Class 4 Impact-Resistant Roof Shingles Explained
If you live in an area where fierce storms are prevalent, the type of roofing shingles you select is critical in safeguarding your roof from severe storm damage. Impact resistant roof shingles that resist damage are particularly important if your roof is exposed to hailstorms, airborne debris, and strong winds.
Impact-Resistant Roof Shingles
An impact-resistant roofing shingle-also known as an “IR” roofing shingle-is designed to minimize roof damage during a severe weather event. They are made of stronger and longer-lasting material, and could potentially lengthen the lifespan of your roof. You may also be eligible for an insurance discount if you install impact-resistant roofing shingles on your home. (Please contact your insurance provider for more information)
However, you need to be aware of the different roofing material class ratings, the technology, and the benefits of Class 4, impact-resistant roofing shingles to help you choose the best roof for your family.
Impact-Resistant Classes
A product’s impact resistance can be identified by a class system, ranging from Class 1, the least resistant, to Class 4, the most resistant. In order to obtain this special classification, roofing shingles must undergo a demanding and comprehensive testing process. All testing is done by the Underwriters Laboratory (UL), who co-developed the UL 2218 classification alongside the Institute of Business and Home Safety.
The way the test works is basically, dropping multiple steel balls in a variety of sizes onto shingles (and other roofing materials) at around 90 mph from heights ranging from 12 feet, up to 20 feet. The balls are dropped twice onto the same area, then the shingle is flipped and inspected for any damage that could lead to roof leaks.
To receive a UL Class 4 impact-resistance rating, shingles need to withstand multiple impacts by a 2″ diameter steel ball without cracking or showing any other type of damage to its structural integrity.
Furthermore, the shingle’s exterior surface, backing, and inner layers must not exhibit any cracks, tears, fractures, splitings, or other indications of material damage. Shingles that are under-performing are rated lower.
For perspective, a 4-inch concrete paver would be broken in half if the same test was repeated on it.
Benefits of Class 4 Impact-Resitant Roofing Shingles
- Roof repairs can be eliminated or reduced in frequency.
- You can relax a bit more knowing you have given your roof its best chance at holding up against the storms, thanks to the toughness of shingles. Less damage means fewer unexpected repair expenses.
- You can relax a bit more knowing you have given your roof its best chance at holding up against the storms, thanks to the toughness of shingles. Less damage means fewer unexpected repair expenses.
- Increase the lifespan of your roof.
- Shingles that remain undamaged and intact throughout all the seasons provide better roof protection. Your shingles are your roof’s first line of defense, the stronger the better.
- Shingles that remain undamaged and intact throughout all the seasons provide better roof protection. Your shingles are your roof’s first line of defense, the stronger the better.
- You can save money on homeowner’s insurance by installing them.
- Contact your insurance provider to find out if your roof is covered in Class 4-rated shingles, as many companies offer discounts for such installations.
- Contact your insurance provider to find out if your roof is covered in Class 4-rated shingles, as many companies offer discounts for such installations.
- Keep your insurance premiums and deductibles from rising at renewal time.
- Some insurance companies are passing the cost of protecting against hail onto consumers as a result of increasing prices. Having a Class 4 impact-resistant shingle installed on your home may help you keep your current rates or avoid future rate increases. Contact your insurance company for more information.
- Some insurance companies are passing the cost of protecting against hail onto consumers as a result of increasing prices. Having a Class 4 impact-resistant shingle installed on your home may help you keep your current rates or avoid future rate increases. Contact your insurance company for more information.
- Increased Resale Value
- A new roof was found to be the highest rated exterior project for increasing resale value in the National Association of Realtors’ survey. Furthermore, Class 4 impact-resistant shingles’ low-maintenance and longevity are qualities that buyers will appreciate.
- A new roof was found to be the highest rated exterior project for increasing resale value in the National Association of Realtors’ survey. Furthermore, Class 4 impact-resistant shingles’ low-maintenance and longevity are qualities that buyers will appreciate.
With over 36 years in business as one of the best commercial and residential roofing contractors, and 80 plus industry awards, we know Royalty Roofing is the best contractor for the job. If you’re interested in learning more contact us at (812) 523-8392 or send us a message.
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