Searching for "what are Class 4 shingles?" Here is the quick answer:

A Class 4 Impact-Resistant Shingle is the highest durability rating available for residential roofing, certified to withstand the impact of a 2-inch steel ball dropped from 20 feet without cracking. Due to this extreme hail resistance, installing Class 4 shingles often qualifies homeowners for significant discounts on their insurance premiums.


The Full Guide: Why Your Next Roof Should Be "Hail Proof"

Living in the Midwest means your roof is constantly in a boxing match with Mother Nature. Between wind, snow, and our famous spring hail storms, standard asphalt shingles take a beating.

For years, the cycle was predictable: Hail storm hits, Roof gets damaged, File insurance claim, Repeat.

However, roofing technology has changed. Enter the Class 4 Impact-Resistant Shingle—a material designed to break that cycle. But with a higher upfront cost, are they actually worth it? Let’s look at the numbers.


1. The "Steel Ball" Test (How They Are Rated)

Standard shingles are tested for fire and wind, but Impact Resistant (IR) shingles undergo the rigorous UL 2218 Test.

  • The Test: Engineers drop a 2-inch solid steel ball from 20 feet high directly onto the shingle—twice in the same spot.

  • The Result: To earn the "Class 4" rating (the highest possible), the shingle must show zero evidence of tearing or cracking on the backside.

  • Translation: If a steel ball can't crack it, a chunk of ice doesn't stand a chance.


2. The Insurance Discount (The Instant ROI)

This is the biggest financial reason to upgrade. Because insurance companies know that Class 4 roofs rarely need to be replaced after a storm, they want you to have them.

  • Many major insurance carriers offer premium discounts ranging from 20% to 30% annually for homes with Class 4 roofs.

  • Note: Always check with your specific agent to confirm your eligibility.


3. Longevity vs. Replacement

A standard roof might last 20 years—if the weather is perfect. But in our area, "perfect" weather doesn't exist.

  • Standard shingles become brittle over time, meaning even small hail can knock off the protective granules, leading to leaks.

  • IR Shingles are modified with rubberized polymers (SBS), making them flexible. Instead of shattering when hit by hail or debris, they absorb the shock and bounce back.


The Verdict: Who is this for?

If you plan on moving in 2 years, a standard roof is fine.

However, if this is your "forever home," the math is simple: The upfront cost is higher, but the insurance savings over 10 years + avoiding the hassle of a future claim make Impact Resistant shingles the smartest financial choice you can make.


Want to See the Difference?

We have samples of standard shingles vs. Class 4 shingles. Call Stan’s Roofing & Siding at (708) 448-4100 to get a quote on upgrading your home’s armor.