What Are Impact Resistant Shingles?
When it comes to choosing roofing materials, homeowners now have more options than ever. One type of roofing material that’s gaining popularity due to its durability and protective qualities is impact-resistant shingles. But what exactly are impact-resistant shingles, and how do they differ from regular shingles? Let’s delve into the specifics.
Impact-resistant shingles, as the name suggests, are specially designed to withstand high impacts from hail, debris, and other severe weather conditions. These shingles are tested under rigorous conditions – for instance, by dropping steel balls on them from a certain height – to ensure their ability to hold up under harsh circumstances. Shingles that don’t crack from this impact receive a Class 4 rating, the highest rating possible for roofing materials.
How Do They Work?
The durability of impact-resistant shingles lies in their flexible, rubber-like material. Unlike regular shingles, which can crack and split under stress, impact-resistant shingles are able to absorb the shock and bounce back to their original shape. This ability to ‘flex’ instead of breaking makes them highly resistant to damage.
What are the Benefits of Impact Resistant Shingles?
- Durability: Impact-resistant shingles can withstand harsh weather conditions, making them a durable roofing choice, especially in hail-prone areas.
- Longevity: Their resilience extends their lifespan, potentially saving homeowners the cost and hassle of frequent roof repairs or replacements.
- Insurance Advantages: Many insurance companies offer discounts on homeowner’s insurance policies for homes with impact-resistant roofs due to their decreased likelihood of weather-related damage.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Impact-resistant shingles come in various colors and styles, allowing homeowners to enjoy enhanced durability without sacrificing the visual appeal of their home.
- Improved Home Value: Because of their durability, longevity, and visual appeal, impact-resistant shingles can increase the value of your home.
Impact-resistant shingles offer a plethora of advantages, making them a smart investment for homeowners looking to protect their homes from harsh weather conditions while also adding aesthetic appeal. However, it’s essential to note that these shingles need to be installed correctly to maximize their benefits. That’s why it’s recommended to hire professional roofers with experience in installing impact-resistant shingles.
What is a Class 4 Impact Resistant shingle?
A Class 4 impact rating is the highest classification given to roofing materials based on their ability to withstand impact, particularly from hail.
This rating is determined by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), an independent safety certification company. In the UL 2218 impact test, steel balls of varying sizes, simulating hailstones, are dropped onto the roofing material from a height of 20 feet.
A Class 4 rating is awarded to materials that exhibit no evidence of cracks or ruptures on the front or back after being hit twice in the same spot by a 2-inch steel ball. Roofing materials with this rating, such as Class 4 impact-resistant shingles, are highly resilient and can significantly protect a home against hail and other debris.
What are the Impact Resistant Ratings?
The level of impact resistance of shingles varies, and to help homeowners compare the durability of available roofing materials, Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL) established a universal standard in 1996 that’s now widely accepted across the roofing industry.
Shingles are awarded a class rating from one to four, with four being the highest, based on their performance in the steel ball drop test. This test emulates the damage that can be caused by hail impact. Shingles are generally considered impact-resistant if they achieve a Class 3 or 4 rating.
Here’s a breakdown of the classifications:
- Class 1: The shingle doesn’t crack after being hit twice in the same spot by a steel ball with a diameter of 1.25 inches.
- Class 2: The shingle remains intact after being struck twice in the same location by a steel ball with a diameter of 1.50 inches.
- Class 3: The shingle withstands two hits in the same area from a steel ball with a diameter of 1.75 inches without cracking.
- Class 4: The shingle doesn’t crack after being hit twice in the same spot by a steel ball measuring 2.0 inches in diameter, demonstrating the highest level of impact resistance.
What Atlas Shingles are Class 4 Impact Resistant?
Atlas Roofing Corporation offers a range of shingles that have received the prestigious Class 4 Impact Resistance rating. This includes their StormMaster® Shake, and their new Pinnacle Impact shingles.
These shingles are manufactured using a rubberized SBS polymer, which provides superior durability and flexibility, enabling them to withstand extreme weather conditions and impacts. Their enhanced impact resistance helps to protect your roof against damage from hail, falling branches, and other debris.
As a result, StormMaster® Shake and Pinnacle Impact shingles are excellent choices for homeowners seeking the highest level of protection for their roofs. Remember to consult with a professional roofing company like Restoration Roofing to ensure proper installation and maintenance of these high-performance shingles.
Finding a Memphis Roofing Company
At Restoration Roofing, we have the expertise to guide you in selecting and installing the best roofing materials for your home, including impact-resistant shingles. Contact us today for more information, and let’s start your roofing journey together!
As the best roofing company in Memphis, we pride ourselves on our commitment to providing top-notch service to all of our customers. We use only the highest quality materials and have a team of highly trained and experienced professionals who are dedicated to getting the job done right the first time.
Give us a call at 901-854-3402 or fill out our Contact Us form and we will reach out to you with our next available inspection. Make sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more tips on finding the best roofing contractor for you.
