With the increasing frequency of severe convective storms, nearly two-thirds of the country is now susceptible to hailstorms. The damaging effects of wind and hail cause between 8 $–15 $ billion in roof-related damage every year in the U.S. and account for almost half of all residential insurance claims.
For homeowners—especially those in hail-prone regions—choosing the best possible roofing material can be critically important. That's where Class 4 impact resistant shingles can make all the difference. Representing the highest level of protection against storm damage, GAF Class 4 impact resistant shingles offer increased durability, performance, and long-term ROI for your home. Let's break down the details to assist you in making an informed decision about your new roof.
What Are Class 4 Impact Resistant Shingles?
Testing agencies, like Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and Factory Mutual (FM), evaluate roofing shingles in a variety of categories, including their resistance to impact. The rating system used to measure impact resistance is based on how well roof shingles can withstand simulated impacts of hail without being damaged.
Class 4 shingles are designed to withstand tough storm conditions, making them a natural choice in areas subject to the effects of hail or wind-blown debris. Because of their advanced materials and construction, Class 4 impact resistant shingles offer enhanced durability over standard asphalt shingles, which may crack or or fracture under impact, potentially making the roof vulnerable to water intrusion.
How Impact Resistance Is Tested
The standard that sets the bar for the impact resistance of roofing shingles is ANSI/UL 2218. Its testing protocol uses steel balls of various sizes, dropped from a height of up to 20 feet onto test shingles to simulate an impact. The shingles are then examined for evidence of any cracking or tearing. Class 4, which uses the largest and heaviest steel ball, is the highest rating.
Another test developed by Factory Mutual, FM 4473, uses similarly sized ice balls instead of steel balls, which are launched with a compressed air cannon. The shingles are also evaluated for visible evidence cracking or breaking.
Why GAF Class 4 Shingles Perform Better
Class 4 impact resistant shingles by GAF are made using proprietary Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene (SBS) polymer-modified asphalt and/or reinforced fiberglass mats for extra strength. They have many performance benefits that make them superior to traditional asphalt shingles:
- Increased Durability and Longevity: The addition of SBS polymer creates a stronger, more flexible material that bends without breaking and returns to its original shape after impact. It resists tearing, cracking, and loss of surface granules better than standard asphalt shingles, thus extending the roof's overall life.
- Superior Impact Resistance: The increased flexibility and resilience of SBS shingles make them more resistant to damage from hail, falling branches, and other debris.
- Better Weatherability: The combination of flexibility, durability, and granule retention means limited or reduced cracking or curling in extreme temperatures. This allows the roof to better withstand various weather conditions and keep its curb appeal for many years.
Benefits Beyond Hail Protection
Beyond the primary benefit of protection from hail, an impact resistant roof has other compelling advantages:
- Fewer Repairs: The durability and longevity of Class 4 impact resistant shingles mean fewer repairs and a longer lifespan for your roof.
- Homeowners Insurance Discounts: Depending on the insurance provider and region of the country, some insurers offer reductions in premiums for homes with a UL 2218 Class 4 roof, since they represent a lower incidence of insurance claims after damaging storms.
- Resale Value: In hail-prone areas of the country, a durable roof with enhanced hail resistance can be an important selling point and add value to your home.
- Sustainability: A roof with better storm damage protection can lessen environmental impacts. Its superior performance and longer life mean fewer roof tear-offs, less landfill waste, and reduced material consumption, all of which can contribute to a lower carbon footprint.
Cost and ROI
The upfront cost of Class 4 impact resistant shingles is often outweighed by the potential long-term savings in repairs and insurance costs, as well as the increased resale value of your home.
The payoff from impact resistant roofing is especially notable if:
- You live in an area of the country subject to moderate to very severe hail.
- You plan to stay in your home for 10 years or more.
- Your insurance provider offers discounted premiums for impact-resistant roofs.
- You are interested in reducing the environmental impact of your home.
In these cases, the ROI can be well worth your initial investment in a robust, hail-resistant roof.
Installation and Regional Considerations
Since improper installation can reduce the performance of your roof and potentially void the warranty, GAF recommends using a Master Elite® contractor to install your impact resistant shingle roof. Master Elite® contractors have proven their skill, experience, and commitment to quality through a rigorous training and certification process. They're eligible to offer a GAF Golden Pledge Limited Warranty*, which provides extensive coverage for materials and labor, including 20–30 year workmanship coverage that even includes roof tear-off and disposal.
Choosing the Right Shingle
As you consider the choice to use Class 4 impact resistant shingles for your home, the following checklist may be helpful:
- Climate: Are you in a Moderate to Very Severe Hail zone or an area with frequent, damaging storms?
- Budget: Do potential long-term savings offset a moderately higher initial investment?
- Insurance: Does your provider offer discounts for impact resistant roofs?
- Aesthetics: Does the manufacturer offer a roofing shingle that complements your home's design aesthetic?
As a homeowner looking for long-term protection, performance, and peace of mind, consider Class 4 impact resistant shingles by GAF as a smart, resilient investment in your home.
*The Golden Pledge® Limited Warranty covers certain GAF roofing products installed on your roof (the "GAF Products") including GAF Asphaltic Shingles, GAF Ridge Cap Shingles, GAF Starter Strip Shingles, GAF Leak Barrier Products, GAF Roof Deck Protection Products, GAF Cobra® Attic Ventilation Products, GAF Master Flow® Attic Exhaust Ventilation Products, and GAF Master Flow™ Pivot™ Pipe Boot Flashing, in the unlikely event that they contain a manufacturing defect. Misapplication of your GAF Products and flashings at valleys, dormers, chimneys, and plumbing vents (the "Covered Flashings") is also covered. Note: This limited warranty does not cover low-slope membranes, other Master Flow® Products, or GAF ThermaCal® Ventilated Nail Base Roof Insulation. See GAF Shingle & Accessory Limited Warranty for complete coverage and restrictions.
