Are Impact Resistant Shingles Worth It for Your Home?
Are Impact Resistant Shingles Worth It?
Yes, impact resistant shingles are worth it.
They provide better protection against hail and wind, come with better warranties, and insurance companies offer discounts on premiums for having them.
They can last up to 30 years, compared to 20 years for regular shingles, and offer a range of features such as SBS modified asphalt for increased flexibility.
Major manufacturers such as Owens Corning, CertainTeed, and GAF offer impact resistant shingles, with stone-coated metal shingles being the most durable option.
While they may come at a higher initial cost, their extended lifespan and eco-friendly qualities make them a worthwhile investment.
Key Points:
- Impact resistant shingles provide better protection against hail and wind
- They come with better warranties and can last up to 30 years
- Insurance companies offer discounts on premiums for having impact resistant shingles
- Major manufacturers like Owens Corning, CertainTeed, and GAF offer impact resistant shingles
- Stone-coated metal shingles are the most durable option
- Despite the higher initial cost, impact resistant shingles are a worthwhile investment due to their extended lifespan and eco-friendly qualities
Did You Know?
1. Impact-resistant shingles are designed to withstand strong winds and hailstorms, providing an extra layer of protection for your roof.
2. Some impact-resistant shingles are so durable that they can withstand the impact of a 2-inch steel ball being dropped from a height of 20 feet.
3. Impact-resistant shingles are often made with a reinforced fiberglass mat or an additional layer of asphalt, making them more flexible and resilient.
4. By installing impact-resistant shingles, homeowners may be eligible for insurance premium discounts, as they reduce the risk of costly damage to the roof.
5. While impact-resistant shingles do come with a higher initial cost compared to regular shingles, they can save you money in the long run by reducing repair and replacement expenses caused by severe weather conditions.
Benefits Of Impact Resistant Shingles
Investing in impact resistant shingles for your home offers several benefits that make them worthwhile despite the extra cost. Here are some key advantages to consider:
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Insurance discounts: Many insurance companies provide discounts on premiums for homes with impact resistant shingles. These shingles are recognized for their increased durability and resistance to damage. Discounts typically range from 15% to 30%, helping you save on insurance costs.
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Hail and wind resistance: Impact resistant shingles are specifically designed to better withstand hail and high winds compared to non-impact resistant shingles. Their construction allows them to resist the impact of objects such as hail more effectively, minimizing the risk of roof damage. This resilience can potentially save you from costly repairs and replacements.
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Extended lifespan: Impact resistant shingles often come with better warranties compared to regular non-impact resistant shingles. While traditional 3-tab shingles have an average life expectancy of around 20 years, impact resistant shingles can last closer to 30 years. This longer lifespan not only brings peace of mind but also saves you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent re-roofing.
It’s important to note that not all impact resistant shingles are created equal. Some shingles are made with SBS modified asphalt, making them even more pliable and flexible. This further enhances their ability to withstand impacts. To ensure their performance, impact resistant shingles, like other roofing shingles, undergo testing by reputable organizations such as Underwriters Laboratory (UL).
In summary, investing in impact resistant shingles can provide you with insurance discounts, superior resistance to hail and high winds, and a longer lifespan. When considering these shingles, it’s important to choose ones that meet the necessary quality standards and undergo appropriate testing.
For more information, refer to the following sources:
- Insurance Benefits of Impact Resistant Shingles
- Testing and Certification of Impact Resistant Shingles
Different Types And Brands Of Impact Resistant Shingles
When it comes to impact resistant shingles, there are several options available in the market. Choosing the right type and brand can greatly affect the overall effectiveness and durability of your roof.
Owens Corning’s TruDefinition Duration Storm shingles are a popular choice for impact resistance in Colorado. They are known for their durability and have various features that make them stand out.
Tamko offers Stormfighter IR shingles that have a wind rating of up to 160MPH and qualify for a UL 2218 Class 4 Impact Rating. These shingles provide excellent resistance against both wind and hail damage, ensuring the longevity of your roof.
CertainTeed manufactures four impact resistant shingles that are not only resistant to impacts but are also Class-A fire resistant, high-wind rated, and backed by a lifetime limited warranty. These shingles provide exceptional protection and longevity for your home.
GAF provides the Timberline AS II and Grand Sequoia AS shingles, both of which are Class-4 impact resistant, Class-A fire rated, high-wind resistant, and come with Lifetime Limited warranties. These shingles offer a comprehensive solution for those looking for increased durability and protection.
Another reputable brand is Malarkey, offering Legacy and Legacy Scotchgard impact resistant shingles with a Class-4 impact rating. These shingles provide superior resistance against hail and other impacts, ensuring the longevity of your roof.
It’s worth noting that impact resistant shingles aren’t limited to asphalt options. Stone-coated metal shingles are considered the most impact resistant option available. Known for their durability and longevity, metal shingles can last two to three times longer than traditional asphalt shingles. Additionally, metal shingles often come with other benefits such as high-wind resistance and limited lifetime warranties.
Impact Resistant Shingles Vs. Traditional Shingles
When comparing impact resistant shingles to traditional shingles, there are several key differences to consider.
- Traditional shingles may have a lower initial cost, but they are more susceptible to damage from hail, strong winds, and other impacts. This can result in costly repairs and replacements over time.
On the other hand, impact resistant shingles are designed to withstand impacts better than traditional shingles, making them more suitable for areas prone to hailstorms or strong winds. They not only offer better protection but also have a longer lifespan, reducing the frequency of re-roofing and saving you money in the long run.
Moreover, impact resistant shingles often come with additional benefits such as high-wind resistance and Class-A fire ratings. These features provide an extra layer of protection and safety for your home, giving you peace of mind during extreme weather events.
- Impact resistant shingles offer better protection against hail, strong winds, and impacts.
- They have a longer lifespan compared to traditional shingles, reducing the need for frequent repairs and replacements.
- High-wind resistance and Class-A fire ratings are additional benefits of impact resistant shingles, ensuring enhanced protection and safety for your home.
Impact resistant shingles are a great choice for areas prone to extreme weather conditions.
Metal Shingles: The Most Impact Resistant Option
Among the various options available, metal shingles are considered the most impact resistant option for your roof. In addition to their impact resistance, metal shingles offer numerous other benefits that make them an attractive choice. While they may come with a higher initial cost compared to traditional asphalt shingles, they last significantly longer, usually two to three times longer. This extended lifespan can offset the higher upfront investment.
Metal shingles are also recyclable, making them a more eco-friendly option. They can be repurposed instead of contributing to landfills at the end of their lifespan. Furthermore, metal shingles often come with high-wind resistance and limited lifetime warranties, ensuring the long-term durability of your roof.
For maximum durability and resistance against impacts, stone-coated metal shingles are highly recommended. These shingles combine the strength of metal with the aesthetics of traditional shingles, tile, or wood shake. With their long lifespan and resemblance to more traditional roofing materials, stone-coated metal shingles offer an excellent balance of style and durability.
Determining The Need For Impact Resistant Shingles
Deciding whether impact resistant shingles are necessary for your home depends on various factors. If you live in an area prone to hailstorms or strong winds, investing in impact resistant shingles can provide valuable protection and peace of mind. Additionally, the potential discounts offered by insurance companies on premiums can offset the higher initial cost of these shingles.
It’s also important to consider local building codes and requirements. Some areas may have specific regulations for roofing materials, requiring certain levels of impact resistance. Consulting with a professional roofing contractor and taking advantage of any free estimates and consultations they offer can help determine the need for impact resistant shingles based on your specific circumstances.
impact resistant shingles are worth the additional cost for homeowners looking for increased durability, resistance to hail and wind, better warranties, and potential discounts on insurance premiums. While traditional shingles may have a lower upfront cost, they are more prone to damage and may require frequent repairs or replacements. By investing in impact resistant shingles, such as those offered by reputable brands like Owens Corning, CertainTeed, and GAF, homeowners can enjoy a longer-lasting roof with enhanced protection against impacts and severe weather conditions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the disadvantages of impact resistant shingles?
Impact resistant shingles do come with a few drawbacks. One significant disadvantage is that, although they are designed to resist hail damage, there is still a possibility that the shingles can be compromised under particularly severe hailstorms. This lack of a manufacturer warranty for hail damage can be concerning for homeowners seeking long-term protection for their roofs. Furthermore, in areas where severe hail damage occurs infrequently, investing in impact resistant shingles may not be cost-effective as the additional expense may not be justified by the limited occurrence of hail damage.
How effective are impact resistant shingles?
Impact-resistant shingles have proven to be highly effective in providing premium weather resistance. Their specially engineered design allows them to withstand a wide range of extreme weather conditions, including hail, wind, and sleet. With some Class 4 rated shingles being able to endure winds up to 130 mph, these shingles offer homeowners a sense of security against powerful storms, comparable to the strength required to withstand a Category 4 Hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson scale. In summary, impact-resistant shingles are a valuable investment to protect your home from the harshest weather conditions.
How long do impact resistant shingles last?
Impact resistant shingles provide exceptional longevity compared to traditional shingles. With routine maintenance and repairs, these durable shingles can endure for an impressive 30 to 50 years. The increased lifespan is a result of their enhanced resistance to impact, allowing them to withstand various weather conditions and potential damage. By investing in impact resistant shingles, homeowners can enjoy a long-lasting and reliable roofing solution that offers both peace of mind and long-term savings.
Are impact shingles worth it?
Impact shingles are undoubtedly worth the investment. Aside from safeguarding your home against significant storms that could inflict damage on traditional shingles and result in costly roof replacements, impact shingles boast superior durability compared to regular asphalt shingles. This not only ensures long-lasting protection but also alleviates the need for frequent roof replacements, ultimately saving you both time and money in the long run. By opting for impact shingles, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a resilient and cost-effective roofing solution.