When we were children, the crack of thunder and howling winds sent shivers of fear up our spines. As we get older, we learn not to be afraid of wild weather. That is until we become homeowners.

Owning your own property comes with a lot of responsibilities. One of those responsibilities includes making sure that your home is in tip-top shape after severe weather passes through town. If you are running into reoccurring roof problems, though, it can feel hugely discouraging.

We have a secret for you: the weather isn’t the problem. Your shingles are! Standard asphalt shingles aren’t always up to the task of protecting your home from frequent, severe weather. The answer? Upgrading to impact resistant shingles!

With impact resistant shingles, you can:

• Worry less
• Spend less money on repairs
• Face any storm that comes your way

Interested? Keep reading as we break down what exactly constitutes an impact resistant shingle and why it might be right for your home.

What Are Impact Resistant Shingles?

Most homes in the USA have asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles are affordable and easy to repair but aren’t the most durable material on the market. However, alternative roofing materials can be significantly more expensive and do not fit everyone’s budget. Plus, premium roofing materials such as metal or clay can look out of place in the average neighborhood. So, what’s a humble homeowner to do?

Enter: impact resistant shingles. Impact resistant shingles – also known as architectural shingles –  have a similar composition to standard asphalt shingles and look identical. The difference? They can handle much wilder weather.

Impact resistant shingles are designed to be more flexible than their standard counterparts. This allows them to better stand up to impact from hail, debris, and falling tree limbs. This means you can spend less time repairing your roof and more time living your life!

4 Shingle Classifications

Shingles in the USA are ranked in a four-class system to determine their impact resistance. The rankings work as follows:

• Class 1 Impact Resistant: Can withstand a 1.25″ steel ball dropped from 12 ft.
• Class 2 Impact Resistant: Can withstand a 1.5″ steel ball dropped from 15 ft.
• Class 3 Impact Resistant: Can withstand a 1.75″ steel ball dropped from 17 ft.
• Class 4 Impact Resistant: Can withstand a 2″ steel ball dropped from 20 ft.

Impact resistant roof shingles include any shingles that receive a Class 4 Impact Resistant rating.

Pros and Cons of Impact Resistant Shingles

So, what exactly are the pros and cons of impact resistant shingles?

✅Pros:

• Durability – Obviously, the reason many people turn to impact resistant roofing shingles instead of regular asphalt shingles is the increased durability. This allows for fewer roof repairs in the long run.
• Cost – Compared to more expensive roofing materials, installing impact resistant shingles is a relatively affordable option. Not only are the upfront costs smaller, but it will save you money on roof repairs in the future. (Pssst…did you know that some insurance companies offer discounts for homeowners who invest in impact resistant shingles?)
• Aesthetics – While you’re gaining durability, you don’t have to sacrifice looks! Class 4 impact resistant shingles look identical to traditional shingles so that you can preserve the exterior style of your home.

❌Cons:

• Cost – Wait a minute! You said cost was one of the pros! It’s true that impact resistant shingles are less expensive than other damage-resistant roofing materials like metal. That being said, Class 4 shingles will cost more than standard 3-tab asphalt shingles.
• Lifespan – Adding impact resistance to your roof will extend its lifespan, for sure. That being said, you’re still looking at a lifespan closer to 30 years. More high-end roofing materials can last up to 50 years while still being just as durable.

How Much Do Impact Resistant Shingles Cost?

We know the big question on your mind. How much do they cost?

You can expect to pay roughly 10-25% more for class 4 impact resistant shingles than you would for traditional shingles. On an average 1600-square-foot home, you can expect to pay between $5,000-$15,000.

Who Are Impact Resistant Shingles Best For?

So, are impact resistant shingles right for you and your home?

The truth is that not every home will require shingles that powerful. In general, we would recommend class 4 impact resistant shingles for homes that experience a lot of extreme weather. This could include:

• Hail 🧊
• Hurricanes 🌊
• Tornados 🌪️
• High winds 🌬️

5 Signs Your Shingles Need Replacing

How do you know when it is time for a roof replacement? Here are some signs that your shingles are on their last legs.

1) Loss of Granules

Have you been finding a gritty black substance in your gutters and on your driveway? Those are granules from your shingles! Granule loss is a natural part of the lifespan of shingles but can be sped up when your roof is exposed to extreme winds and hail.

If you are seeing an excessive granule loss, it may be time to think about replacing your roofing shingles.

2) Blown-Off Shingles

High winds can blow shingles right off your roof. Noticing missing shingles or finding them in your yard? You’ll want to replace them ASAP to avoid dealing with water intrusion in your home. If you’re frequently dealing with blown-off shingles, though, it could be a sign that your roof is on its way out.

3) Cracks or Divots

One of the most common types of hail damage to shingles includes the formation of cracks and divots. While these may not look like a particularly big deal, they can allow water to seep through to the underlayers of your roof, which can mean more expensive repairs and replacements down the road. Investing in hail-resistant shingles can help save you money and worry.

4) Leaks

Dealing with persistent roof leaks? There’s a good sign you’re dealing with a roofing problem that needs immediate attention.

5) Moss Growth

Moss thrives in a moist environment. If it is growing on your roof, it likely means that you are dealing with a moisture-damaged roof.

Talk With a Roofing Pro About Your Options

Are impact resistant shingles worth it for your home? The best way to determine whether they are the right choice for you is to consult with a professional roofing contractor. At Dreamworx Roofing, we can help assess your roof and come up with an action plan that will keep your home safe all year long. Contact us today to set up your roofing appointment!

Charlie Anderson

“Living comfortably at home means living in a safe, cozy house that protects you from outside elements.” -Dreamworx Co-Owner, Charlie Anderson