A Homeowner’s Guide to Impact-Resistant Shingles: Don’t Miss This!

If you're a homeowner, you know how important it is to have a sturdy and reliable roof that can withstand the test of time and the forces of nature. One of the essential aspects of a durable roof is its ability to resist impacts. In this detailed guide, we will explore everything homeowners need to know about impact-resistant shingles, from the pros and cons to types and costs.

What Are Impact-Resistant Roof Shingles?

Impact-resistant shingles, as the name suggests, are one of the best roofing shingles specifically engineered to withstand the force of impacts from hail, debris, falling branches, and other objects that may land on your roof during severe weather conditions. The ability of these shingles to endure impact is gauged through standardized testing using the UL 2218 Impact Test, an industry-recognized evaluation method.

Understanding the UL 2218 Impact Test

The UL 2218 Impact Test involves dropping steel balls of varying sizes and weights from specific heights onto a shingle. The resulting damage is carefully assessed to determine the shingle's resilience. The rating scale ranges from Class 1 to 4, with Class 4 having the highest level of impact resistance.

Class 1: Shingles in this class can withstand a 1.25-inch steel ball dropped from a 12-foot height. Although offering the least resistance, they still provide a basic level of protection.

Class 2: Shingles in this class exhibit moderate resistance, enduring a 1.5-inch steel ball dropped from the same 14-foot height.

Class 3: With better resistance, Class 3 shingles can withstand a 1.75-inch steel ball dropped from a 17-foot height, making them more durable against impacts.

Class 4: Shingles with a Class 4 rating can endure a 2-inch steel ball dropped from a significant 20-foot height, providing robust protection against severe hail storms.

The rating helps homeowners choose shingles based on their local climate and potential weather risks. Let’s dig deeper to understand the unique benefits and concerns related to these shingles.

Pros: How Impact-Resistant Shingles Can Benefit Homeowners

Here are the impressive benefits you should know about:

Enhanced Durability

Impact-resistant shingles are engineered to be exceptionally durable. Their ability to withstand the force of hail, debris, and falling branches means they have a longer lifespan compared to traditional shingles. This enhanced durability can save homeowners money on frequent repairs and replacements.

Savings In The Long Run

While impact-resistant shingles may have a higher upfront cost compared to standard shingles, their long term cost effectiveness makes them a smart investment. The durability and reduced maintenance needs can translate into significant cost savings over the roof's life. Additionally, impact-resistant shingles often come with extended warranties, like a 50-year guarantee, giving homeowners added peace of mind.

Insurance Premium Reductions

Many insurance companies offer reduced premiums to homeowners with impact-resistant roofs. The added protection against weather related damage, especially in areas prone to severe weather, can lead to substantial savings on insurance premiums.

Environmental Benefits

Impact rated roof shingles have a longer life expectancy, meaning they result in less waste over time compared to standard shingles that may need to be replaced sooner. This longevity contributes to a more sustainable roofing option, reducing the environmental impact associated with frequent replacements.

Peace of Mind

Knowing that your roof is fortified against severe weather conditions provides peace of mind to homeowners. It alleviates concerns about potential damage during storms and ensures that your investment is well protected for years to come.

Cons: Common Concerns About Impact-Resistant Roofing Shingles

Now, let’s address the issues some homeowners might face:

Higher Initial Cost

One of the main concerns with impact-resistant shingles is their higher initial cost compared to traditional shingles. Homeowners may be hesitant to make the investment due to the upfront expenses, even though the long term benefits can outweigh this initial financial burden.

Limited Availability of Styles and Colors

Impact-resistant roofing shingles may have a narrower range of styles and colors compared to other shingle options. This limitation can be a concern for homeowners who are looking for a specific aesthetic to match their home's design.

Professional Installation Required

There will be no benefits if these premium shingles are not installed properly. For correct installation, it’s crucial to hire a manufacturer-certified installer, which will add to the cost of your roofing project. DIY installation is not an option for these shingles.

However, the numerous features that these shingles have make them a compelling choice for many homeowners. If you’re wondering about the expenses, let’s dive into the financial side of these shingles.

Assessing the Costs: Are Impact-Resistant Shingles Worth It?

The price for Class 4 shingles is typically around $1,000 per roofing square, or per 100 square feet. This cost covers both the materials and the professional installation by a roofing company. So, is it a good investment? Yes, Class 3 and Class 4 impact-resistant shingles are definitely worth it! While their installation cost is about 20% more than standard asphalt shingles, they offer substantial benefits that make them more cost-effective in the long run.

If you are planning to install these shingles, keep reading to learn about the different styles available.

Types of Impact-Resistant Roof Shingles

There are two primary types: luxury asphalt shingles and synthetic shingles, both known for their durability and stunning aesthetics.

1. Luxury Asphalt Shingles

Luxury asphalt shingles, often known as designer, high end, or premium shingles, are crafted using high quality asphalt and are reinforced with additional layers of materials to enhance their impact resistance. 

Here's what makes them a popular choice:

Heavy Reinforcement: These shingles are reinforced with added layers of asphalt, fiberglass, or organic materials, making them sturdier and better equipped to withstand heavy impacts.

Excellent Aesthetics: Luxury asphalt shingles come in a wide variety of designs, colors, and textures, allowing homeowners to choose options that complement the aesthetics of their homes.

Enhanced Durability: Due to their multiple layers and superior quality materials, luxury asphalt shingles have an extended lifespan, providing long term protection for your home.

2. Synthetic Shingles

Synthetic shingles, also known as composite shingles, are manufactured from a blend of advanced materials, often incorporating polymers, fiberglass, recycled plastics, or rubber. 

Here's why they are a sought after choice:

Lightweight and Durable: Synthetic shingles are lightweight yet highly durable, offering exceptional impact resistance without adding excess weight to the roof’s structure.

Wide Range of Styles: These shingles can mimic the appearance of natural materials like slate, wood, or even metal, providing homeowners with versatile options to suit their preferences.

Weather Resistant: They are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, including hail, wind, and heavy rain, ensuring your roof remains intact and secure.

Environmentally Friendly: Most composite shingles are manufactured with recycled materials, making them an eco-conscious choice for ecologically responsible homeowners.

Top 3 Impact-Resistant Roof Shingles

The following manufacturers use cutting-edge technology and superior craftsmanship to create these impact-resistant shingles, which are engineered to elevate the protection of roofs in any environment.

#1 GAF Timberline® AS II Shingles

GAF Timberline® AS II shingles are engineered to fortify your roof against harsh elements, especially in regions prone to hail, showcasing their UL 2218 Class 4 impact resistance. This feature not only defends against hail, but also bolsters protection from wind and blue-green algae. 

Here's what makes AS II shingles stand out:

👉 Class 4 Impact-Resistance: These shingles excel in the rigorous UL 2218 Class 4 Impact-Resistance Test, ensuring they meet high standards for durability against impacts.

👉 Insurance Discounts: Meeting the Class 4 criteria, Timberline AS II shingles may qualify homeowners for insurance discounts, emphasizing their reliability and strength.

👉 Wind Warranty: The advanced technology integrated into these impact-resistant shingles enables them to withstand strong winds, backed by a 15-Year WindProven™ Limited Wind Warranty. This warranty will provide you with confidence that your roof can endure severe weather, enhancing its lifespan.

👉 Algae Protection Warranty: Timberline AS II shingles also offer protection against unsightly algae stains, preserving the aesthetic appeal of your roof. The 25-Year StainGuard Plus™ Algae Protection Limited Warranty ensures your roof remains free from algae-related discoloration for an extended period.

For more information, reach out to our GAF Master Elite® roofers in Pennsylvania.

#2 DaVinci Shakes

DaVinci Roofscapes is a composite roofing manufacturer offering stunning slate-like and shake-like shingles. DaVinci’s composite wood shakes let you experience the allure of cedar shake roofing without the upkeep. DaVinci shakes hold strong against harsh weather conditions, making it a top choice for a lasting and visually stunning roof.

👉 Class 4 Impact Rating: These shingles offer superior durability against impacts, ensuring a long lasting roof.

👉 Class A Fire Rating: DaVinci shingles provide peace of mind with their excellent fire resistance.

👉 Wind Resistant: The shake-like shingles are certified to withstand wind speeds up to 110 mph, showcasing their sturdiness and ability to resist all weather conditions. 

👉 Authentic Aesthetics: With the appearance of natural cedar shake, these shingles will enhance your home's visual appeal.

👉 Lifetime Limited Material Warranty: Backed by DaVinci's commitment to quality, these composite shingles come with the assurance of longevity and reliability. 

#3 F-Wave Revia® Designer Slate Synthetic Shingles

F-Wave Revia® Designer Slate Synthetic Shingles are a perfect blend of premium aesthetics and unmatched durability. Revel in the ultra-dimensional look of genuine slate without the maintenance hassle, presenting a solid return on investment and prolonged curb appeal.

👉 Class 4 Impact Resistance: Revia shingles are highly rated for protection against hail and wind speeds up to 150 mph. 

👉 Two Classic Profiles: With two stylish shingle profiles, Estate Series and American Blends, and seven colors available, there is a Revia shingle for every home. 

👉 50-Year Warranty: All Revia shingles come with a 50-year WeatherForce™ Advantage Standard Product Limited Warranty, giving homeowners peace of mind that their roofs will last for decades to come. 

👉 Upgraded Curb Appeal: Revia shingles can elevate your home’s value by up to 60% and provide enhanced curb appeal, making your home stand out in the neighborhood. 

Other Impact-Resistant Roofing Materials

Impact-resistant roofing goes beyond shingles. There's a variety of materials that can bolster your roof's defense against the elements. Here are a few noteworthy options:

Metal Roofing Systems

Metal roofs, typically made of steel, aluminum, or copper, are known for their exceptional durability. They can effectively withstand hail, heavy rain, and high winds. A metal roof's longevity often outlasts other roofing materials, making it a sustainable and cost effective option in the long run. Additionally, they are energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

Also Read: 4 Things You Wish You Knew About Metal Roof vs. Shingles

Concrete Roof Tiles

Concrete roof tiles are robust and impact-resistant. They are excellent at withstanding hail, extreme temperatures, and fire. These tiles come in various styles and colors, allowing homeowners to achieve a desired aesthetic for their homes. Concrete tiles are also known for their longevity, making them a wise investment.

Choose from these top tier shingle options to invest in a reliable, headache-free, and cost-effective roof that elevates your home’s curb appeal! If you are looking for new roofing shingles in Pennsylvania, we’re here to help.

Explore the Best Impact-Resistant Shingles in Pennsylvania!

Embrace the peace of mind you deserve. At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, we install the finest roofing shingles in Pennsylvania. We’re your friendly neighborhood contractor backed by superior workmanship, expertise, and 100% customer satisfaction. We’re proud of our skilled experts who prioritize your safety and satisfaction. Explore our unbeatable range of impact-resistant shingles and secure a lasting roof. Call us at (412) 353-5660 and schedule a free consultation with our premium roofing experts today!