Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against harsh weather. When storms roll through Logan with hail, high winds, or flying debris, your roof takes the hit. Regular asphalt shingles offer decent protection, but impact resistant shingles do a much better job.
If you live in a place like Logan, where wild weather can strike any time of year, these shingles can be a real game-changer. In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of impact resistant shingles, look at different shingle types, and explain why more Utah homeowners are choosing them as one of their top roofing material options.
What Are Impact Resistant Shingles?
Impact resistant shingles are some of the toughest shingles you can get. They’re asphalt shingles made to handle things like hail and flying debris. They’re tested using a system created by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), where steel balls are dropped onto the shingles to see how much they can take.
Here’s how they’re rated:
- Class 1: Handles a 1.25″ steel ball from 12 feet
- Class 2: Handles a 1.50″ ball from 15 feet
- Class 3: Handles a 1.75″ ball from 17 feet
- Class 4: Handles a 2.00″ ball from 20 feet
Class 4 is the toughest and the best. These shingles won’t crack or tear easily, making them one of the strongest roofing material options you can choose.
Top Benefits of Impact Resistant Shingles
Making a change to your roof is a big decision. But once you know the impact resistant shingle advantages, it’s easy to understand why so many Logan homeowners are making the switch.
1. Better Protection from Hail and Debris
These shingles are built to take a beating. Whether it’s hail the size of golf balls or branches getting tossed around in a storm, impact resistant shingles make sure your roof can stand up against harsh weather. They help to prevent leaking or breaking.
2. Longer Roof Life
Typical shingles last about 20 to 30 years. Class 4 impact resistant shingles can last up to 50 years. They’re made from special rubber-like materials like SBS that give them more flexibility and strength, great news for homeowners who want fewer replacements.
3. Insurance Discounts
Because of how strong these shingles are, many insurance companies offer discounts to homeowners who install them. In some areas, savings can be 5% to 35% off your premium. Check with your provider to see if your home qualifies.
4. Better Energy Efficiency
Some impact resistant shingles are designed to reflect sunlight. This keeps your home cooler in the summer, which means your air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard, and that can lower your energy bills.
5. Stronger Against Wind
These shingles don’t just fight hail, they’re also great in high winds. Many are rated to handle wind speeds of up to 130 mph, which is about the strength of a Category 3 hurricane. That’s a big plus if you live in a windy place like Logan.
6. Fewer Repairs Over Time
Because they’re stronger, impact resistant shingles don’t get damaged as easily. That means fewer leaks, fewer replacements, and fewer trips to the roof for repairs. Over time, that saves you both money and stress.
Shingle Types: Standard vs. Impact Resistant
Let’s compare the two main shingle types so you can see the difference for yourself.
Standard Asphalt Shingles
- Lifespan: 20–30 years
- Hail Resistance: Low to moderate
- Wind Resistance: 60–110 mph
- Insurance Savings: Unlikely
- Upfront Cost: Lower
- Repair Frequency: More frequent
Impact Resistant Shingles (Class 4)
- Lifespan: 30–50 years
- Hail Resistance: High
- Wind Resistance: Up to 130 mph
- Insurance Savings: Likely (check your policy)
- Upfront Cost: Higher
- Repair Frequency: Less frequent
While impact resistant shingles might cost a bit more at the start, they often pay off in the long run through fewer repairs and longer life.
What Do Impact Resistant Shingles Look Like?
Don’t worry, you won’t have to give up style to get a tough roof. Today’s impact-resistant shingles come in lots of great designs and colors. Some even look like wood shakes or slate.
Popular color options include:
- Weathered Wood
- Charcoal Black
- Driftwood
- Rustic Slate
They give you the strong protection you need without sacrificing curb appeal.
Are Impact-Resistant Shingles Worth It?
Absolutely. If you’re thinking about the future of your home, these shingles offer real value. You’ll get:
- Less damage after big storms
- A chance at lower insurance premiums
- A roof that lasts longer
- A better return on your investment
For Logan homeowners, where storms and changing seasons are just part of life, these shingles make smart, long-term sense.
Ready to Upgrade to Impact Resistant Shingles?
Your roof keeps your family safe and your home dry, so give it the strength it deserves. Impact resistant shingles offer some of the best protection available, especially in unpredictable climates like Utah’s.
If you’re looking to make a smart upgrade, Homer Roofing is ready to help. We’ll walk you through your options, explain what works best for your home, and get your roof ready for anything the weather throws at it.
Schedule your free inspection today and find out how impact resistant shingles can give your home the protection it needs.
