Guides & questions

Does PPF protect against hail?

PPF will not make your car hail-proof. It helps with small stone chips and scuffs, but hail can still dent panels and damage paint.

What PPF is designed to do

XPEL ULTIMATE PLUS is a polyurethane film that helps protect paint from small stone chips and scuffs. Light surface scratches in its topcoat can heal with warmth. Hail is different: it can dent the metal underneath, even when the film stays in place.

Exploded PPF illustration, top to bottom: road debris, self-healing topcoat, polyurethane film, adhesive, clear coat, color coat, primer and body panel. — PPF sits over the paint and clear coat. Some films have a topcoat that recovers from light surface marks when warmed; deep cuts and punctures do not heal. The layers are separated and enlarged here so you can see how they fit together. Open full-size image

Hail is a different impact

Hail can dent metal, crack glass and damage film or paint. The size of the hail and the force of the impact affect the damage. PPF is not a substitute for covered parking, and having film does not determine whether an insurance claim is covered.

What to do after a storm

Photograph the vehicle before attempting repairs, look for dents and film damage, and contact your insurer and a qualified repair or installation professional as appropriate. Do not pick at a lifted edge or polish aggressively over damaged film. A shop can inspect whether the film can remain, needs repair or should be replaced after the underlying panel is evaluated.

Hand holding a gray Porsche panel with film folded around the empty headlamp opening — Fitting PPF around a Porsche headlamp opening. If a panel needs repair after hail, its replacement film must be fitted around these edges again. Open full-size image

Should I buy PPF for hail protection?

No. Choose PPF if you want help protecting your paint from small road chips and everyday scuffs. For hail, prioritize covered parking when possible. If your car already has storm damage, have the panels inspected before arranging replacement film.

Tell us about your car.

Share the model, what you want to protect and any existing film or coating. We’ll talk through the options and quote the work. Get a quote.

Get a quote

Auto Vos · Colorado Springs

Your XPEL-certified shop.

We use XPEL films and coatings to protect your car’s glass and paint. We’ll help you choose the product and coverage for your car.

XPEL window film being prepared for installation

Ceramic window tint

PRIME XR PLUS

Film that helps reduce solar heat and glare.

Explore at XPEL ↗

Paint protection film

XPEL PPF

A clear film barrier over your car’s paint.

Explore at XPEL ↗

Ceramic coating

FUSION PLUS

A coating that makes compatible surfaces easier to clean.

Explore at XPEL ↗

Product photographs: XPEL. Visit XPEL for product specifications. We’ll confirm the exact product in your quote.