The Value of Impact Resistant Shingles
Colorado has a storm season during which wind, rain, and hail are culprits for significant roof damage. Traditional asphalt shingles, which are the most popular choice among American homeowners, are designed to withstand severe weather conditions to a certain degree.
But many Coloradans may find that they are still dealing with expensive roof repairs when hail season hits.
Luckily, recent advancements have improved the range of shingles available to include a class of impact-resistant shingles. The enhanced durability of these products can save the homeowner the inconvenience and cost of replacing shingles after a bad storm.
What Are Impact-Resistant Shingles?
Impact-resistant shingles are designed to withstand hailstones falling at high speeds. They are classified according to their performance in a specific durability test called the UL2218 method. Shingles are subjected to four sizes of steel ball, measuring between 1 ½” to 2” across, which are then dropped from heights between 12 and 20 feet.
Class 4 shingles exhibit the highest level of impact resistance. In order to receive this rating, a shingle must repeatedly withstand impact from a 2” steel ball dropped from a height of 20 feet.
How are Impact-Resistant Shingles Made?
There are two primary ways of manufacturing impact resistant shingles:
1. Polymer Mesh
A polymer-based mesh is embedded into a traditional asphalt shingle to help prevent it from cracking during a hailstorm or from other sources of impact.
2. Rubberizing Polymers
Rubber-like polymers, like Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene (SBS), are incorporated into the asphalt materials. When SBS is blended with asphalt, a rubberizing effect is produced, which enhances shingle flexibility and durability during a storm.
When Should You Choose Impact-Resistant Shingles?
Impact-resistant shingles are a premium product, which means the up-front cost can be higher than traditional asphalt shingles. However, this higher initial cost may be well worth it if you live in an area that is prone to hail.
Colorado is among the states with the highest prevalence of hailstorms in the United States, along with Kansas, Nebraska, and Wyoming. In 2020, the state saw record hailstorms with millions of dollars claimed in insurance.
Investing in impact-resistant shingles should definitely be a consideration if you want to avoid the cost and inconvenience of a damaged roof.
J&K Roofing: a Colorado Company
J&K Roofing, one of the best roofing Companies has roofed over 50,000 stru0ctures in Colorado in our 35+ years in business. We know the weather, and we know how to shield against it. Our roofers are certified in every material we use, including our premium asphalt products. If you are in the Denver Metro, Front Range, Northern Colorado, and Colorado Springs areas, give us a call.