Frequently Asked Questions
How is hail damage repaired?
There are two very different methods used to repair hail damage. The more traditional method requires a body shop. Body shops sand and fill each dent created by hail. Repainting the damaged panel is also required. Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) has become the most common method used today. This process involves a specialized PDR technician slowly massaging the dent from the backside of the panel until it returns to its original undented condition.
What is PDR?
PDR or Paintless Dent Repair is a method of removing dents and dings without removing any paint from the vehicle. This is performed by a highly trained technician who very patiently massages the dent(s) out from the back of the panel using specialized tools.
What are the benefits of PDR?
The most important benefit is quality. This method is the closest you can get to the dent never happening in the first place. No grinding, bondo, fillers, or primers are needed because your original factory paint is not disturbed. There are no problems with filler or paint shrinkage months after the repair as is typical with most body shop repairs.
Time savings is yet another advantage. At Platinum Hail & Dent Co. we will have your vehicle approved, repaired and back to you within 7-10 days. At a body shop, a direct repair facility or the dealership the repair will take 2-3 weeks.
Environmental concerns are another benefit of PDR. Since this process keeps the original factory paint on your vehicle, there is no need for the paint, chemicals, or other toxins that are used extensively in body shops when repairing dents. PDR is 100% environmentally friendly.
How long does it take to fix a vehicle damaged by hail?
The hail damage is typically repaired in one to three days depending on the severity of the damage. Conventional repairs normally take a lot longer; anywhere from one to three weeks.
Will PDR crack or damage my paint?
It is highly unlikely to crack paint, however, it can happen. That is why it is SO important to use a qualified PDR company that specializes in PDR only. The paint used on newer vehicles today is far more flexible than the single stage paint that has been used for many past years. The PDR process involves massaging the dents from behind the panel; this procedure will not disturb the factory finish paint. In fact, it will restore the vehicle to its original OEM condition.
Will my dents come back after fixing with PDR?
Most metals have memory; a PDR technician massages the panel back to its original condition. Once a dent has been repaired and returned to its original state of rest (memory), it will not return unless it is struck by something that can cause a new dent to appear (door dings, more hail damage etc).
Can PDR help me SELL MY CAR?
Ever hear the saying "Image is everything"? Most people judge a car by its appearance. If it looks good they assume it has been well taken care of. Used car dealers and wholesalers know this. They also know what they spend on PDR will make them many times over what they spend, and will help them sell the car quicker. If you're selling your car, PDR is one of the best ways to get top dollar, more interested buyers, and a quicker sale.
Why does my insurance company want me to use PDR?
PDR is preferred because the manufacturer's original paint is not disturbed when repaired with PDR. With the PDR repair, your original manufacturer's warranty remains intact. PDR is also a faster repair that allows you, the customer, to be back in your personal vehicle as quickly as possible.
Will you work with my insurance company? Do you deal with insurance claims?
Yes! We handle the entire claim process in order to make it entirely stress free. We file the claim for you, get the adjuster out to our shop for a field inspection and repair the vehicle. All we need from you is 2 quick minutes of paperwork at your home authorizing us to repair your vehicle.
Do I have to repair my vehicle at the direct repair facility that my insurance company suggested?
No! You, as an insurance consumer, have the right by law to choose where you want to repair your vehicle. Not to mention that direct repairs are known in the hail repair industry as less than quality shops which cut corners and use aftermarket (not factory) parts and paints to save money.
Will I get a better quality repair at my auto dealership?
PH&D Co. has PDR technicians with 20+ years of experience that specialize in hail damage removal ONLY. Dealerships specialize in sales and service. Our tm slogan is, "Highest Quality Hail Repair!", and we truly believe that we provide the highest quality hail repair in the industry, having a A+ rating with the BBB to support it.
My insurance company suggested that a body shop would be needed for my hail damage repair?
Some repairs must be completed at a body shop if the damage is too severe. However, our specialized technicians will assess your damage and determine which method would be best, PDR or conventional repair. Here is a brief list of why PDR has become the preferred method over conventional repairs:
- PDR repairs are completed much quicker
- Your vehicle's paint warranty remains in effect
- Your vehicle's corrosion warranty remains in effect
- Eliminates the inconvenience of needing a long term rental
- PDR repairs are endorsed by ALL vehicle manufacturers and ALL insurance companies
- PDR eliminates the need to color match today's more advanced and complex paint systems (Tri-color, Pearls, etc)
- All work is 100% guaranteed with a lifetime warranty for the entire time you own the repaired vehicle.
Will the insurance company raise my rate if I file a claim?
No, Insurance companies classify hail damage as a comprehensive claim and it is beyond your control. Acts of mother nature such as, hail, wind, tornadoes, and floods will not increase your rate.
Is my satisfaction guaranteed? Is there a PDR warranty?
Yes, PDR repairs completed by PH&D Co. come with a lifetime warranty that is in force for the entire time you own your repaired vehicle. It is our absolute goal to have you, our customer, 100% satisfied with your vehicle.