Are Class 4 Impact-Resistant Shingles Helpful for Minnesota Homeonwers?

Every summer we get calls from homeowners requesting we take a look at roof conditions after a hailstorm sweeps through Minneapolis-St. Paul. When we get on the ladders and assess the condition, it’s immediately clear whether the homeowner has standard shingles or a Class 4 shingle. We’ve observed significantly less damage on Class 4 shingles (which equates to less repair costs for the homeowner).

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Hailstorms pose a significant threat to homes in Minneapolis suburbs, where severe weather events are common in the summer (usually between June and August). Large hailstones can cause substantial damage to roofs, leading to repairs and even roof replacements. Class 4 impact-resistant shingles offer a solution to this problem, but what makes them different from standard shingles? And are they helpful for Minnesota homeowners where our weather is so drastic?

Here are some things you need to know:

Shingles are Your Roof’s First Line of Defense  

Your roof isn’t just there to look good—it’s a shield, protecting your home from rain, wind, and whatever else nature dishes out. Shingles are the outer armor, taking the brunt of the beating so your home stays safe and dry. If you pick the wrong shingles, you’re looking at leaks, repairs, or worse. That’s where impact-resistant shingles come in.

A unique element of living in Minnesota is the sweltering summers combined with freezing winters. All materials used to manufacture and install shinlges make a difference for how many seasons a roof will last. Class 4 shingles from high-quality manufacturers will not just include hail protection, but will also be wind resistant and use better bonding (used to nail the shingle to the roof).

What Sets Class 4 Shingles Apart?  

Class 4 impact-resistant shingles are designed to withstand severe weather conditions. These shingles utilize enhanced materials that absorb impact, significantly reducing the risk of cracking or breaking. This durability provides homeowners with increased protection against costly roof damage and the need for frequent repairs.

The Class 4 rating is the highest level of impact resistance. This is achieved through rigorous testing according to the UL 2218 standard. The test involves dropping a 2-inch steel ball from a height of 20 feet onto the shingle, twice in the same location. This simulates the impact of large hailstones. To achieve a Class 4 rating, the shingle must remain intact, without cracks or significant damage, after both impacts. This certification provides homeowners with confidence in the shingle’s ability to withstand extreme weather events.

Why It Matters to You  

Hailstorms pose a significant threat to roofing systems. Even moderate hailstones can cause damage to standard shingles, leading to dents, cracks, and ultimately, leaks. In the United States, hail damage results in substantial insurance claims annually ($20 billion in damage in 2022!). Class 4 impact-resistant shingles offer a way to protect against these weather events:

• Durability: This should be obvious, but Class 4 shingles are engineered to withstand impacts that would severely damage conventional shingles, extending the lifespan of your roof.
• Cost Savings: By minimizing the risk of hail damage, these shingles reduce the need for frequent repairs and replacements, resulting in long-term financial savings.
• Reduced Insurance Premiums: Many insurance providers offer reduced premiums for homes equipped with Class 4 shingles, reflecting the decreased risk of hail-related claims.

We’ve had homeowners in Maple Grove, Shoreview, Eden Prairie, etc. install Class 4 shingles on their homes, and the rooftops have faired much better compared to the standard shingle twins.

Brands That Offer Class 4 Shingles

As roofing professionals, we have two brands we recommend to our clients when they are looking for Class 4 protection: Atlas and Owens Corning.

Atlas Pinnacle Impact

Atlas produces a line of shingles called “Pinnacle Impact” that offer a high performance, Class 4 rating. They manufacture these shingles with a polymer-modified asphalt formulation, which enables them to meet the rigorous requirements of the UL 2218 Class 4 impact resistance standard.

In addition to their impact resistance, they use 3M™ Scotchgard™ Protector to resist algae growth in the summer and will prevent black streaks. Atlas shingles come with a lifetime limited warranty and are engineered to withstand wind speeds up to 130 mph.

Owens Corning Duration STORM & FLEX

Owens Corning produces a line of shingles called “TruDefinition® Duration STORM® and FLEX” as their Class 4 rated shingles. They use their proprietary WeatherGuard® Technology, which enables them to meet the UL2218 Class 4 requirements.

Just like Atlas, they also use their own algae protection called StreakGuard™. Owens Corning shingles also utilize SureNail® Technology and are engineered to withstand high wind speeds.

Are They Worth the Price?  

Class 4 shingles are more expensive than standard shingles, usually between 10-40% higher cost (depending on brand, features, etc.) The reason why many homeowners end up investing is so they don’t have to replace or repair a roof many times, but their roof can handle summer storms. The investment pays off in the long run, but you’ll have to budget for these shingles.

Since Class 4 shingles can also give you an insurance reduction, this should be factored into your pricing.

Wrapping Up

Class 4 impact-resistant shingles have a higher upfront cost but will help prevent you from having to do frequent repairs and re-roofs on your home. They significantly reduce the risk of damage from hail, wind, and other weather conditions (especially up here in Minneapolis where the weather has significant seasonal fluctuations). We always recommend these shingles, but it is up to you as the homeowner to decide what is right for you!