What is Class 4 Impact Resistance?
Many of the characteristics of Class 4 make it a good investment option for today’s homeowners. Although Class 4 shingles have a higher upfront cost, they can become an affordable roofing solution over time by reducing repair expenses, extending roof life, and potentially lowering insurance premiums. For example, the integrity of these specific composite tiles resisting the impact of Phase 4 reduces long-term repairs and maintenance costs, extends the duration of the roof, increases the value of home sales, and can reduce insurance rates. In addition, the easy installation of composite tiles that withstand the effects of Class 4 lowers installation costs.
Why would homeowners need class 4 impact-resistant shingles?
If you have been in Norman for a long time, we know you are suffering from the worst weather in Oklahoma. Hail damage, unfortunately, is common in Norman, and communities are still recovering from hail damage many years later. If you have a new home and want to change shingles anyway, using impact-resistant shingles will give you additional benefits.
Severe weather conditions can cause hail and create long-term problems with the roof.
Homeowners in hail-prone areas can reduce the risk of impact damage to their homes by installing Class 4 shingles. Insurance companies will only approve a claim lodged after a hurricane, so it is best to determine if your roof is damaged as soon as possible whenever hail strikes a local area. Many insurance companies offer a discount to homes with Class 4 shingles.
The strength and durability of a house depend on the roof. The solid roof represents hail, rain, snow, and debris and protects the building and the interior. Conversely, a worn or damaged roof can quickly lead to serious water problems in all parts of the house and substantial repair bills.
Worryingly, hail and wind damage to the roof caused widespread home insurance claims (41 percent between 2014 and 2018) and caused property damage of $ 13 billion by 2011 and thus, since 2012, the cost of roofing materials and labor has increased dramatically. Last year alone, building materials grew by 1.8 percent, and workers increased by 6.3 percent — a trend is expected to continue and challenge homeowners and insurance companies.
Impact-resistant shingles ensure that the roof will retain its strength and integrity against flying debris, hail, and winds of up to 110 mph. They reach the level of UL 2218 Class 4. Since 1996, UL 2218 has provided a national standard for measuring the impact of roofing materials. The building materials reach a grade between Class 1 to 4 based on their resistance to the impact of steel balls of various sizes, imitating 90 mph hail. The strongest roofing materials are Class 4.
How to measure the Impact of the Roofing?
UL performed its UL 2218 test within a controlled area to measure the impact resistance of roof shingles. The results provide impact-resistant data for test