Hailstorms are among the most difficult severe weather events to predict. Unless you already have a cover in place, there is not much you can do once hailstones start falling. There are ways to prevent hail damage altogether ahead of time, though.
The best hail protection structures for vehicles can withstand tremendous damage, safeguarding your driveway even through the worst of hail. This way, you can potentially lower your auto insurance rate and maintain your car’s market value.
1. Carport
Earlier this year, severe hailstorms produced baseball-sized hailstones. The spheres of ice were up to 4 inches in diameter, according to the National Public Radio. Hail this size can knock off side mirrors, puncture exterior panels and break windshields. During these storms, you need a sturdy structure like a carport.
Key Features
A carport is a covered building purpose-built for protecting vehicles. Its hail-resistant roof can withstand high-velocity impacts, increasing its longevity. Metal and wood models last between 10 to 30 years on average but can endure even longer if they are well-maintained.
2. Cantilever
Cantilevers are rigid structural elements supported on one end by a metal post and free on the other. The roof extends horizontally to cover a space large enough for a truck. You park underneath to shield your truck from hailstones, winds and heavy rainfall.
Key Features
A cantilever is one of the best hail protection structures for vehicles because it is open on one side, giving you room to maneuver. All this extra space comes in handy when hailstorms hit suddenly and you have to hurry to shield your car.
3. Portable Garage
A portable garage is a fabric or canopy cover attached to metal framing. It can typically only house a single truck at a time, but some of the best hail protection structure providers can do custom jobs to make yours fit more.
Key Features
Admittedly, a portable garage is not as tough as a building made of metal. However, what it lacks in durability, it makes up for in flexibility. Although setup and teardown take time, it is temporary, making it one of the best hail protection structures for vehicles that travel often.
4. Hail Net
This net is made of durable canopy netting attached to posts. The mesh allows some sunlight and rain through but keeps hailstones from causing damage. Admittedly, it is less durable than a metal or wood configuration. However, it is generally easier to repair.
Key Features
Even if a few hailstones get through, mesh netting still slows them down significantly. Since they typically fall at speeds between 25 to 40 miles per hour, halting their momentum is essential for safeguarding your truck against damage.
5. Retractable Awning
Severe storms caused $60 billion in losses in 2023 — a 93.5% increase year-over-year. While you could get insurance, filing a claim could increase your rate. More importantly, the subsequent report would lower your vehicle’s market value. If you want to protect your car but do not like the idea of having a huge building in your driveway, consider a retractable awning.
Key Features
A retractable awning is one of the best solutions because it conveniently extends and retracts at the press of a button. While an awning is hail-resistant — not hail-proof — the best hail protection structures for vehicles can withstand heavy impacts.
6. Hail Canopy
This canopy is excellent hail protection. It is typically a hip roof supported by four or more posts. It can be as simple as a fabric roof over thin poles or as complex as a steel-framed, car-lot sized cover.
Key Features
A hail canopy can easily cover an entire parking lot, making it ideal for auto dealerships or commercial properties. In places like Chicago, Illinois, where the expected annual loss of hail is over $1.5 million, having a permanent, wide-reaching structure like this is ideal.
4 Companies Providing the Best Hail Protection Structures
These four companies provide the best hail protection structures for vehicles. They also lead the industry in expertise, product quality and skill.
1. Vehicle Protection Structures
Out of all the hail protection structure providers, Vehicle Protection Structures is the best. With over three decades of experience, this full-service firm has leading expertise. Whether you get a cantilever or a mass coverage fixture, it covers everything from design to installation.
2. Maanta
Maanta provides shade sails. These canopies aren’t purpose-built for hail protection but can withstand hailstorms and high winds because they’re tear-proof and perforated. Many of its products are cantilevered and attach directly to your home’s exterior wall.
Although you have to set up this structure yourself, Maanta provides in-depth guides. Luckily, the process is relatively straightforward. Since you only install the sail and small anchor plates, installation moves quickly and will barely affect your property.
3. American Steel Carports Inc.
As its name suggests, American Steel Carports offers carports. Its products have a 20-year warranty, which is great for your peace of mind. It has models for recreational vehicles, heavy machinery and custom builds, so you have dozens of options to choose from.
4. WeatherSolve
WeatherSolve provide hail nets. The mesh is designed to withstand hailstones up to 4 inches in diameter. These retractable configurations are great if you only want your cover up during hail season but don’t want a temporary structure.
The Best Options for Hail Protection Structures
Roofs take the most damage in hailstorms, so they must be impact-resistant and durable. Whether you go with a temporary or a permanent structure, sourcing one from the best providers ensures you don’t have to worry about dings, dents and scratches.
