Asphalt shingles are the most commonly purchased roofing materials today due to their affordability, versatility, and ease of installation.
As versatile as they are, shingle roof companies do find certain circumstances where they can suffer damage due to local weather conditions.
In areas known to receive excessive winds and hail, shingle roof contractors recommend Class 4 impact-resistant shingles to their customers.
Though these premium shingles do cost more than standard options, they can save a homeowner thousands of dollars in the long run.
What Are Class 4 Impact-Resistant Shingles?
What are Class 4 impact-resistant shingles installed by shingle roofing contractors?
They are enhanced, premium asphalt shingles that are designed to withstand larger impacts from hail, wind, and windblown debris than standard-rated shingles.
Recommended for homes by shingle roof companies in regions that experience these conditions, the added resilience of these shingles makes it possible to get through a storm without damage, while other shingles might require complete replacement.
What Does The Class 4 Impact Rating Mean?
It means that a specific shingle product has been designed to withstand stronger impacts and has passed a standardized impact rating test.
Shingle roof contractors tell their clients that these thicker, more durable shingles are made using a different ratio of materials that make them harder and stiffer than those that offer average impact resistance.
They have also undergone the Underwriter’s Laboratories steel ball test which measures the effect of dropping a 2-inch steel ball onto the shingles from 20 feet and received minimal damage from that impact.
More Advantages of Class 4 Impact Ratings
In locations where hail or severe winds are possible, Class 4 impact-resistant shingles are recommended for more than just the obvious reasons.
Not only will Class 4 shingles withstand extreme weather better, but they reduce the need to hire shingle roof contractors to do roofing repairs.
They may also result in homeowners getting an insurance premium discount since Class 4 shingles are more protective than any other class of asphalt shingles, which reduces the chance that an insurance company will end up paying a damage claim or that they will increase premiums due to claims payment.
Adding It All Up
While it is true that premium Class 4 impact-resistant shingles come with a higher price tag than shingles with no or lower impact-resistance ratings, they do pay for themselves over time.
Between sustaining less damage that requires attention from a shingle roof contractor, homeowners insurance discounts, and fewer storm-related problems overall, Class 4 impact-resistant shingles are a great choice for homeowners looking to be proactive to prevent damage to their homes.
Discuss the options in premium Class 4 impact-resistant shingles with an experienced local shingle roofing contractor today!