Class 3 vs Class 4 Shingles: Which is Best For Colorado Homes?

Living in Colorado means preparing for hailstorms, and selecting the right roofing material is essential for protecting your home. This guide will help simplify your choice between Class 3 and Class 4 shingles so you can find the best fit for your home.

Understanding Shingle Ratings: What Do Classes Mean?

The roofing industry developed a standardized test in the mid-1990s to evaluate the impact resistance of their products. This test, known as the Underwriters Laboratory 2218 (UL 2218) or the steel ball test, assigns one of four ratings to a shingle, with Class 4 being the highest possible rating.

The testing involves dropping steel balls of different diameters from varying heights onto the shingles to simulate hail pellets. As you might guess, a higher class indicates better impact resistance. 

A roof achieves a Class 3 rating if the sample remains uncracked when struck twice in the same area by a steel ball with a diameter of 1.75 inches. For a roof to receive a Class 4 rating, it should show no damage when hit twice in the same spot by a steel ball measuring 2 inches in diameter.

(Image source: CertainTeed)

Breaking Down Class 3 and Class 4 Shingles

Here’s what Colorado homeowners need to know about the durability, hailstorm resilience, and cost differences between Class 3 and Class 4 shingles:

Durability 

• Class 4 Shingles: Engineered for severe weather, Class 4 shingles offer top-tier impact resistance, designed to withstand heavy external pressures and last longer.
• Class 3 Shingles: These shingles are durable but may be better suited for areas with milder weather. While reliable, they might not match the robustness of Class 4 shingles under extreme conditions.

Choosing durable materials is only part of the equation. Proper installation by licensed contractors ensures that both Class 3 and Class 4 shingles deliver on their promises of longevity and performance.

Hailstorm Resilience 

Nestled in the heart of "Hail Alley," Colorado faces some of the most frequent and intense hailstorms in North America. This makes the choice of shingles even more critical.

• Class 4 Shingles: With the highest impact resistance rating, Class 4 shingles are designed to absorb and dissipate the force of hail impacts, reducing the risk of damage.
• Class 3 Shingles: While Class 3 shingles offer a decent level of protection against hail, their resilience might not be on par with Class 4 shingles, especially during larger hailstorms.

After a storm, a professional inspection by a trusted roofing contractor can help document any damage and ensure your shingles are still intact.

Cost

• Class 4 Shingles: Their superior durability and lifespan come at a premium, though they may save on long-term costs by reducing the need for replacements. Many insurance providers even offer discounts for Class 4 shingles, providing further savings.
• Class 3 Shingles: These shingles are often more affordable upfront, making them a cost-effective choice in areas with milder weather. However, it’s essential to consider potential replacement costs and the absence of some insurance benefits.

“Class 4 shingles seem to be about $50.00 more per square than the Class 3 options, based on Xactimate pricing,” says Scott Ponzio, Owner of RTP Roofing Co.

Insurance Benefits

Class 4 shingles not only protect your home from damage but may also qualify for insurance discounts:

• Insurance Savings: Many carriers offer 10–25% premium discounts for Class 4 shingles, making them a wise choice for homeowners focused on long-term savings.
• Premium Products: Class 4 shingles are often listed on premium credit product lists used by contractors to verify state acceptance. Many Colorado counties even mandate the use of Class 4 shingles (Larimer County as an example), further solidifying their status as a preferred option for homeowners.

Navigating the insurance claim process can be a headache, but a licensed contractor can act as your advocate. From ensuring compliance to maximizing potential savings, they work with insurance providers to help you get the most value out of your upgrade to Class 4 shingles.

For more information on how to navigate roofing insurance and ensure your roof replacement is handled efficiently, check out our guide: Navigating Roofing Insurance for Roof Replacement: Essential Guide for Homeowners.

Filing Roof Claims and Upgrades

Homeowners often wonder whether upgrading to Class 4 shingles during a roof replacement is worth it, especially when filing an insurance claim:

• Although they may cost more than your deductible, the long-term benefits, including insurance savings and reduced repair needs, can make Class 4 shingles a more economical choice in the long run.

Making an Informed Decision

Choosing between Class 3 and Class 4 shingles comes down to your specific needs, budget, and Colorado’s weather. While Class 4 shingles may cost more upfront, their durability and potential insurance perks can make them a cost-effective choice for hail-prone areas. However, for milder climates, Class 3 shingles may provide adequate protection at a lower cost.

Timely inspections and open communication with your contractor can help you make the best decision for both your immediate needs and long-term goals.

Ready to protect your home with the right shingles? Contact a trusted Colorado roofing contractor today. Whether you’re interested in upgrading to Class 4 shingles or have questions about roof repairs, our members are here to help.