Living in “Hail Alley” means your roof will likely face hail multiple times during its lifespan. Class 4 impact resistant shingles offer superior protection and significant financial benefits for Denver homeowners.

What Makes Class 4 Different

Class 4 is the highest impact resistance rating under UL 2218 testing. During certification:

  • A 2-inch steel ball is dropped from 20 feet
  • The shingle is struck twice in the same spot
  • Class 4 shingles show no cracking or splitting

The Technology

Class 4 shingles use SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene) polymer-modified asphalt. This “rubberized” formula makes the shingle:

  • More flexible under impact
  • Better able to return to original shape
  • More resistant to cracking in cold temperatures
  • More durable against UV degradation
  • Owens Corning Duration FLEX
  • Malarkey Vista
  • GAF Timberline AS II
  • CertainTeed Presidential Shake IR

The Insurance Discount Advantage

The biggest financial benefit of Class 4 shingles: premium discounts of 20-28% from many insurers.

Which Insurers Offer Discounts

  • State Farm: Up to 28% discount
  • USAA: Significant discounts available
  • Farmers: Class 4 recognition
  • Allstate: Impact resistant discounts
  • American Family: Premium credits

The Math

Let’s calculate the return on investment:

Example Scenario:

  • Class 4 upgrade cost: $1,200 above standard shingles
  • Annual insurance savings: $600
  • Payback period: 2 years

After year two, you’re saving $600/year while enjoying superior hail protection. Over a 25-year roof lifespan, that’s $13,800 in savings after the initial investment.

Beyond Insurance: Durability Benefits

Longer Lifespan

Impact resistant shingles typically last longer because:

  • Better UV resistance from the SBS modifier
  • Less granule loss from routine wear
  • Structural integrity maintained after minor impacts

Reduced Claim Frequency

With Class 4 protection, you’re less likely to file hail claims, which:

  • Keeps your CLUE record clean
  • Prevents premium increases from claims history
  • Reduces the hassle of restoration projects

Better Resale Value

Homebuyers in Colorado understand hail risk. A Class 4 roof is a selling point that demonstrates:

  • Quality investment in the home
  • Lower future maintenance costs
  • Transferable insurance benefits (in some cases)

When Class 4 Makes Sense

Consider Class 4 if:

  • You’re already replacing your roof (insurance claim or age)
  • Your current insurance offers meaningful discounts
  • You plan to stay in your home 3+ years
  • You want to reduce future claim likelihood

Cost Considerations

Class 4 premium over standard shingles:

  • Materials: $500-$1,500 more (depending on roof size)
  • Installation: Same labor cost
  • Net cost after insurance savings: Often negative within 2-3 years

How to Get Class 4 Through Insurance

If your roof is being replaced due to hail damage, Class 4 may be within reach:

  1. Get insurance approval for standard replacement
  2. Discuss upgrade options with your contractor
  3. Pay the differential (often manageable with insurance savings)
  4. Notify your insurance company of the upgrade for discount

Some contractors can use margin in the claim to offer Class 4 at reduced out-of-pocket cost.

Conclusion

For Denver homeowners, Class 4 shingles represent one of the best home improvement investments available. The combination of premium discounts, superior protection, and peace of mind makes the upgrade math compelling.

Contact us to discuss Class 4 options for your roof replacement.