Your roof is one of, if not the most important components of your home. A quality, properly installed roofing system protects the integrity of your homes structures and the people, pets and personal belongings within. A roof that is old, damaged, improperly installed or installed with inferior materials can leave you exposed to the elements and lead to costly repairs.
What Is an Impact Resistant Roof?
UL 2218 provides the standard for rating the impact-resistance of roofing materials. Roofing materials achieve a rating of Class 1-4 based on their ability to withstand the impact of various sizes of steel balls (simulating hail stones) without damaging the shingles. Class 4 shingles have the greatest impact resistance.
Why Consider a Class 4 Roof?
Hail and wind damage account for the majority of insurance claims. Impact-resistant shingles can help guard against damage to your roof in more extreme weather environments like Texas – that ranks in the top 4 of all US states in hail and wind events as well as damage claims. In addition:
- Impact-resistant shingles stand up more extreme weather events, so repairs, replacements and routine maintenance costs are reduced.
- They are attractive to homebuyers in a resale situation because they often have a longer warranty (up to a limited lifetime) which can usually be transferred to the new homeowner.
- Most insurance companies provide a discount for Class 4 shingles and related roofing components due to their superior impact resistance and lifespan.
- Class 4 roofing systems may help keep insurance costs lower for everyone in an area where frequent claims occur.
Are Class 4 Roofs More Expensive?
The superior strength and integrity of impact resistant shingles makes them more expensive – around 10% – 25% more than lesser rated materials. However, in the long term, the savings and peace of mind they can provide are numerous.
If you are considering installing an impact resistant roofing system, Roofing Solutions can help. We are local GAF Certified Professionals and Tamko Edge Preferred Contractors. We can guide you in choosing the best products for your home and ensure they are expertly installed.
Your satisfaction will be our guideposts.