Impact Resistant Roofs

While North Texas doesn’t often face direct threats to hurricanes, we do have the constant threat of severe weather. High winds, torrential downpours, and hail are a common occurrence. Homeowners in the DFW area are no strangers to hail damage and the cost that comes with it.

As our technology advances, so does the demand for a roofing material that can withstand hailstorms and other harsh weather. Installing impact-resistant shingles can almost eliminate the need for roof repairs or a full roof replacement, in the event of a hailstorm. The stronger the shingle, the less likely you will need to make repairs.

At S.W.A.T. Roofing, we specialize in Class 4 impact-resistant roof installs. Our team of licensed contractors will provide you with a free inspection of your roof to determine both the best class of shingle and the type of material. We’ll work with you to find a solution that meets your needs and your budget.

If you’re currently dealing with roof damage from a recent storm and want to learn more about Class 4 impact resistant shingles, we encourage you to read on.

What is an Impact Resistant Roof?

An impact-resistant roof is one that is made with materials strong enough to withstand most hail and wind damage. In the roofing industry, roofing materials are sorted into four different classes that determine how resistant that material is to hailstones. This is an important specification as hail can cause damage to roofing which can lead to leaks, mold damage, and more.

In areas like Dallas & Fort Worth, most homeowners have to deal with hailstorms on a regular basis and want a roofing material that can literally take a beating. Learning more about such classifications, particularly Class 4, will help you to choose the right roofing type for your home.

HOW MANY CLASSES OF ROOFING TILES ARE THERE?

Classifications for roofing shingles involving impact resistance include Class 1, 2, 3, and 4. The Classes are based on the ability of the roofing to withstand impact from steel balls, which are comparable to hail. In order to determine which class the roofing material falls under, different sizes of steel balls are pelted at the roof.

Class 1 – the lowest level of roofing shingle, can withstand damage from steel balls the size of 1-1/4 inches.

Class 2 – can withstand damage from steel balls the size of 1-1/2 inches or smaller.

Class 3 – can withstand damage from steel balls the size of 1-3/4 inches or smaller.

Class 4 – the highest level of roofing shingle, can withstand damage from steel balls that are 2 inches in diameter.

The highest class currently available with asphalt shingles is Class 4. This type of shingle will have a U.L. 2218 steel ball listing. With testing, the Class 4 impact resistant shingle will have to show no evidence of damage when the steel balls are dropped. Punctures, ruptures, splits, or cracks cannot be present. The product is viewed with a magnification glass to be able to see that there are no issues during the testing phase. Tests are performed by manufacturers to ensure the material type has the ability to provide the highest level of impact resistance available. With Class 4, the shingle has been tested with a 2-inch steel ball that has hit the area two times. The steel ball was dropped from a 20-foot distance.

Should You Invest in a Class 4 Roof System?

Investing in a Class 4 roof system is beneficial to homeowners who live in Fort Worth and Dallas that are prone to hailstorms that often produce large hailstones. The product is certainly worth considering as it is not only a durable option that will withstand damage from hailstones up to 2 inches in diameter but is one of the strongest roofing systems available to handle most severe weather. Homeowners do not have to worry about the cost of repairing damage, as they might with a lower-class roofing system.

Class 4 roofing shingles are more expensive upfront but can save you in the long run. While you’ll pay more than your standard composition roof, the dollars you’ll save on roofing repairs or even possibly a total roof replacement will more than makeup for the cost. Many insurance companies also offer discounts for home coverage premiums when a Class 4 impact-resistant roof is installed. This can make the roof type more appealing when considering a new installation.

Over time, the money you save on insurance premiums will easily pay for the new roof, not to mention the peace of mind you’ll have. You can check with your homeowner’s insurance provider to see what options you have if a new Class 4 roofing system is installed. Look for annual discounts and then see how much you will save. Compare this number to the overall pricing to see how long it would take you to recoup your investment. If you’re in the market to sell your Fort Worth or Dallas home, a Class 4 roofing system is a nice selling feature. This type of roof will boost the value of your home, yet another benefit that Class 4 shingles can provide.

Learn more about your options and speak to an expert at our office to see if your home can benefit. We look forward to working with you!