Why use a hail-proof car cover?
Using a hail-proof car cover is a wise decision to protect your vehicle from weather damage, especially hailstorms. Here's why this protection is essential:
1. Protection against physical damage
Hailstorms can cause considerable damage to your vehicle's bodywork and windows. Hailstones, up to the size of golf balls, create dents, cracks and paint chips. According to one study, hailstorms account for 20% of weather-related claims in France every year. A hail-proof car cover provides a physical barrier against these impacts, reducing repair costs.
2. Save on repairs
Repairing hail damage can be expensive. A simple body repair for a hail-damaged vehicle can cost between 500 and 3,000 euros, depending on the extent of the damage and the car model. By investing in a hail-proof car cover, you can avoid these unexpected costs and protect your investment in the long term.
3. Preserve your vehicle's value
Visible body damage can reduce the resale value of your car. By protecting your vehicle with a hail-proof tarpaulin, you safeguard its appearance and market value. Potential buyers prefer well-maintained vehicles with no signs of external damage, making it easier to sell and get a better price.
Hailstorms can occur without warning, especially in certain weather-prone regions. Having a hail-proof car cover on hand offers peace of mind, knowing that your vehicle is protected at all times. This reduces the stress associated with weather forecasts and hail alerts.
Comparison of the best brands of hail protection car covers
To protect your vehicle from the elements, especially hail, it's essential to choose a quality anti-hail car cover. Here's a detailed comparison of the best brands of anti-hail car covers in 2024, based on recognized brands available on the market.
1. Cover Company
Cover Company is a well-known brand of vehicle tarpaulins, offering products specially designed to protect against hail.
Uses multiple layers of material for maximum protection.
Materials: PVC-coated polyester and high-density foam.
Effective protection against medium to large hailstones.
Durability and weather resistance.
Good value for money.
Price: Approx. 250 to 400 euros.
2. Seal Skin Covers
Seal Skin Covers offers a range of top-of-the-range protective tarpaulins, including models specifically designed for hail.
Multi-layer design with shock-absorbing materials.
Materials: tough Oxford fabric and EVA foam.
Excellent protection against hail impact.
Durable, UV-resistant materials.
Easy to install and remove.
Price: Approx. 300 to 500 euros.
3. Hail Protector
Hail Protector is an innovative brand offering unique inflatable hail protection, using a ventilation system to create an air barrier.
Inflatable system: Uses air to absorb hail impacts.
Materials: Oxford nylon and reinforced PVC.
Maximum protection against hailstones of all sizes.
Easy installation and removal.
Innovative technology for superior protection.
Price : Approx. 500 to 600 euros.
4. Leader Accessories
Leader Accessories offers a range of affordable and effective protective tarpaulins, including models for hail protection.
Combination of resistant fabrics and impact-absorbing foam.
Materials: Coated polyester and high-density foam.
Good protection against hail impacts.
Durable and weather-resistant.
Price : Approximately 150 to 300 euros.
How does a hail-proof car cover work?
A hail-proof car cover is specially designed to offer robust protection against the violent impact of hailstones.
Anti-hail tarpaulins are generally made from several layers of tough, shock-absorbing materials. The outer layer is often made of polyester or PVC, materials known for their weather resistance and durability. Underneath, a layer of high-density foam, usually EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate), absorbs shocks. This combination of materials creates a thick barrier capable of dissipating the energy of hail impacts.
The key to a hail-proof car cover's effectiveness lies in its ability to absorb and disperse impact energy. The high-density foam acts like a cushion, distributing the force of the hailstone over a wider surface and thus reducing the pressure exerted on a single point of the bodywork. This shock-absorbing technology is similar to that used in protective helmets or sports equipment, where energy dissipation is crucial to preventing injury.
To guarantee optimum protection, our hail-proof car tarpaulins feature robust fastening systems. Elastic straps and hooks secure the tarpaulin around the vehicle, preventing it from shifting even in strong winds. Some models, such as those by ProCover, include adjustable straps and safety buckles for even more secure fastening.
Modern hail covers are designed to be easy to install and remove. Most models can be deployed in a matter of minutes, offering quick protection when hailstorms are forecast. What's more, they're usually foldable and lightweight, allowing easy storage in the boot of the car when not in use.
Where can I buy a quality hail-proof car cover?
The most effective materials for a hail-proof car cover
The materials used in the manufacture of a hail-proof car cover are essential to ensure maximum protection. Here are the most effective materials and their characteristics:
1. PVC-coated polyester
PVC-coated polyester is a material commonly used for the outer layer of hail-proof tarpaulins. It is renowned for its resistance to weathering, abrasion and UV rays. PVC adds an extra layer of protection against water and debris, ensuring that the tarpaulin remains in good condition even after prolonged exposure to the elements.
Water-resistant, durable, UV-resistant, easy to clean.
Cover Company uses PVC-coated polyester for maximum protection against hail and weather.
2. EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) foam
EVA foam is a lightweight, flexible material known for its excellent shock-absorbing properties. It is commonly used in the middle layers of hail-proof tarpaulins to dissipate impact energy.
High density, excellent shock absorption, lightweight, flexible.
Hail Protector brand tarpaulins use EVA foam to provide effective protection against hail impacts.
3. Polyurethane
Polyurethane is another material used for the protective layers of hail-proof tarpaulins. It offers exceptional resistance to wear and tear, yet is flexible enough to adapt to the contours of the vehicle.
Highly wear-resistant, flexible, durable.
StormGuard tarpaulin uses polyurethane to guarantee long-lasting protection against hail.
4. Oxford nylon
Oxford nylon is used for the inner layers of hail covers. It is soft and non-abrasive, ensuring that vehicle paintwork is not scratched or damaged when the tarpaulin is installed or removed.
Soft, non-abrasive, tear-resistant.
AutoCover brand protection products use Oxford nylon for the inner layer, providing soft protection against bodywork.
How to install a hail-proof car cover correctly?
Correct installation of a hail-proof car cover is essential to guarantee optimum protection. Here's a step-by-step guide to make sure your tarpaulin is correctly installed.
1. Preparation
- Before installing the tarpaulin, make sure your car is clean and dry. Dirt and moisture can cause scratches and mildew.
2. Positioning the tarpaulin
- Unfold the tarpaulin on a clean surface. Identify the front and rear sides, often marked with labels or logos.
- Position the front of the tarpaulin on the vehicle's front bumper. Gently stretch the tarpaulin backwards, gradually covering the car.
3. Securing the tarpaulin
- Use the elastic straps and hooks to secure the tarpaulin under the vehicle. Make sure the straps are tight, but not so tight as to distort the cover.
- Adjust the cover around mirrors, antennas and other protrusions to avoid wrinkles and exposed areas.
4. Securing
- For tarpaulins equipped with ground anchors, insert the pegs into the loops provided and drive them firmly into the ground to prevent the tarpaulin from being moved by the wind.
- Walk around the vehicle to check that the tarpaulin is snug and that no part of the car is exposed.
5. Regular maintenance
- Cleaning the tarpaulin: Clean the tarpaulin regularly with lukewarm water and mild soap to remove dust and debris. This preserves its durability and efficiency.
- Storage: When not in use, fold the tarpaulin neatly and store in a storage bag away from moisture and direct sunlight.
FAQ about hail-proof car covers
What is a hail-proof car cover?
A hail-proof car cover is specially designed to protect vehicles against hail impacts. It's made from tough, shock-absorbing materials to absorb the impact of hailstones and prevent damage to bodywork and windows.
Why use a hail-proof car cover?
Using a hail-proof car cover protects your vehicle from damage caused by hailstorms, reduces repair costs, preserves the vehicle's resale value and offers peace of mind in the face of inclement weather.
How does a hail-proof car cover work?
An anti-hail car cover works by using several layers of tough materials, such as PVC-coated polyester and EVA foam, to absorb and disperse the energy of hailstone impacts, protecting the vehicle's bodywork and windows.
What are the most effective materials for a hail-proof car cover?
The most effective materials include PVC-coated polyester for weather resistance, EVA foam for shock absorption, and polyurethane for durability and flexibility. Oxford nylon is also used for the inner layers to prevent scratches on the paintwork.
How much does a hail-proof car cover cost?
The cost of a hail-proof car cover varies according to quality and features. Prices can range from 50 euros for basic models to over 800 euros for top-of-the-range tarpaulins like the Hail Protector or CarCoon Outdoor.
How long does a hail-proof car cover last?
The lifespan of a hail-proof car cover depends on the quality of the materials used and how well they are maintained. In general, a well-maintained, good-quality tarpaulin can last between 5 and 10 years.
Can a hail-proof car cover be used in all seasons?
Yes, a hail-proof car cover can be used in all seasons to protect your vehicle not only from hail, but also from snow, rain, sun and debris. Just make sure you choose a model suited to the climatic conditions in your area.
Does the hail-proof car cover also protect against UV rays?
Most quality anti-hail car covers are designed to protect against UV rays, in addition to hail impacts. Materials such as PVC-coated polyester offer effective UV protection, preventing fading and damage to your vehicle's paintwork.
