If you live in Texas, you know hailstorms aren’t just common — they’re destructive. That’s why more homeowners are asking about impact-resistant shingles, especially Class 3 and Class 4 ratings. But what do those ratings really mean?
Let’s break it down so you can make the right decision when it’s time to replace your roof.
Impact resistance for roofing materials is measured by UL 2218, a standardized test by Underwriters Laboratories. It simulates hail strikes by dropping steel balls from specific heights onto the shingle.
Here’s how the rating works:
So when we say a shingle is Class 3 impact-resistant, that means it was able to withstand a 1.75-inch steel ball dropped from 17 feet without cracking, tearing, or showing significant damage.
Class 3 shingles are built with enhanced reinforcement layers, stronger asphalt blends, and improved adhesion. They’re designed to absorb and disperse impact energy — especially from medium-size hail or flying debris.
Some products also use modified asphalt with rubber-like polymers (SBS) to increase flexibility and resistance to cracking.
For many Texas homes, Class 3 is the sweet spot — balancing durability with value.
Several major manufacturers produce shingles that meet Class 3 ratings. At Whaley Construction Group, we often recommend:
Each offers solid impact protection, wind resistance, and manufacturer warranties that fit Texas homes and budgets.
If you’re replacing your roof and want more protection without going all the way to Class 4 pricing, a Class 3 impact-resistant shingle is a smart choice. It’s a significant upgrade from standard shingles — and in hail-prone regions, it could be the difference between needing a repair and needing a new roof.
At Whaley Construction Group, we install roofing systems built for Texas weather. If you want to explore Class 3 or Class 4 shingle options, we’ll inspect your roof and help you choose the system that fits your needs best.
If you live in Texas, you know hailstorms aren’t just common — they’re destructive. That’s why more homeowners are asking about impact-resistant shingles, especially Class 3 and Class 4 ratings. But what do those ratings really mean?
Let’s break it down so you can make the right decision when it’s time to replace your roof.
Impact resistance for roofing materials is measured by UL 2218, a standardized test by Underwriters Laboratories. It simulates hail strikes by dropping steel balls from specific heights onto the shingle.
Here’s how the rating works:
So when we say a shingle is Class 3 impact-resistant, that means it was able to withstand a 1.75-inch steel ball dropped from 17 feet without cracking, tearing, or showing significant damage.
Class 3 shingles are built with enhanced reinforcement layers, stronger asphalt blends, and improved adhesion. They’re designed to absorb and disperse impact energy — especially from medium-size hail or flying debris.
Some products also use modified asphalt with rubber-like polymers (SBS) to increase flexibility and resistance to cracking.
For many Texas homes, Class 3 is the sweet spot — balancing durability with value.
Several major manufacturers produce shingles that meet Class 3 ratings. At Whaley Construction Group, we often recommend:
Each offers solid impact protection, wind resistance, and manufacturer warranties that fit Texas homes and budgets.
If you’re replacing your roof and want more protection without going all the way to Class 4 pricing, a Class 3 impact-resistant shingle is a smart choice. It’s a significant upgrade from standard shingles — and in hail-prone regions, it could be the difference between needing a repair and needing a new roof.
At Whaley Construction Group, we install roofing systems built for Texas weather. If you want to explore Class 3 or Class 4 shingle options, we’ll inspect your roof and help you choose the system that fits your needs best.
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