Class 4 Asphalt Shingles for Long Lasting Roofs

Class 4 asphalt shingles are a game-changer for homeowners looking for a long-lasting roof. They have been tested to withstand the impact of 2-inch steel balls, which is a significant upgrade from Class 3 shingles that can only withstand 1.5-inch steel balls.

One of the key benefits of Class 4 asphalt shingles is their durability. They can withstand extreme weather conditions, including heavy rain and hail, without compromising their integrity.

In fact, Class 4 asphalt shingles are so durable that they can last for 25 years or more, depending on the manufacturer and installation quality. This is a significant investment for homeowners who want a low-maintenance roof that will last a lifetime.

Impact-resistant shingles, also known as IR shingles, are made to be more resistant to hail damage to your roof. They're designed to withstand hail up to 2” in diameter, which is a significant improvement over traditional shingles.

The Underwriters Laboratory (UL) test, also known as the steel ball test, is used to measure a shingle's impact resistance. A 2-inch steel ball is dropped from 20 feet above a shingle, simulating the impact of hail. If the shingle passes the test, it's assigned a Class 4 impact rating.

To qualify for a Class 4 impact rating, a shingle must be able to withstand the impact of a 2” steel or ice ball dropped from 20 feet. Unfortunately, the tests can’t 100% replicate shingle performance due to factors like temperature, shingle age, and roof angle.

A Class 4 impact rating is the highest a roofing material can achieve, and it's a significant advantage in areas prone to hail storms. Insurance companies may even offer discounts on roofs with a Class 4 impact resistance rating.

Here are the classifications for both UL and FM impact ratings:

Manufacturers make impact-resistant shingles by adding a polymer-modified mesh or a rubber-type polymer to the asphalt shingles. This ensures the shingles hold together instead of splitting when hail or another object hits them.

Class 4 asphalt shingles are a worthwhile investment, especially in areas prone to hail or wind storms. They can be more expensive upfront, but the benefits make them a smart choice.

Protecting your home from costly repairs is a top priority, and Class 4 shingles deliver. They're designed to withstand severe weather conditions.

Having a roof that's less likely to need repairs can also boost your home's resale value. Potential buyers are often willing to pay more for a home with a durable roof.

In areas with frequent hail or wind storms, the extra cost of Class 4 shingles may be worth it in the long run.

Class 4 asphalt shingles are designed to withstand the toughest weather conditions, including hail and other debris in storms. Industry-leading roofing companies have developed these shingles to reduce roof damage from storms.

One of the key features of Class 4 asphalt shingles is their impact resistance, which is achieved through the use of reinforced, polymer-based mesh embedded in the asphalt. This mesh prevents the shingle's splitting if it's struck by hailstones or other objects.

The mesh is added to the back of a standard asphalt roof shingle, making it a simple and effective design solution.

Design plays a crucial role in enhancing the strength and durability of roof shingles. Industry-leading roofing companies have developed asphalt roofing shingles that are more resilient to impact and can reduce roof damage from storms.

Two types of impact-resistant shingles are common: mesh-reinforced shingles and SBS polymer-modified shingles. The mesh is a reinforced, polymer-based mesh embedded in the asphalt, while SBS polymers create a shingle with a rubberizing effect that is more flexible and capable of recovering from damage.

Class 4 shingles are built to last, with exceptional durability and resistance to impact and extreme weather conditions. This means they can endure much longer than standard shingles, saving you money on replacement costs in the long run.

The ArmourZone is a key design feature that enhances the strength and durability of asphalt shingles. It provides a 1-1/4” wide nailing surface for correct nail placement, reinforced by a tear-resistant band that gives even more fastening strength over a wider surface area.

Here are the two types of impact-resistant shingles:

These design enhancements can provide extreme protection against the elements and extreme curb appeal, making them a great choice for areas prone to high wind, severe storms, or hail.

The specifications of the product are quite impressive. The shingles measure 40 7/8" x 13 3/4" (1038 mm x 349 mm) in size.

These dimensions are crucial for ensuring a proper fit on your roof. The product also has a limited lifetime warranty, which is a big plus.

The warranty offers protection for up to 15 years, and it's also resistant to high winds, with a rating of up to 130 mph (210 km/h). This is a significant advantage for homeowners in areas prone to strong winds.

Here are some key specifications at a glance:

The product is also designed to meet specific building codes, including the Miami-Dade NOA and Florida Product Approval. This ensures that the shingles meet the necessary standards for safety and durability.

Class 4 asphalt shingles are generally more expensive than standard asphalt shingles, with costs ranging from 20% to 40% more, depending on the brand and quality.

The installation of Class 4 shingles may require more labor and expertise, which can increase the overall cost. However, this investment pays off in the long term due to the extended lifespan and reduced maintenance needs.

Material costs can add up quickly, and it's essential to consider them when planning your roofing project. Class 4 shingles are generally more expensive than standard asphalt shingles. You can expect to pay anywhere from 20% to 40% more for Class 4 shingles, depending on the brand and quality.

Class 4 shingles are generally more expensive than standard asphalt shingles, with prices ranging from 20% to 40% more, depending on the brand and quality.

The installation of Class 4 shingles may require more labor and expertise, which can also increase the overall cost.

Material costs are a significant factor, with Class 4 shingles being pricier than standard options.

You can expect to pay more for Class 4 shingles, but this investment pays off in the long term due to the extended lifespan and reduced maintenance needs.

Here's a breakdown of the expenses involved:

Class 4 asphalt shingles are built to last, with a resistance to impact and extreme weather conditions that can endure much longer than standard shingles. This exceptional durability can save you money on replacement costs in the long run.

Their ability to withstand hailstorms is a key factor in their durability, allowing them to endure hailstones of significant size without sustaining damage.

According to the UL 2218 test, a Class 4 shingle must be able to withstand being dropped repeatedly from 20 feet above the ground by a 2-inch steel ball. This test can be repeated on a 4-inch concrete paver to get a better idea of what the steel ball does to shingles.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Severe Storms Database reports that 4,610 hail storms occurred in the United States in 2018, resulting in billions in damages.

Class 4 asphalt shingles are the highest rated for impact resistance, but what does that really mean? They can withstand a steel ball being dropped from 20 feet above the ground, multiple times.

To qualify for a Class 4 rating, a shingle must be able to handle the impact of a 2-inch steel or ice ball dropped from 20 feet. This is the same for both Factory Mutual (FM) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) tests.

The tests are designed to simulate the impact of hail, but they can't perfectly replicate real-world conditions. Factors like temperature, shingle age, and angle of impact can affect the results.

Here's a breakdown of the impact resistance ratings for shingles:

In simple terms, if you live in an area prone to hail, Class 4 shingles are a good investment to protect your home.