Trying to find the best Class-4 impact-rated asphalt roofing shingles from every shingle manufacturer today can be daunting. Some make it easy to find Class-4-rated shingles on their websites. However, some do not.
That’s why we’ve assembled this list. Everyone on this list makes a Class-4 storm-ready shingle you can count on. However, the ones at the top are the best, in our opinion.
What Does Class-4 Impact-Rated Mean
Roof shingle impact ratings range from 1 to 4, with 4 being the most resistant to impacts. To achieve a Class-4 rating, shingles must endure the impact of a 2-inch steel ball dropped from 20 feet without showing any signs of damage. To achieve a Class-3 rating, shingles must withstand the impact of a 1-3/4″ steel ball dropped from a height of 17′. For Class-2, a 1-1/2″ steel ball from 15′. Class-1, a 1-1/4″ steel ball from 12′.
Our Favorite Class-4 Impact Rated Roofing Shingles
Owens Corning
Owens Corning, founded in 1935, is a household name in roofing shingles. Millions of Coloradans rely on their products to protect their homes from the weather. Of OC’s 4 Class-4 impact-rated asphalt roofing shingles, we like their Duration Storm and Duration Flex the best. There are many reasons we like these shingles.
One of the reasons we like Owens Corning is their nailing line. Every asphalt shingle has a strip of asphalt adhesive on the back that holds it down to the shingle beneath it. This strip is also where we install the nails. With Owens Corning, this nailing line, they call it their SureNail Technology, it’s wider than most others, which helps their shingles stay down in strong winds.
TruDefinition Duration Storm – These shingles are not only Class-4 impact-rated, but also have OC’s WeatherGuard and SureNail Tech, a 110/130mph wind warranty, and a limited lifetime warranty.
TruDefinition Duration Flex – In addition to being Class-4 impact-rated, having OC’s SureNail tech, a 110/130mph wind warranty, and a limited lifetime warranty, these Flex shingles are also SBS rubber-modified. This helps hail bounce right off.
Tamko
Tamko is a rising star, partly thanks to the success of their Stormfighter shingles. Founded in 1944, Tamko is now one of the largest manufacturers of roofing products in the U.S. What sets them apart is that their Stormfighter Flex and HailGuard shingles can be installed in temperatures below freezing and come with a 160mph wind warranty.
Stormfighter – Class-4 impact-rated and ready to defend your home, these proven asphalt shingles can also be installed in temperatures down to 25º and rising. They also come with an unheard-of 160mph wind warranty.
HailGuard – Go beyond the traditional Class-4 impact rating with Tamko’s HailGuard shingles. In a first for the roofing industry, these new shingles offer a hail warranty. If you live in an area of Northern Colorado that’s sure to get damaging hail, ask us about Tamko’s HailGuard shingles.
GAF
Timberline AS II – Although GAF started as a painting company, they’re well-known today as a reliable manufacturer of roofing products. Notably, their Timberline series. These shingles are SBS-modified, which enhances their impact resistance.
CertainTeed
NorthGate ClimateFlex – CertainTeed offers a number of Class-4 impact-rated shingles. However, their NorthGate ClimateFlex shingles are engineered for maximum hail resistance. They also come with a 15-year 110mph wind warranty, upgradable to 160mph, and a transferable lifetime limited warranty against manufacturing defects.
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking for the best class-4 impact-rated asphalt roofing shingles, you can’t go wrong with any of the above. All of these will serve you well and protect your home for years. Of course, a long-lasting roof starts with a professional installation. When you’re ready for a new roof in Northern Colorado, contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation or estimate.