Does Impact-Resistant Roofing Really Work? Is it Worth the Cost?
Are you tired of hail damaging your roof and filing insurance claims year after year? One of the best ways to protect your home against hail damage is to invest in impact-resistant roofing materials. Impact-resistant shingles are specifically designed to withstand high winds and hail damage. But how and why can they truly make a difference for your roof?
What Determines that a roofing product is impact-resistant?
Underwriters Laboratories (UL) developed the UL 2218 test to rate the strength of roofing shingles. This test determines if a roofing material is rated Class 1, 2, 3, or 4. Impact-resistant shingles have a Class 3 or Class 4 UL 2218 rating. The UL 2218 Class 4 impact rating test utilizes a steel ball 2 inches in diameter to simulate the impact of a 2″ hailstone. Likewise, the Class 3 impact rating test utilizes a 1.75″ steel ball to simulate the impact of a hailstone of the same size. During the test, steel balls are dropped onto the roofing material from heights ranging from 12 to 20 feet. The roofing material passes the test when it does not exhibit any signs of damage after being struck twice in the same spot.
What Roofing Materials are Impact-Resistant?
Most asphalt shingle manufacturers produce an impact-resistant product. In addition, tile, metal, and stone-coated steel can also be impact-resistant roofing. However, not all impact-resistant roofing products are the same, especially in the asphalt shingle selection. Malarkey Roofing Product’s Class 3 and Class 4 impact-resistant shingles have withstood major hailstorms, sometimes within weeks of installation. Other manufacturers are researching and beginning to use a similar product base, but the Malarkey product continues to out-perform others throughout each storm. Do extensive research on the products you choose to be sure you are getting not just an impact-resistant product, but one that will last.
How Can Impact-Resistant Roofing Help Me?
Investing in a sturdy roof can save you money over time. Some insurance companies offer premium discounts to customers who purchase impact-resistant shingles. You will definitely replace your roof fewer times in the future by investing in the right product now.
Can impact-resistant roofing truly make a difference for your roof? If you purchase the correct product, it can save you money and become one of the best investments you can make for your home.
According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), the average roof has a lifespan of 20 years. However, roofs in hail-prone areas such as Colorado must be replaced every 7-10 years.
Questions? Call us today at 719-487-7663 for a free roofing estimate or contact us online here: https://rampartroofing.com/contact-us-colorado-springs-roofing-compan/
