When it comes to protecting your Colorado Springs home from the elements, choosing the right roofing material is key. With the high risk of hail storms, it is important to consider impact resistance as a top priority when selecting shingles. Understanding the different class impact ratings and the pros and cons of each type of shingle will help you make the right choice for your home.
Understanding Shingles Class Impact Rating
Shingles are rated based on their ability to withstand impact from hail and other debris. The impact resistance of shingles is measured in classes.
- Class 4 shingles offer the highest level of protection. Class 4 shingles can withstand steel balls that are 50.8 mm or 2 inches in diameter, making them ideal for homes in areas with a high risk of getting hit by a hail storm each year and other types of impact damage.
- Class 3 shingles, which can withstand steel balls that are 44 mm or 1.75 inches in diameter, offer good protection for homes in areas with a high risk of damage.
- Class 2 shingles, which can withstand steel balls that are 38.1 mm or 1.5 inches in diameter, offer a lower level of protection and are suitable for homes in areas with moderate risk of damage.
- Class 1 shingles, which can withstand steel balls that are 31.8 mm or 1.25 inches in diameter, offer the lowest level of protection and are typically only recommended for homes in areas with low risk of damage.
It is important to know the different class impact ratings in order to make an educated decision about the best roofing material for your home. Knowing the level of protection offered by each type of shingle will help you determine which one is best suited for your Colorado Springs home and will give you peace of mind knowing that it can withstand hail storms and other types of impact damage, and not all impact resistant or SBS shingles are made equal, so knowing what class you need for your home is important when talking to your roofing contractor.
Now that you have an understanding of the shingle class impact ratings, let’s take a closer look at two popular options for impact-resistant roofing: standard impact-resistant shingles and SBS shingles.
What are Standard Impact-Resistant Shingles?
Standard impact-resistant shingles (IR Shingles) are a type of roofing material designed to withstand damage from impacts such as hail. They are typically made from traditional asphalt shingles with added materials or treatments to enhance their durability and impact resistance. For example, some standard impact-resistant shingles may have a laminated construction, a specialized coating, or a modified type of surface granules that helps to absorb impact and prevent damage.
Some of the pros of using standard impact-resistant shingles include
- Durability: Standard impact-resistant shingles are designed to offer enhanced protection against hail damage and other impacts. These shingles are made with a tougher, more durable material than your regular asphalt shingles.
- Affordability: While standard impact-resistant shingles may cost slightly more upfront compared to most standard roofing shingles, they are more budget-friendly than SBS Shingles.
- Wide range of design options: One of the benefits of choosing standard impact-resistant shingles for your Colorado Springs home is the wide range of design options available. These shingles come in a variety of colors, styles, and patterns, making it easy to find a style that complements your home's aesthetic.
What are SBS Shingles?
SBS (Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene) shingles are a type of roofing material designed for exceptional impact resistance. Made from a combination of asphalt, rubber-like polymers, and fiberglass, these shingles offer improved flexibility and durability to help protect your home from hail damage.
Some of the pros of SBS shingles include
- Durability: SBS shingles are highly flexible and offer superior protection against hail and other types of impact damage. These shingles can withstand impacts up to Class 4, making them an excellent choice for Colorado Springs homes that are at risk of getting hit by a hail storm each year.
- Long Lifespan: SBS shingles are designed to last longer than most standard roofing materials, due to their superior impact resistance and flexible construction. This means that homeowners in Colorado Springs can enjoy a longer-lasting roof with less need for repairs or replacements over time.
- Crack resistant: SBS shingles are more resistant to cracking from impacts or extreme temperatures compared to standard asphalt shingles, making them an ideal choice for Colorado Springs homes that need extra protection in the colder months.
Why not choose SBS over Standard IR Shingles?
SBS shingles can be more expensive than standard impact-resistant shingles and may not offer as wide of a range of design options as standard IR Shingles. Additionally, SBS shingles can be heavier than some standard impact-resistant shingles, so you will need to check with your Colorado Springs roofer to make sure that your home’s structure is able to handle the extra weight.
No Hail-Proof or Impact-Proof Shingles, but Choosing a Tougher Shingle Saves Money in the Long Run
While there are no roofing materials that are completely hail-proof or impact-proof, choosing a tougher shingle, such as a standard impact-resistant or SBS shingle, can save homeowners money in the long run.
Hail and wind storms can cause a lot of damage and other impacts that cause costly repairs or even the replacement of a roof, so it is important to choose a shingle that offers enhanced protection. While standard impact-resistant shingles and SBS shingles are not 100% hail-proof or impact-proof, they are designed to offer a higher level of protection than traditional shingles, making them a wise investment for homeowners in areas with a high risk of hail damage and other impacts.
Additionally, most impact-resistant shingles and SBS shingles are backed by a warranty that covers damage caused by hail and other impacts. This can provide added peace of mind for homeowners and protect them from paying for costly repairs out of pocket.
Expert Tip: Be Wary of Companies Promising 100% Impact-Resistant Shingles
Homeowners in Colorado Springs should be vigilant, as some advertisements may try offering "hail-proof" or 100% impact-resistant shingles but beware! No shingle is 100% hail-proof or impact-resistant, so be sure to do your research and make sure you are choosing the right roofing contractor, so that you don't get taken advantage of!
Why Choose either option Impact Resistant Shingle?
The choice between standard impact-resistant shingles and SBS shingles will depend on your individual needs and budget. If you are looking for a cost-effective solution with a wide range of design options, standard impact-resistant shingles may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you want the best protection against hail and other types of impact damage, and a longer-term solution SBS shingles may be the way to go.
How does either of these impact my insurance?
Most Colorado Springs insurance companies provide discounts for impact-resistant roofing materials, so choosing a shingle with a high level of impact resistance can help lower your insurance premiums. Additionally, you may not have to make as many claims for hail damage if you have a roof that is designed to offer superior protection against impacts. It's best to check with your insurance company to see what discounts they offer and if they recommend a specific type of impact-resistant shingle.
Making the right choice for your Colorado Springs roof is essential to protect your home from hail damage and other elements. Understanding the different class impact ratings, the pros, and cons of standard impact-resistant shingles and SBS shingles, and the benefits of choosing a shingle with a high level of impact resistance can help you make an informed decision.
If you are looking for expert advice and quality roofing services in Colorado Springs, reach out to Homestead Roofing. Our team of experienced roofing professionals can help you choose the right shingle for your home, and handle all of your roofing needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get started on protecting your home from the elements.
