Impact Resistant Shingles: Top Benefits & Features

The roofing industry has seen significant innovation and advancement in recent years. One such development is the invention of impact resistant shingles. These shingles are specifically engineered to withstand severe weather like high winds, hailstorm impacts, and more. In this article, we will dive into the world of impact resistant shingles, exploring their unique attributes, functionality, and advantages.

What Are Impact Resistant Shingles?

In the simplest of terms, impact resistant shingles are roofing materials designed to withstand high impact from elements such as hail or debris. They are made in a way that allows them to absorb the force and shock from physical impact without fracturing. This exceptional resistance is achieved through special manufacturing processes that involve the use of resilient materials such as rubberized asphalt or fiberglass.

Most of these shingles earn their impact resistance label after rigorous testing under Underwriters Laboratories (UL) 2218 Class 4, the highest rating representing the shingles' capacity to withstand hail of up to 2 inches in diameter.

The Structure of Impact Resistant Shingles

Impact resistant shingles typically consist of several main elements:

• Back mat: This forms the base layer of the shingle and is generally made from fiberglass. This layer provides the shingle with its form and dimensional stability.
• Asphalt layer: Specially formulated, flexible asphalt compound impregnates the fiberglass mat, providing waterproofing and contributing to the shingle's impact resistance.
• Top granule layer: Made from mineral granules, this layer helps to protect the shingle from UV radiation, gives the shingle its color and contributes to fire resistance.

Types of Impact Resistant Shingles

Impact resistant shingles come in various types including three-tab, dimensional, and designer shingles. Their categories depend on the method through which they achieve their impact resistance:

• Rubberized Shingles: These combine asphalt with rubber polymers to give the shingle flexibility and impact resistance.
• Multilayered Shingles: These have multiple layers of material bonded together, usually with modified asphalt, to provide the desired durability.
• Shingles with Polymer Modification: Some shingles use plastics or other polymers mixed in with asphalt to improve impact resistance.

Why Impact Resistant Shingles Matter

Impact resistant shingles offer numerous benefits to homeowners, including:

• High Durability: These shingles can withstand severe weather conditions, reducing the likelihood of damage and resulting repairs.
• Long Lifespan: Due to their superior durability, they tend to last longer than traditional shingles.
• Insurance Advantages: Many insurance companies offer discounts on policies for homes with these types of shingles, as they reduce the risk of damage.
• Aesthetics: Despite their stout construction, impact resistant shingles do not sacrifice appearance, coming in a variety of styles and colors to match any home design.

Cost of Impact Resistant Shingles

These shingles come at a premium compared to traditional asphalt shingles. However, their benefits like longevity, decreased maintenance, and potential insurance discounts can help offset the higher upfront cost.

Frequently Asked Questions about Impact Resistant Shingles

Are Impact Resistant Shingles Worth the Investment?

Investing in impact resistant shingles can be a major asset, particularly if you live in areas often affected by extreme weather conditions such as hail or snow. These shingles can endure the blows of these elements, thereby saving you the costs of frequent repairs or replacements. Plus, several insurance companies offer policy discounts when you install impact resistant shingles, which further underscores their value.

What Materials are Used to Make Impact Resistant Shingles?

Impact resistant shingles are made from different materials depending upon their class rating. Class 4 shingles, the highest rating, are usually made from a mix of rubber and plastic (or sometimes metal), which bolsters their toughness and flexibility. Lower classes may use asphalt but with from changes in design like added thickness to improve their resistance to impact.

How are Impact Resistant Shingles Tested?

Impact resistance of a shingle is determined by its Underwriters Laboratories (UL) rating. This system involves a steel ball, about two inches in diameter, falling from different heights onto the shingles. If the shingle cracks after the test, it's given a lower rating (like class 1 or 2). However, if it survives multiple drops without cracking, it can earn a higher rating (like class 4).

What is the Lifespan of Impact Resistant Shingles?

Impact resistant shingles have a longer lifespan compared to traditional asphalt shingles, owing to their robust build and superior materials. They can last for 30 to 50 years depending on maintenance, weather conditions and installation quality.

How do I Maintain Impact Resistant Shingles?

The maintenance for impact resistant shingles is relatively straightforward. Regular inspections, preferably twice a year, can help identify potential issues. It's crucial to check for any signs of aging, cracking, or curling. Also, ensure that your gutters are clean as clogged gutters can lead to water backup damaging the shingles and roof structure.

How are Impact Resistant Shingles Installed?

Proper installation of impact resistant shingles is key to its performance and longevity. The process involves removing old roofing, preparing the roof deck, laying an underlayment for added protection then installing the shingles according to manufacturer's specifications. It's not typically a DIY job and should be done preferably by professional roofers.

Can Impact Resistant Shingles Enhance My Home's Appearance?

Yes, they certainly can! Impact resistant shingles combine functionality with aesthetic appeal. They come in a wide range of colors, styles and textures. You can choose from a variety that mimics the pleasantly rustic look of wood shakes or the timeless elegance of slate tiles.

How Do I Know if I have Impact Resistant Shingles?

To identify if your shingles are impact resistant, you can look for specific ratings or distinctive design elements. Check for UL2218 class 4 labeling or a unique pattern on the back of the shingles, which is often indicative of impact resistance. It’s best to have a professional roofer verify if you're uncertain.

Pros of Impact Resistant Shingles

Increased Durability

In comparison to standard shingles, impact resistant shingles are significantly tougher. They're designed to withstand the effects of severe hail, wind, and precipitation, which is why they're often utilized in places with volatile climatic conditions. They are engineered to resist impact from a 2-inch steel ball dropped from a height of 20 feet, mimicking the force of a large hailstone. In doing so, impact resistant shingles reduce the probability of punctures, cracks, and other damage, prolonging the lifespan of your roof.

Lower Insurance Premiums

Insurance companies often provide discounts on homeowners' premiums if the roof is fitted with impact resistant shingles. Given that these shingles minimize the risk of costly hail and wind damage, insurance providers have less risk of having to pay for expensive roof repair or replacement jobs. Therefore, although impact resistant shingles may have a higher upfront cost, they can save you money over time through insurance savings.

Improved Home Value

Installing impact resistant shingles can boost the value of your home. Prospective homebuyers value the added durability that these shingles provide, especially in areas prone to severe weather. Therefore, you might be able to recoup some or all of the cost of these shingles when you decide to sell your home.

Environmentally Friendly

Standard shingles that get damaged frequently from hail or wind end up in landfills. Impact resistant shingles last significantly longer, reducing the amount of waste that winds up in the dump. In this regard, they're a more eco-friendly roofing choice.

Cons of Impact Resistant Shingles

Higher Upfront Costs

One of the most significant drawbacks of impact resistant shingles is their upfront cost. They are more expensive to purchase and install than regular shingles. While the potential for insurance savings and longer lifespan can partially offset these higher costs, homeowners looking at the immediate costs may find them too expensive.

Not Completely Indestructible

While impact resistant shingles are designed to resist hail and wind, they are not impervious. Massive hailstones, tree branches, or other large debris can still damage these shingles. Homeowners in extreme weather areas may still experience roofing damage despite the added durability.

Not All Insurance Companies Offer Discounts

While many insurance companies offer discounts for impact resistant roofs, this is not a universal practice. Some companies do not offer significant reductions, which could limit the cost-saving benefits of installing these shingles.

Limited Color and Style Availability

Compared to regular asphalt shingles, there might be less variety in terms of colors and styles when it comes to impact resistant shingles. For homeowners who are particular about the aesthetics of their roof, this could pose an issue.

Replacement Complexity

Should the need for roof repair arise, replacing impact resistant shingles can be a complex process. Special equipment and expertise are necessary, making DIY repair almost impossible. This could lead to higher repair costs and the need for professional help.

Myths / Misconceptions about Impact Resistant Shingles

Myth 1: All Shingles are Impact Resistant

Explanation

One common misconception is that all shingles are impact resistant. This is incorrect. There are several types of roofing shingles available in the market, and not all are designed to withstand high impact from objects such as hailstones. Shingles made from materials like asphalt, fiberglass, and wood are not naturally impact resistant. Impact resistant shingles are specially designed with materials and technology to withstand high-impact forces. They are usually marked with a Class 4 rating - the highest rating for impact resistance given by Underwriters Laboratories, an independent product safety certification organization.

Myth 2: Impact Resistant Shingles are Indestructible

Explanation

Though impact resistant shingles are designed to withstand severe weather conditions, they are not indestructible. Over time, they can still show signs of wear and tear, just like any other roofing material. They can be prone to aging, continued exposure to harsh weather conditions and UV rays, which can gradually degrade the material, causing it to lose its impact resistance capabilities.

Myth 3: All Impact Resistant Shingles are made of Metal

Explanation

While there’s a widespread belief that all impact resistant shingles are made of metal, the truth is, they can be made from various materials. Many impact-resistant shingles are made using a rubberized asphalt material, which has better impact absorption properties. Other kinds of impact-resistant shingles are made with modified asphalt or polymer-based materials. In essence, while metal shingles can indeed be impact-resistant, not all impact-resistant shingles are made of metal.

Myth 4: Impact Resistant Shingles are only Necessary in Hail-Prone Areas

Explanation

While it is indeed true that homeowners in hail-prone areas can most immediately benefit from impact resistant shingles, these specialized shingles can also be advantageous in areas that don't typically experience hail. They are not only resistant to hail, but also other forms of harsh weather conditions such as extreme heat, heavy rain, and strong winds, and therefore can enhance the longevity of the roof in a wide range of locales.

Myth 5: Impact Resistant Shingles are not Cost-Effective

Explanation

Some homeowners believe that impact resistant shingles are not cost-effective due to their higher initial cost. However, considering their durability and lifespan, they can prove to be more cost-effective in the long run. Many insurance companies offer premium discounts for homes with impact resistant roofs, given that these shingles lessen the risk of damage and subsequent repair or replacement. Moreover, when it does come time to sell, a home with a roof made of impact resistant shingles can often command a higher price.

Myth 6: Switching to Impact Resistant Shingles requires an Entire Roof Replacement

Explanation

While switching to impact resistant shingles might be easier during a complete roof replacement, it's not always necessary to replace the entire roof to upgrade to these more durable shingles. If the existing roof is in decent condition, it might be possible to install impact resistant shingles on top of the current roofing. Always consult with a certified professional roofer to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

Myth 7: Impact Resistant Shingles all Look the Same

Explanation

Contrary to popular belief, impact resistant shingles come in a wide array of colors, styles, and textures. They can mimic the look of wood shake, slate, and even traditional asphalt shingles. This means you can upgrade to impact resistant shingles without sacrificing the aesthetic appeal of your home.

These misconceptions about impact resistant shingles can mislead homeowners about their value and functionality. Fully understanding the facts about these shingles can help homeowners to make an informed decision about the best roofing option for their home.

Summary

So there you have it. When you're looking for roofing that can withstand harsh weather conditions, impact resistant shingles are the way to go. They're designed to absorb and dissipate the energy of falling objects - thus, avoiding damage. These shingles might cost a bit more upfront, but their durability and longevity can save you from costly repairs down the road.

Consider this - we often invest in cars with airbags or buildings with earthquake resistant features. Why not invest in a roof with impact resistant shingles? They protect your home, increase its value, and give you peace of mind knowing that your roof can handle whatever Mother Nature throws at it. In the long run, it's an investment worth making.

So next time you're making roofing decisions, don't overlook the importance of shingle quality. Impact resistant shingles sure make a difference when dealing with storms or hail. Don’t hesitate to ask a roofer about it or do your own research. A little extra preparation today could prevent a world of stress and financial strain in the future.

About GVD Renovations & Remodeling

GVD Renovations & Remodeling is a premier home renovation services provider based in Roseville, CA. Serving homeowners since decades, we're known for our impressive craftsmanship and dedicated work ethic. Our team of experienced professionals specializes in transforming old, worn-out spaces into beautiful, refreshed living areas. We offer a wide range of services including kitchen and bathroom remodeling, siding installation, and window replacement. With GVD Renovations & Remodeling, clients get the benefit of unmatchable quality within affordable prices, transforming their houses into homes of their dreams. We prioritize customer satisfaction and aim to exceed expectations, no wonder we're a trusted name in the home renovation industry in Roseville, CA.