Are Class 3 Shingles Impact Resistant
Impact resistant shingles have a thicker gauge base and are made with materials that are more flexible than standard shingles. They are rated for their durability during the UL 2218 impact test and given a Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, or Class 4 based on the impact degree they can withstand and crack.
A Class 3 rating is given to shingles that do not crack after being hit by a steel ball, measuring 1.75 in diameter and dropped from twenty feet. Class 4 is the highest after taking a hit from the same twenty foot height with a two-inch steel ball. To pass the UL 2218 test, the shingle cannot be cracked after that impact.
Recommended Reading: Post Shingles Fatigue And Joint Pain Symptoms
Are Impact Resistant Shingles Worth The Additional Cost
Quick answer: yes.
With IR shingles, most insurance companies give a discount on your premium because the roof is more resistant to hail damage. That discount is often between 15% and 30%. Personally, I use State Farm and they offered me 26% discount on my insurance premium if I purchased IR shingles. Check with your insurance company to see what your discount might be.
The real savings on with IR shingles, however, is not having to worry about small hail damaging the roof and you coming up with the deductible.
Additionally, depending upon the discount your insurance company offers, it might only take 3-4 years to pay off the upgrade to IR shingles.
Are Class 4 Impact Resistant Shingles Worth The Investment
Shingles are the first and important layer of a homes defense and protect you against extreme and inclement weather that can be pose danger to the people you love the things you hold dear. New roofing provides you with the opportunity to slash cooling costs while improving the curb appeal of your home, which is excellent. The latest innovation in roofing products is probably the Class 4 roofing shingles.
Don’t Miss: How To Dispose Of Asbestos Shingles
How Do Manufacturers Measure Impact
The highest rating is Class 4, offered by most major roofing manufacturers. To evaluate according to Class 4 criteria, a 2-inch steel ball is dropped from a height of 20 feet directly onto the shingle being tested. If the mat of the shingle does not crack on impact, the shingle receives Class 4 impact rating.
To achieve Class 3 rating, the shingle must withstand a 1 ¾-inch steel ball dropped from 20 feet.
Naturally, these tests are primarily intended to replicate hail stones. While the largest recorded hailstone in U.S. history measured 8 inches in diameter and weighed 1.94 pounds , most hailstones are under two inches in diameter, so insurance companies save when you install impact rated shingles.
Example Home On Willow Street
- $15,000 roofing project.
- For this particular house, the cost to upgrade to Class 4 is right around 10%, or $1,500.
- The homeowner has a typical wind/hail deductible of $2,000.
Over the life of the roof in our Willow Street example, if the homeowner is saved from having to file even one claim, then the upgrade has paid for itself. Additionally, in the event where there are no claims, an added 10-20 years of longevity to the roof could be worth thousands per year in benefit by deferring the cost of a roof replacement. Even if you arent in a forever home, the added value when selling the home and peace of mind about roof damage when living in the home may still be compelling reasons to look at upgrading to a Class 4 roof.
Also Check: What Do Shingles Look Like On A Human Body
What Are Impact Resistant Shingles And Are They For Me
Jul 27, 2016 | Roofing
If your roof sustained any damage from the storms in Lincoln this past spring, youve probably heard the phrase impact resistant shingles more times in the last few months than you have in the last several years. Thats because a roof is only as good as the products used in its construction.
Every year, homeowners lose their roofs to hail and wind because their roofs are made out of materials that just arent meant to withstand that kind of beating.
Cracking And Water Damage Prevention
Each Class 4 shingle has proven that it can withstand the extreme force of a steel ball of two inches dropped from20 feet without cracking. With a standard shingle, ruptures and cracks will appear from that type of impact. However, with Class 4 impact resistant shingles, there are no tears or splits and hence, no water damage.
Read Also: How Long Does Pain Last After Shingles
Class 4 Shingles: The Making Of A Durable And Impact Resistant Roof
Your roof is supposed to protect your home from the elements, so it must be built to withstand even the most severe storms. High winds, rain, blowing debris, and hail storms can significantly affect the structural integrity of your roof and roofing shingles if the damage they cause isnt dealt with quickly.
To keep their homes protected from hail and other storms, many homeowners choose to work with a local roofing company to install durable roofing materials like:
- Asphalt shingles
Although there are many great roofing materials to select from, asphalt shingles have remained number one across the country for decades and for tons of great reasons. Many roofing experts believe that the most durable roofing systems are made using impact-resistant, class 4 shingles.
So, are these high-performance shingles actually worth installing on your home? Lets dive into the world of impact-resistant shingle systems to find out if they are the right fit for your new roof!
Choosing Between Impact Windows And Standard Windows
How do you decide whether to upgrade to impact windows?
Typically, all it takes is a homeowner living through one major hurricane to decide that impact windows are worth the cost. Its no fun lying awake all night worrying about whether that howling wind will shatter the glass and send water and dirt flying into your home.
People who prepare for storms also appreciate the advantages of impact windows. When you board up your windows, you usually leave marks on your siding or stucco that damages the exterior of your house.
In addition, its harder to keep these boards up and guarantee security when using temporary storm measures.
However, if you dont live in a place with a lot of intense storms, then impact windows may be a luxury rather than a necessity.
Nevertheless, impact windows are still very beneficial in terms of the security and the noise reduction they provide though, you may not feel like youre getting your moneys worth unless a strong storm rolls through.
For example, people who live in California or Utah may not get as much benefit out of impact windows as their friends on the east coast. In that case, its sometimes an issue of whether people have the budget or inclination to buy more robust windows.
Of course, impact windows may also come in handy if local crime rates are a concern. A burglar or anyone else trying to get into your house will have a more challenging time getting through impact windows than a standard glass panel.
Also Check: What Does Early Signs Of Shingles Look Like
Why Are Impact Resistant Shingles A Good Investment
Class 4 impact-resistant composite tiles’ integrity and lightweight nature make them a good investment because they save on installation and long-term maintenance and repair costs. Notably, Class 4 impact-resistant tiles offer a lengthy lifespan, add resale value to a home, and lower home insurance rates.
Where To Get The Best Roofing Materials In Austin Texas
If youre looking to prevent premature roof replacement, you should get class 4 impact-resistant shingles, as they can withstand high winds and hail damage. These impact-resistant roofing products will take hail impact and help you forget about damaged roofs.
Stop asking yourself, are impact-resistant shingles worth it? and check it out yourself. All you have to do is call Water Damage and Roofing of Austin, and we will be there to install your class 4 impact-resistant shingles.
Recent Posts
Also Check: Owens Corning 50 Year Shingles
The Lifespan Of Impact
Severe weather events produce hail and cause long-term damage to a roof. Installing Class 4 shingles in hail-prone areas can reduce the risk of impact damage to a home. In fact, insurers will only approve a claim filed after a storm. If hail falls in your area, it is best to determine if your roof has been damaged as soon as possible. Some insurance companies will give homeowners a discount if they have Class 4 shingle roofs.
Impact-resistant asphalt shingles can last for close to 30 to 50 years. However, the amount of time asphalt shingles last in your home will depend on the weather in your area. According to UL, the 2218 test does not evaluate the effect of weathering, temperature, aging or similar effects on the impact resistance of prepared roof covering materials. These and other factors, including time, roof slope, roof system configuration and application influence the performance of roofing materials in the field.
What Are The Different Classes Of Roofing Shingles
The different classes of shingles are determined by the impact they can withstand based on the size of the steel ball used and the height from which the ball is dropped. The ball is dropped twice in the same spot, and if no damage is seen, the shingle meets that class. So, technically, classes 1 through 4 all withstand impact to a certain level, but 4 is the highest and most impact-resistant of them all.
- Class 1: A 1.25-inch steel ball is dropped twice from 12 feet high.
- Class 2: A 1.5-inch steel ball is dropped twice from 15 feet high.
- Class 3: A 1.75-inch steel ball is dropped twice from 17 feet high.
- Class 4: A 2-inch steel ball is dropped twice from 20 feet high.
Its important to remember that 2-inch-sized hail is bigger than the golf ball-sized hail you hear referenced, which is relatively rare. Since this impact resistance test uses a 2-inch steel ball, you could probably get by with a class 3-rated shingle if your home is located in an area that is not frequently hit with severe storms that bring such big hail.
Recommended Reading: How Often Can You Get The Shingles Shot
Impact Resistant Shingles: Are They Worth The Cost
March 29, 2020 December 19, 2022Refined Exteriors
Can you think of a single person who enjoys repairing or replacing their homes roof? No one likes spending the time or money it takes to get an updated roof due to damage and wear.
Over time, your roof shingles experience damage and deterioration, and one of the largest factors for this destruction is the weather. Hail and wind are major weather factors that can cause extreme damage and leave your home defenseless.
Denver homes experience their fair share of winter storms involving, snow, ice, hail, and extreme winds. And with these storms, repairing your roof becomes inevitable. So, what if there was a roofing material that could help prevent damage from the storms and lessen your need for roof repair and replacement?
Many homeowners are replacing their old worn-out shingles for new, impact-resistant shingles to help combat mother natures sting. But are IR shingles really worth the investment?
Our team at Refined Exteriors has compiled answers to some common questions about IR shingles to help you make the best decision for your home.
Lower Frequency Of Roof Damage/repair
What the UL2218 test shows is that class 4 impact-resistant shingles wont bend, crack, or tear when hit with large, high-speed hail. This is an incredible innovation and can save tons of time and money for both homeowners and contractors.
In areas with frequent hail storms or high winds and tornadoes, contractors can get overwhelmed with the number of damaged roofs. That can mean you might not be seen for weeks or more, leaving you without a working roof. However, when homeowners have class 4 impact-resistant shingles installed, they can have less frequent and severe damage incidents that require a consultation with a roofing contractor for roof repairs.
Also Check: What Age Do You Get The Shingles Vaccine
Class 4 Impact Resistant Shingles Insurance Discount
Helping to offset the expense of a roof replacement with premium Class 4 shingles, many insurance companies like Allstate and USAA offer a Class 4 impact resistant shingles insurance discount.
Homeowners can receive a 28% Class 4 shingles insurance discount on their homeowners insurance policy. Thatâs $863 annual average savings, which you will earn each year for 50 years!
Metro City Roofing offers our customers a FREE UPGRADE to Class 4 shingles. We have a 99% SUCCESS RATE to get your insurance claim approved. Contact us today.
Metro City Roofing is the only call you need to make for Colorado homeowners in need of a high-quality roofing contractor.
Class 4 Asphalt Shingles
Class 4 Asphalt Shingles or Impact Resistant shingles are capable of taking a beating and keep on protecting your home. Usually designed with a thicker mat and asphalt/ rubber coating.
Pros:
i. Durable
Class 4 Asphalt shingles can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance. They can handle the abuse of most storms.
ii. Insurance SavingsThese types of shingles are able to not only save you from having to replace your roof every hail storm but also carry over to how much you pay on your insurance premiums. Usually, you can get a discount from your carrier for installing these types of shingles on your home.
iii. Colors
Impact Resistant shingles are able to come in most of the same colors as regular 30-year shingles.
Cons:
Compared to 30-year shingles are a bit pricier depending on the brand and availability.
Recommended Reading: Can Shingles Be On Your Legs
Are Impact Resistant Shingles Worth It
As the American households average size starts to increase for the first time in over 160 years , theres a greater motivation than ever to protect our homes from the elements. But what about your business, the source of your income, and that of your employees? Theres undoubtedly motivation to protect your commercial building too.
Impact-resistant shingles. They famously provide a strong defense against wind and hail. But are impact-resistant shingles worth it when it comes to your business? Thats where our discussion will focus on today.
Well examine:
- Practical applications for impact-resistant shingles in a commercial setting
- Financial incentives vs. requirements for adopting IR
- General composition and design of these enhanced materials
- Key players in the IR shingles market
Lets dive right in:
Impact Resistant Shingles Withstand the Trauma of Hail Strikes, Without Breaking. Thats a very appealing feature for homeowners in hail-prone climates like Texas and Florida.
Who Tests The Shingles
Underwriters Laboratory tests all sorts of things, including roofing shingles. They basically test products to make sure they perform as expected or advertise. They develop standards, design equipment, uncover potential hazards. Learn more at WikiPedia. Their impact test is called Impact Resistance of Prepared Roof Covering Materials . Consumer Reports also tests roofing shingles, among other products.
Don’t Miss: What Does Shingles Look Like Images
Owens Corning Duration Shingles
Owens Corning TruDefinition Duration shingles are amongst the best in the market when it comes to Class 4.
Three of Owens Corning TruDefinition Duration Shingle lines are all Class 4 and ideal for hailstorm torn areas. TruDefinition Duration Flex shingles offer the best hailstorm protection a roof can give. They feature great wind resistance, outstanding grip, and triple-layer protection. Owens Corning uses the groundbreaking SureNail Technology, which gives the shingles extra strength and durability.
TruDefinition Duration Storm shingles feature two patented systems viz, WeatherGuard technology and the SureNail Technology, strengthening the shingles against failure due to impact. They have fabric strips that helps them provide wind protection up to 130mph. TruDefinition WeatherGuard HP Shingles are stylish and durable. They have high endurance from the IR webbing located at the shingles base and the patented complex design. Wind protection is up to 130mph and a limited warranty for algae protection good for ten years. The shingles do not fuse when temperatures are high.
Did You Know? You can identify algae discoloration since it is usually uniform or in streaks, unlike droppings from trees or moss, which normally have localized discoloration.
Wont Effect Insurance Premiums
Some worry about having class-rated roofing shingles on their home due to an increase in their insurance premiums. Luckily, that wont be the case with hail-resistant shingles because theyre still classified by a residential underwriters code . So, your home will stay insured at a lower rate than if you didnt have them installedthats a win-win! To be certain, though, always reach out to your insurance company before installing your new hail-resistant shingles.
Don’t Miss: How To Know You Have Shingles
Key Ir Shingle Manufacturers
There are quite a few roofing material manufacturers out there in the world. Some are worth your companys investment, while others are better left alone. If youre going to make a deeper investment into more resilient commercial roofing, it pays to buy from a reputable brand. While there are plenty of names to choose from, below are four of the most prestigious IR shingle roofing brands.
Pros And Cons Of Impact
Impact-resistant asphalt roofing shingles are specially-engineered products designed to withstand the impact of hail, which can damage a shingle and lead to leaks. While all shingles offer some level of impact resistance, only the most durable are marketed and sold as impact-resistant shingles. When selecting shingles for your home, its important to remember that no product is hail-proof. Severe hail storms can damage roofing of all types and materials, but in many cases, an impact-resistant roof can save you from – or substantially reduce – damage to your home and its contents.
When an asphalt shingle is hit by hail, it is subjected to numerous stresses. Hail can cause tiny tears and/or cracks in the body of the shingle. This damage, which can go unnoticed to an untrained eye, gives moisture a pathway through the shingle itself. This is why it is important to have your roof inspected by a professional after a hail storm, even if you do not see damage. Additionally, the impact of hail can dislodge the protective granules on the surface of a shingle, which can both damage a home’s aesthetic and leave the asphalt underneath vulnerable to the degradation of daily UV exposure that can lead to roof leaks. Impact-resistant roofing is constructed to withstand damage and minimize granule loss as best as possible, protecting your roof and keeping your family safe and dry.
Read Also: Name Of The Shingles Vaccine