Asphalt shingles are a popular choice for residential roofs due to their affordability, durability, and versatility. 
Types of Asphalt Shingles:
Three-Tab Asphalt Shingles: These are the most affordable option. They have a simple design and are thinner, with an organic-mat paper base. However, they may wear out more quickly than other types.
Fiberglass Asphalt Shingles: These shingles have a fiberglass base coated with asphalt and covered in granules. They offer better fire resistance and durability compared to three-tab shingles.
Architectural Style Asphalt Shingles: Also known as laminated or dimensional shingles, these are thicker and more visually appealing. They come in various shapes and sizes, mimicking the appearance of wood shakes or slate.
Class 4 Shingles: Class 4 shingles are indeed a type of asphalt shingles, but they have a special distinction. Let me explain:
Class 4 shingles are designed to withstand the extremes of wind, hail, and other severe weather conditions.
They are specifically engineered to provide advanced protection for your roof.
These shingles are a great choice if you live in an area prone to frequent storms involving hail, ice, snow, and strong winds.
Impact Resistance and Testing:
To receive a Class 4 rating, a roofing shingle must undergo rigorous testing.
One of the standardized industry tests used for evaluation is UL 2218 or FM 4473.
During testing, a 2-inch steel ball is dropped multiple times from a height of 20 feet onto the shingle.
If the shingle can withstand this impact without splitting or tearing, it earns the Class 4 rating.
To put this strength into perspective, consider that the same test on a 4-inch concrete paver could crack the paver in half.
Advantages of Class 4 Roofing Shingles:
Premium Quality: Class 4 shingles are a premium product, which means they may cost more than standard non-impact resistant shingles.
Reduced Repairs: By choosing Class 4 shingles, you can potentially reduce the cost of constant roof repairs and replacements caused by severe weather events.
Protection: They offer exceptional protection against hail and wind-blown debris.
Certified Performance: These shingles are tested, rated, and certified to withstand impact, making them a reliable choice for homeowners in storm-prone regions.
In summary, while Class 4 shingles are a type of asphalt shingles, their unique composition and impact-resistant design set them apart, making them an excellent investment for safeguarding your roof against the elements.
Durability and Maintenance:
Asphalt shingles are generally durable and can withstand various weather conditions.
Regular inspections are essential to identify any damage caused by hail, wind, or other factors.
Color and Texture:
Asphalt shingles come in a wide range of colors, allowing homeowners to choose the one that complements their home’s aesthetics.
Some architectural shingles mimic the texture of natural materials like wood or slate.
Installation:
Proper installation is crucial for the longevity of asphalt shingles.
A professional roofer should install them to ensure proper alignment and sealing.
Cost:
Asphalt shingles are cost-effective, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
Remember that regular maintenance and timely repairs are essential to prolong the life of your asphalt roof. If you’re considering asphalt shingles, consult with a roofing professional to determine the best type and color for your home. If you live in a neighborhood that has an HOA, you may be required to have asphalt shingles of a certain color.
Northwest Roofing installs asphalt shingles of higher quality. We don’t cut corners by using poor-quality materials. Homeowners should be aware of roofing contractors who offer incredibly lower prices because they buy their roofing materials from roofing boneyards. These types of places will sell cheap roofing materials that are short-cycled discontinued, seconds, and blemished shingles.
We prefer quality to quantity and attend to every job as if it were our own home. Please read what our customers are saying about us! We provide roofing, gutters, and other services. Take a look at some of the homes that we worked on in our Gallery.
Don Rutherford, Founder and Roofing Contractor for Northwest Roofing, located in Haslet, TX. Don has 25+ years of roofing experience. He maintains an A+ Business rating with the Tarrant County Better Business Bureau.
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Office: (817) 439-3065 or Mobile: (817) 614-1630
