Choosing From The Four Classes Of Asphalt Roofing Shingles for a Home Addition

Are you undertaking an exterior remodel or building an addition? Don't overlook your new roof!

When it comes to roofing, asphalt roofing shingles are one of the top choices for most homeowners. Asphalt roofing shingles are versatile, add to your home's exterior aesthetic, and protect your home and your family from the elements. Several different shingle grades and four classes of impact resistance are available. Each type and class has its own set of features and benefits.

Learn about the different grades and classes of asphalt roofing shingles to make an informed decision.

First, the Types of Roofing Shingles

Before discussing the four classes of roofing shingles, let's examine the different types and grades of asphalt roofing shingles available. The two main types of asphalt shingles are 3-tab and architectural shingles.

3-Tab Shingles

3-tab shingles are the most popular type of shingles used in residential projects. 3-tab shingles are divided into three rectangular tabs, making them look uniform and consistent when installed. 3-tab shingles are lightweight, easy to install, come in various colors, are cost-effective, and provide excellent protection against the weather.

Architectural Shingles

Architectural shingles, also known as dimensional or laminate shingles, are a step up from 3-tab shingles and consist of multiple layers of material. This gives them a three-dimensional look that can mimic the look of wood or slate roofing. Architectural shingles are more durable than 3-tab shingles and can last 30 years or more.

Different Grades of Asphalt Roofing Shingles

3-tab and architectural shingles come in three different grades.

Standard Grade

These are also known as builder-grade or economy shingles. Standard-grade shingles typically consist of a single layer of material and have a flat appearance. They have a 15-20-year lifespan.

Mid-Grade Shingles

These are a step up from standard shingles and are made up of multiple layers of material for a three-dimensional appearance, similar to architectural shingles. Mid-grade shingles are more durable than standard grade and can last up to 30+ years.

High-Grade Shingles

Also known as luxury or designer shingles, these are the most expensive and durable options available. High-grade shingles have multiple layers of material, giving them a three-dimensional appearance, similar to architectural shingles, and can last up to 50+ years. Coming in various colors and styles, designer shingles are an excellent choice if you are looking for a long-lasting, visually appealing roofing system.

The Four Classes of Asphalt Roofing Shingles Impact Resistance

The class distinction in asphalt roofing shingles is their impact resistance. Class 1 is the least impact-resistant, and class 4 offers the most. Here is a quick breakdown of how impact resistance is determined.

All asphalt roofing shingle impact-resistant classes are determined by the shingle's ability to withstand the impact of a steel ball dropped from 20 feet. Scientists developed the UL2218 test based on the determination that the kinetic energy created with a 20-foot drop matches the impact of a hailstone in a thunderstorm.

Class 1 Shingles

A 1.25-inch steel ball is dropped twice from a distance of 12 feet.

Class 2 Shingles

A 1.5-inch steel ball is dropped twice from 15 feet high.

Class 3 Shingles

A 1.75-inch ball is dropped twice from 17 feet high.

Class 4 Shingles

A 2-inch steel ball is dropped twice from 20 feet high.

A two-inch steel ball from 20 feet creates a lot of force and is bigger than the golf ball-sized hail you might have heard about. Golf ball-sized hail is rare. Typically, homes are often well protected with class 3 shingles, which are a little more affordable.

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Your local building codes might also dictate what class of shingle you must use to be up to code. This is especially true in areas where damaging hail storms are a common weather event. You may be required to use class 4 shingles for the highest protection.

Why Install Impact-Resistant Asphalt Roofing Shingles?

Impact-resistant shingles are a good choice for your next roofing project for three main reasons.

If you live in an area with frequent hailstorms

Class 4 shingles cost more because they are more durable than cheaper shingles. However, if you live in an area that experiences frequent hailstorms or harsh winter weather, it is money well spent.

If your home is surrounded by trees

Hail isn't the only threat to your roof. Is your home surrounded by trees? A strong gust of wind or a winter ice storm can snap off tree limbs and send them colliding with your roof. Class 4 shingles might be a good choice. When a large limb falls onto your roof, no class of impact resistance will withstand that type of impact.

If extreme weather conditions are common in your location

Another risk is frequent thunderstorms and blizzards. Storms are becoming more frequent and intense, generating more and more flying debris that can collide with your roof. The extra protection of class 4 shingles will help protect your home during extreme weather events.

Speak with your roofing contractor or design-build professional about whether class 3 or 4 is the right choice for your particular situation. Class 4 shingles will lower the frequency of roof repair, extend the lifespan of your roof, and offer a longer manufacturer's warranty. Are you looking for the highest level of protection and longest lifespan for your roof? Class 4 impact-resistant shingles are a great choice.

Are you considering an addition, a remodeling project, or a new roof? Let us help you create a new look and design the perfect space to meet your family's needs! If you live in the Greater Madison area, call the experts at Degnan Design-Build-Remodel at (608) 846-5963. We can take your home to the next level