Impact-Resistant Shingles: Are They Worth the Investment?
Estimated Reading Time : 6 Min.
The simple answer is, yes, impact-resistant roof shingles are generally worth the investment. However, they might not be if your roof only faces mild weather and moderate temperatures.
At BRH Enterprises LLC, we are your local roofing professionals in Mayville, WI, and the surrounding areas. We understand that choosing the right roofing material can be confusing, which is why we’re here with this guide to help you understand everything about impact-resistant shingles.
If you are concerned about your roof’s health or want to discuss your project with professionals, feel free to give us a call at (920) 249-4228.
What Are Impact-Resistant Shingles?
Impact-resistant shingles are very durable roof materials designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, particularly hailstorms.
Unlike normal shingles, impact-resistant roof shingles are constructed with more durable materials that can better resist damage from hail, wind-blown debris, and other sudden impacts.
Normal shingles may crack or break during a severe hailstorm, but impact-resistant shingles are made specifically to resist this pressure. These shingles are made from special polymers and reinforced asphalt, and they undergo specific tests that confirm their durability.
What Are The Different Types Of Impact-Resistant Shingle Materials?
Impact-resistant shingles primarily come in two main material types: polymer-based and styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) based shingles.
👉 Polymer-based shingles incorporate flexible polymer meshes within the asphalt, creating a more resilient roofing material.
👉 SBS-based shingles use a rubbery polymer that provides exceptional flexibility, allowing the shingle to absorb impacts effectively without cracking.
What Are The Pros Of Impact-Resistant Shingles?
Impact-resistant shingles are among the most popular roofing materials, and there are some good reasons for their popularity. Here, we will share some of the pros of impact-resistant roof shingles.
#1 They Protect Your Roof Well In Rough Weather
Impact-resistant shingles provide really nice protection against harsh weather conditions. Most can withstand wind speeds of up to 130 miles per hour, which is equal to a Category 4 hurricane.
This means your home is better protected during extreme weather events, reducing the risk of water intrusion and structural damage. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that your roof can handle most environmental challenges with remarkable resilience.
#2 You May Get Insurance Savings
Many insurance companies recognize the value of impact-resistant shingles and provide discounts to homeowners who install them.
Depending on your region and insurance provider, you could save between 5% to 35% on your annual home insurance premium. These savings can potentially offset the higher initial cost of impact-resistant shingles, making them a financially smart long-term investment for your home.
#3 Longer Roof Lifespan
Because impact-resistant shingles are more durable, they generally last longer than traditional roofing materials. The advanced construction means fewer repairs and a reduced likelihood of premature roof replacement.
While normal shingles might need replacement every 15 to 20 years, impact-resistant options can last for 30 to 50 years. So you don’t have to be concerned about replacing your roof as often.
#4 Increased Home Value
Investing in impact-resistant shingles can also increase your home’s market value. Buyers appreciate homes that have durable roofing systems that provide better protection against environmental damage.
This means when it’s time to sell, these shingles will be counted as a valuable addition to your home.
What Are The Cons Of Impact-Resistant Shingles?
Now that you understand the pros, it is also important to know the challenges of impact-resistant shingles.
#1 Higher Initial Investment
The most significant drawback of impact-resistant shingles is their higher upfront cost. These advanced roofing materials can be 25% to 100% more expensive than standard asphalt shingles.
While the long-term benefits often justify the initial expense, the immediate financial investment might be challenging for some homeowners with budget constraints.
#2 Limited Effectiveness in Mild Climate Zones
If you live in an area with minimal hail or severe weather events, the benefits of impact-resistant shingles might not fully justify their additional cost or be worth your investment.
Homeowners in regions with mild, consistent weather might find traditional shingles more economically sensible. It’s very important to consider your specific geographical location and local weather patterns when choosing a roofing material.
Who Tests Impact-Resistant Roof Shingles?
When it comes to testing how tough a roof is against hail damage, there are three main organizations that do the hard work: Underwriters Laboratories (UL), FM Approvals, and the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IIBHS).
👉 In the UL test, they literally drop metal balls of different sizes onto roof samples to see what it takes to make the roof crack or break.
👉 FM takes a slightly different approach and shoots balls of ice at the roofing material to mimic hail.
👉 The IIBHS goes even further by creating their own hailstones in a lab to make the test as real-world as possible.
What these tests look for is pretty straightforward: Can the roof handle get hit without falling apart? They check for things like whether pieces of the roof break off or if there are tears in the shingles.
Each test gives the roof shingles a rating, with the IIBHS being particularly detailed in how they score performance.
How Do Hailstones Damage Your Roof?
To truly appreciate impact-resistant shingles, homeowners should understand the destructive nature of hail.
When hailstones fall, they create multiple points of stress on roofing materials, working like tiny hammers that gradually compromise a roof’s integrity.
Each hailstone has the potential to create microscopic tears, crack protective layers, and dislodge critical surface materials that keep your home waterproof.
Just as a small rock can easily puncture or tear paper, hailstones create damage that might be invisible to an untrained eye but progressively weakens your roof’s protective capabilities.
Impact-resistant shingles, in contrast, are engineered with advanced materials that can flex and absorb these impacts without suffering permanent damage, acting like a protective shield for your home.
How Much Does It Cost To Install Impact-Resistant Roof Shingles?
Impact-resistant roof shingles can cost you anywhere between $7 to $14 per square foot. You can potentially save significantly through insurance discounts, reduced repair costs, and extended lifespan of these roofing shingles.
While normal shingles generally last 15 to 20 years, impact-resistant shingles can protect your home for 30 to 50 years. Additionally, these advanced shingles can improve home energy efficiency and potentially increase property value.
You can make more informed and financially sound roofing decisions by viewing impact-resistant shingles as a long-term investment rather than an immediate expense.
How To Maintain The Lifespan Of Impact-Resistant Roof Shingles
Maintaining your impact-resistant roof requires a proactive and thoughtful approach. We recommend you schedule professional inspections at least twice annually, with additional assessments after severe weather events. These inspections can help you spot signs of wear or damage that may go unnoticed otherwise.
Professional maintenance is important for ensuring warranty compliance, helps extend the roof’s overall lifespan, and provides peace of mind.
While these shingles are durable, they are not completely indestructible. Regular professional care can help prevent minor damage from developing into major, expensive problems.
Should You Get An Impact-Resistant Roof For Your Home?
Impact-resistant roofs are worth considering if you live in an area prone to severe weather like frequent hailstorms or high winds. Key factors to weigh include:
👉 Local Weather Patterns: If you’re in storm-heavy regions like Wisconsin, these roofs provide substantial protection against environmental damage.
👉 Long-Term Home Plans: If you’re planning to stay in your current home for several years, investing in impact-resistant shingles is financially sensible by reducing the risk of early roof failure.
👉 Storm Season Preparedness: These roofs can provide you extra peace of mind during unpredictable weather, by saving you money on future repairs and reducing stress during severe storms.
To make a final decision, consider consulting a local roofing professional who understands your specific regional weather challenges. They can provide you with more personalized advice for your home’s needs.
BONUS
Here Are Some Popular Impact-Resistant Roof Shingles
👉 CertainTeed Landmark® ClimateFlex®: This impact-resistant shingle is a dual-layered designer shingle. These shingles have a wood shake aesthetic but are actually made from advanced polymer-modified asphalt.
👉 GAF Timberline® AS II: This impact-resistant roof shingle from GAF features SBS-modified asphalt which gives them a really nice flexibility.
👉 CertainTeed Belmont® IR: This luxury shingle has the appearance of quarried stone with a Class 4 impact resistance.
👉 GAF Grand Sequoia® AS: These shingles are artisan-crafted and come with impact-resistant technology.
By understanding these important details, you can make an informed decision about whether impact-resistant shingles are the right choice for your home.
Call BRH Enterprises LLC For Professional Roofing Services In Wisconsin
BRH Enterprises LLC is your local roofing company in Wisconsin. We are committed to providing professional roofing services in Mayville, and the surrounding areas in Wisconsin. We understand that choosing the right material for your roofs is important for both your home’s integrity and your budget.
We specialize in impact-resistant and energy-efficient roofing services that protect your investment and improve your home’s value. Our skilled roofers only use quality materials and advanced techniques to ensure long-lasting results.
Our team is here to assist you in choosing the right roofing material for your home and has the right experience to serve all your roofing needs. From repairs to full roof replacement, we can do it all. To get a free estimate or to schedule a free roof inspection, call us today at (920) 249-4228.