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As extreme weather events become more frequent, it is important that as a homeowner you protect your most valuable asset, your roof, with the utmost care. Deciding between impact-resistant shingles vs. regular shingles isn’t just about durability, it’s a strategic investment that influences your home’s protection and long-term maintenance costs.
With this blog post, we aim to explain the essential differences between these roofing options, empowering you to make a well-informed decision tailored to your needs and circumstances.
What Are Impact-Resistant Shingles?
Designed to withstand severe weather, such as hail and high winds, impact-resistant shingles offer enhanced durability and protection for homes. Made from strong materials like modified asphalt, rubber composites, or fiberglass, they feature added layers and reinforcements for extra resilience.
These shingles undergo rigorous testing, such as the UL 2218 standard, which measures their ability to endure impacts and assigns a rating from Class 1 to Class 4, with Class 4 shingles offering the highest level of resistance. While they provide excellent protection, potential insurance savings, and improve the value of any home, they come at a higher upfront cost and have fewer aesthetic options compared to standard shingles.
| PROS | CONS |
| Durable: Resists damage from hail, strong winds, and severe weather. | Higher Cost: Costs more upfront than regular shingles. |
| Long-Lasting: Lasts longer than standard shingles, reducing replacement needs. | Limited Styles: Fewer color and design options. |
| Insurance Savings: May lower premiums due to a reduced risk of damage. | Heavy: May need extra structural support. |
| Boosts Home Value: Can increase resale value. | Cracking Risk: Extreme impacts can still cause damage. |
What Are Regular Shingles?
A homeowner’s favorite option, regular shingles are a popular roofing material made primarily from asphalt, designed to shield homes from the elements. They are installed in overlapping rows to create a waterproof barrier.
Valued for their affordability, easy installation, and wide range of styles and colors, regular shingles offer homeowners plenty of customization options. Constructed with a fiberglass mat coated in asphalt and granules, they provide reliable protection under typical weather conditions. Still, they may be less durable against severe weather like hail or high winds.
While cost-effective, they tend to have a shorter lifespan compared to materials like metal or tile.
| PROS | CONS |
| Affordable: Budget-friendly compared to many other roofing materials. | Shorter Lifespan: Lasts 15 to 25 years, less than other options. |
| Variety: Available in many styles, colors, and textures for design flexibility. | Weather Damage: Prone to issues from hail, strong winds, or heavy snow. |
| Easy to Install: Lightweight and simple to install, suitable for DIY or professional installation | Algae Growth: May develop algae or moss in humid climates, affecting performance. |
| Low Maintenance: Requires minimal upkeep like occasional cleaning and inspections. | Poor Insulation: Offers less insulation, increasing energy costs in extreme climates. |
Key Differences Between Impact-Resistant Shingles vs. Regular Shingles
Now that you understand what impact-resistant shingles vs. regular ones are, it is time to learn about the difference between them so you can choose the right option for your home:
#1. Durability
Impact-resistant shingles are built to endure extreme weather like hail, high winds, and heavy rain. With Class 4 shingles a roof can withstand hailstones up to 2 inches in size. On the other hand, regular shingles are more vulnerable to cracking and breaking under similar stress, making them less reliable in harsh conditions.
#2. Upfront Cost
When comparing the cost of impact-resistant shingles vs. regular ones, impact-resistant shingles may cost 10 to 20% more than regular ones. However, their extended lifespan and lower maintenance needs balance out the initial expense. Regular shingles are cheaper upfront, but they often require more frequent repairs, which adds up over time.
#3. Design Options
When it comes to style, both types of shingles offer a variety of colors and designs. However, impact-resistant shingles may have fewer options because of the specific materials used. Regular shingles, made from more traditional materials like asphalt, tend to provide greater design flexibility.
#4. Installation Difficulty
Installing impact-resistant shingles requires more time and care due to their weight and specialized installation process. As a result, labor costs may be higher. Regular shingles, being lighter and easier to work with, often allow quicker and more affordable installation.
#5. Weather Performance
In addition to their impact resistance, these shingles offer superior protection against extreme temperatures and UV rays, preventing fading and deterioration over time. Regular shingles, while somewhat weather-resistant, may not hold up as well under temperature fluctuations and UV exposure.
#6. Warranty Length
Thanks to their high durability, impact-resistant shingles typically come with longer warranties, often lasting 50 years or more. These warranties often cover both material defects and impact resistance. Regular shingles usually come with shorter warranties, typically between 20 to 30 years, and may not cover damage from severe weather events.
#7. Maintenance Needs
With impact-resistant shingles, homeowners can expect less frequent maintenance, as their durability reduces the need for repairs. Regular shingles, however, may need more frequent inspections and repairs, especially in areas with harsh weather, adding to long-term maintenance costs.
#8. Energy Efficiency
Many impact-resistant shingles are designed with energy efficiency in mind, incorporating reflective surfaces that help keep homes cooler in hot months. Regular shingles may offer some energy efficiency, but they generally don’t provide the same cooling benefits as impact-resistant options.
#9. Fire Safety
In areas where fire risk is a concern, impact-resistant shingles often offer superior fire resistance. They are made from materials with higher fire ratings, providing extra protection. Regular shingles, especially those made from combustible materials, do not provide the same level of fire safety.
#10. Noise Reduction
Another benefit of impact-resistant shingles is their ability to reduce noise, such as the sound of rain or hail hitting the roof. Their denser construction helps insulate against sound. In comparison, regular shingles do not provide the same type of sound insulation.
#11. Installation Timeframe
Given their weight and need to be specially handled, installing impact-resistant shingles may take longer, potentially stretching out the timeline for a roofing project. Regular shingles, being lighter and easier to install, often allow for quicker project completion and less disruption.
#12. Impact on Resale Value
Homes with impact-resistant shingles may have a higher resale value. Buyers often see these as a wise investment that reduces future repair costs and insurance premiums. Regular shingles, while still effective, may not hold the same appeal in markets where severe weather is a concern.
Final Recommendation: Impact-Resistant Shingles vs. Regular
Impact-resistant shingles and regular shingles each offer distinct benefits. For homeowners in storm-prone areas, the extra cost of impact-resistant shingles is often worth it, providing enhanced durability and peace of mind. However, for those in milder climates, regular shingles offer a more budget-friendly and practical option.
To make the best choice, it’s important to consult with a roofing professional who can evaluate your home’s unique needs and guide you toward the right solution.
Not Sure Which Shingles to Choose? Call Rеnova Roofing & Construction!
Deciding between impact-resistant shingles and regular shingles isn’t just about what you like, it’s also about considering the benefits, costs, and what your home really needs. Knowing the differences will help you make a smart choice that protects your home and works with your budget.
For all of your roofing needs, Renova Roofing & Construction can be your reliable partner. We specialize in installing high-quality roofing services that provide great protection against hail, severe winds, and falling debris. Let our team of expert roofing professionals evaluate your roofing demands and suggest the best course of action for your residence or place of business. Give us a call today at (601) 647-3433.