants their car to be damaged, but unfortunately, hailstorms are a common occurrence in many parts of the world. If your car is caught in a hailstorm, it’s important to call Smooth Finishes hail and dent team as soon as possible. Here’s why:


  • Preserves Original Finish: PDR preserves the original paint finish of the vehicle, which means no need for repainting and ensures a more seamless repair. 

  • Cost-Effective: PDR is often less expensive than traditional dent repair methods that require repainting, making it a more affordable option for hail damage repairs.

  • Faster Repair Time: PDR can be completed in a shorter amount of time than traditional repair methods, which means you can get your vehicle back faster. Insurance companies tend to measure their preferred providers by cycle time.  We help this tremendously.

  • Higher Resale Value: Vehicles with original paint are often more desirable to buyers, which means that PDR repairs can help maintain the resale value of the vehicle. 

  • Environmentally Friendly: PDR is an environmentally friendly option as it does not require the use of paint or harsh chemicals.

  • Convenient: PDR is a mobile service, and technicians can often come to your location to perform repairs, making it a more convenient option for busy car owners.

  • Precision Repair: PDR technicians use specialized tools to carefully massage the dents out, resulting in a precise repair that leaves no trace of the damage. 

  • Insurance Preferred: Many insurance companies prefer PDR repairs as they are often less expensive than traditional methods, and preserve the vehicle’s original finish.

  • Long-Term Solution: PDR repairs are a long-term solution as they address the underlying problem, rather than just covering it up with filler or paint.

  • High Success Rate: PDR has a high success rate in removing dents caused by hail and other minor collisions, ensuring a quality repair that restores the vehicle’s appearance.


Smooth Finishes Hail and Dent Team is not only a leader in hail damage repair, but we are also a Ceramic Pro Elite Dealer. This means we are experts in applying Ceramic Pro coatings to vehicles to protect them from environmental factors such as UV rays, scratches, and dirt.

If your vehicle has been damaged in a hailstorm and you have a Ceramic Pro coating, don’t worry. We are capable of handling all warranty Ceramic Pro re-applications following any hail repair on a Ceramic Coated vehicle. Our skilled technicians are trained to apply Ceramic Pro coatings to vehicles of all makes and models, ensuring your car is protected and looks its best.

At Smooth Finishes Hail and Dent Team, we understand the importance of protecting your investment. That’s why we offer Ceramic Pro coatings to keep your vehicle looking brand new. Whether you need a new coating applied or a warranty re-application, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to learn more about our Ceramic Pro services and how we can help protect your vehicle.

 

A few FAQs about PDR (Paintless Dent Repair):
 
  1. What is PDR? A: PDR is a technique used to repair minor dents and dings on a vehicle without the need for painting.

  2. What kind of damage can be repaired using PDR? A: PDR is ideal for repairing minor dents and dings caused by hail, minor collisions, and other similar incidents.

  3. How is PDR done? A: PDR is done using specialized tools that massage the dent from the backside of the panel to restore it to its original shape.

  4. Is PDR more expensive than traditional dent repair methods? A: No, PDR is often less expensive than traditional dent repair methods as it requires less labor and material.

  5. Can PDR be done on all types of vehicles? A: PDR can be done on most vehicles, including cars, trucks, and SUVs, as long as the damage is minor and the paint is not cracked or chipped.

  6. How long does PDR take? A: The time required for PDR depends on the extent of the damage, but repairs can often be completed in a matter of hours.

  7. Does PDR affect the value of my vehicle? A: No, PDR preserves the original paint and finish of the vehicle, which can actually help maintain its value.

  8. Does PDR come with a warranty? A: Yes, most PDR technicians offer a warranty on their work, typically for a period of one to five years.

  9. Is PDR environmentally friendly? A: Yes, PDR is an environmentally friendly option as it does not require the use of harsh chemicals or paints.

  10. Can PDR be done on aluminum panels? A: Yes, PDR can be done on aluminum panels, but it requires specialized techniques and tools due to the different properties of aluminum compared to steel.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Get in touch with SMooth finishes Hail and dent team today

Our team of experienced and certified technicians can quickly and efficiently repair hail damage to your car. We use the latest technologies and equipment to restore your car’s appearance and protect its value. Schedule a free consultation today.

REMEMBER, we offer all of the following professional automotive services in the Hanover, PA area!

Window tinting, auto detailing, ceramic coating, hail damage repair, PPF, marine detailing, Katzkin leather, paintless dent repair, minor dent repair, and more.

We’re committed to providing top-quality services to keep your vehicle looking its best and protect it from damage. Whether you need a full car detailing service, a ceramic coating to protect your car’s paint, or window tinting to enhance your car’s appearance and reduce heat, we’ve got you covered. Explore our website to learn more about our services and how we can help you maintain your vehicle.

Step by Step process for filing and repairing your hail damage.

Use this list to ensure your hail repair process moves smoothly.

Hail storms can be beautiful to watch, but can leave your vehicle with unsightly dents and damages. Understanding the impact of hail damage on your vehicle is crucial in getting it repaired efficiently. This guide is designed to provide you with a step-by-step process for filing a hail damage claim and getting your vehicle repaired.

Understanding Hail Damage and Its Impact on Your Vehicle

Hail is a precipitation that comes from the sky in the form of small, hard chunks of ice that can cause significant damage to your vehicle. When hailstones fall from the sky, they can hit your car at a high velocity, causing dents, scratches, and cracks. The severity of the hail damage will depend on the size of hail, speed, direction of the wind, and the type of vehicle you own.

It’s important to understand the impact of hail damage on your vehicle, as it can affect your safety, the value of your car, and your ability to drive comfortably. Even small dents and scratches can lead to rust and corrosion, which can spread and cause further damage over time.

Types of Hail Damage

The different types of hail damage your vehicle may incur include:

Dents on the body of the car: Hailstones can cause dents on the roof, hood, trunk, and doors of your car. These dents can vary in size and depth, and may require professional repair.

Broken or cracked windows: Hailstones can also crack or break your car’s windows, which can be dangerous and require immediate repair.

Damaged mirrors, trim or windshield wipers: Hailstones can damage your car’s mirrors, trim and windshield wipers, affecting your visibility while driving.

Scrapes or scratches on the paint surface: Often times these hail storms produce high winds, which can throw debris into your vehicle and scratch or cause other damge.

Damage to the lights or blinkers: Hailstones can damage your car’s lights and blinkers, affecting your ability to signal while driving.

Assessing the Severity of Hail Damage

The severity of the hail damage will depend on its extent and location. If the dent is small and negligible, or if the hailstorm was light/moderate with small hailstones (less than 1-inch diameter), the damage may not be severe enough to warrant insurance claim filing. In such cases, you can easily seek out a professional dent repair technician to handle the minor damage.

However, if the damage requires a complete automotive hail repair, it’s important to document the extent of the damage correctly. Taking photos or videos of the entire car, along with any dents and scratches, helps to give a clear picture of the damage. This information can be helpful when filing an insurance claim or seeking professional repair services.

It’s also important to note that hail damage can affect the value of your car. If you plan on selling your car in the future, potential buyers (especially car dealers) may be hesitant to purchase a car with hail damage, as it can indicate other underlying issues. Therefore, it’s important to address hail damage as soon as possible to prevent further damage and maintain the value of your vehicle.

Preparing to File a Hail Damage Claim

Hailstorms can be a nightmare for car owners, causing extensive damage to the body and windows of vehicles. In order to get your car back to its pre-storm condition, you’ll need to file a hail damage claim with your insurance provider. Here are some important steps to follow when preparing to file a claim:

Documenting the Damage

The first step in filing a hail damage claim is to gather all necessary details of the damage. This includes taking photographs and videos of the damage from multiple angles, as well as documenting the severity of the hailstorm. You can also gather estimates from multiple repair shops for future reference, and start gathering past invoices for similar damage repairs in order to help the insurance adjuster understand your vehicle’s current state along with its repair history.

It’s important to be thorough when documenting the damage, as this will help ensure that you receive the full amount of compensation you’re entitled to. Don’t forget to also take note of any other damage that may have occurred as a result of the hailstorm, such as damage to your home or other property.

Reviewing Your Insurance Policy

Before filing a claim, it’s important to review your insurance policy to understand what is covered and what is not. Your insurance documents will contain a list of covers and claims, how much you will pay out of pocket, and the extent and nature of damage covered in your policy. Understanding this information will help prepare you for the insurance claim process.

If you have any questions about your policy or are unsure about what is covered, don’t hesitate to contact your insurance provider for clarification.

Contacting Your Insurance Provider

After gathering all the information regarding the hail damage and having understood the insurance policy’s coverage, it’s time to report your claim to your insurance provider. Always be clear and concise when explaining the incident and relay any relevant information that you’ve already collected such as a damage estimate from your repair technicians.

When reporting your claim, be sure to provide your insurance provider with all of the necessary documentation, including photographs, videos, repair estimates time and date of damage. This will help ensure that your claim is processed quickly and accurately.

Once your claim has been filed, your insurance provider will assign an adjuster to your case. The adjuster will review your claim and determine the amount of compensation you are entitled to based on the coverage provided by your policy.

By following these steps and being proactive in documenting the damage and understanding your insurance policy, you can help ensure that your hail damage claim is processed smoothly and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

The Claims Process

Dealing with hail damage to your car can be a stressful and frustrating experience. However, understanding the claims process and what to expect can help make the process smoother and less daunting.

Scheduling an Inspection

Once you have reported the damage to your insurance provider, they will offer a few options: 1. Assign an adjuster to conduct an onsite inspection of the vehicle, where the adjuster will assess the extent of the hail damage and provide you with an estimate of the cost of repair or replacement, 2. send you to a local body shop or catastrophic hail inspection location, or  3. Inform you to go to a location of your choice for the estimate. It’s important to note that the adjuster will take into consideration other pertinent factors such as your car’s current condition and age.

During the inspection, the adjuster will thoroughly examine your car to identify all the damage caused by the hailstorm. They will also take photos and document the damage to support their estimate.

Receiving a Damage Estimate

After the inspection, the adjuster will provide you with a damage estimate. The estimate will cover everything required for repairs or replacements, including details like labor cost and material costs. It’s important to review the estimate carefully and make sure that it covers all the necessary repairs. 

If you have any doubts or questions about the estimate, don’t hesitate to ask the adjuster for clarification. You can also provide the adjuster with any additional information or documentation to support your claims, such as photos and repair shop estimates.

Negotiating with Your Insurance Company

If you feel that the estimate provided by the adjuster is insufficient, you have the right to negotiate with your insurance company. It’s important to communicate clearly and effectively with your insurance provider regarding your claims so that you can agree on the settlement.

If you decide to negotiate, you can obtain an estimate from a trusted repair shop and send the invoice to your insurance provider for payment. However, keep in mind that your insurance provider may have specific requirements for repair shops and may not cover the full cost of repairs if you choose a shop that is not approved by them.

Remember that the claims process can take time, and it’s important to be patient and persistent. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your insurance provider for guidance and support.

Choosing a Repair Shop

Choosing the right repair shop can make all the difference when it comes to getting your vehicle back on the road in excellent condition after hail damage. Not all repair shops are created equal, so it’s important to do your research and choose a reputable technician who offers quality service at an affordable price. Here are some tips to help you choose the best repair shop for your needs:

Researching Local Repair Shops

One of the first things to do when looking for a repair shop is to check out reviews and their portfolio of previous work. This will give you an idea of the quality of work they do and whether they specialize in hail damage repair. Many body shops have a local paintless dent repair technician available, but even most of those technicians DO NOT specialize in hail repair.  

It’s also important to consider the repair shop’s reputation in the community. Do they have a good track record of providing quality service and customer satisfaction? 

Comparing Estimates and Services

When you have a list of potential repair shops, it’s important to compare estimates and services. Look for a repair shop that provides an estimate that is accurate in pricing without compromising quality. Keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always be the best one. You want to make sure that the repair shop you choose uses quality parts and has experienced technicians who can do the job right the first time.

It’s also a good idea to ask about additional services that may be included in the repair shop’s contract. Do they offer any warranties or guarantees on their work? What about future maintenance needs? These are all important factors to consider when choosing a repair shop.

Verifying Insurance Coverage and Warranties

Before you sign any contract or agreement with a repair shop, make sure that they are insured. This will protect you in case something goes wrong during the repair process. Ask about warranties that cover the work done and any other related services they may offer within their contract for future maintenance needs.

By following these tips, you can find a reputable repair shop that specializes in hail damage repair and can get your vehicle back on the road in excellent condition.

Schedule your vehicle for repair and take delivery after inspecting thoroughly.

Once you decide where to schedule, coordinate with that company to schedule and get your vehicle hail repaired.  Once it is finished, before you accept delivery, inspect the vehicle thoroughly and ask the shop about their warranty. 

Conclusion

This step-by-step guide should help you navigate your way through the automotive hail damage claim and repair process successfully. It’s essential to document the incident, understand your insurance policy coverage, and work proactively with your insurance provider to get your vehicle back on the road efficiently. Remember to choose a reputable technician, and you’ll be back on the road with a hail damage-free and restored vehicle in no time.