If you live in Wisconsin, you already know that our weather can get intense quite fast. One day it’s calm, the next you see hail the size of golf balls!. These unpredictable conditions can do real damage to your home, especially your roof. In order to protect it, you can use specially-made roofing products, such as Class 4 shingles.
In this blog post, we’ll explain all about these shingles, including how they’re tested, why they’re worth the investment, and how they can protect your home from Wisconsin’s harsh weather.
What Are Class 4 Shingles?
Class 4 shingles are a top-rated shingles option made with polymer-modified asphalt that qualifies for superb impact resistance. These are the shingles that are built to take a beating — literally.
These shingles go through a standardized test called UL 2218. In this test, a two-inch steel ball is dropped twice from 20 feet onto the same spot on a shingle. If it doesn’t crack, split, or show damage on the back, it earns the Class 4 rating. This is the highest rating available today and exceeds Class 3 impact-rated shingles.
That’s no small feat. Most standard shingles would dent, break, or fail under that kind of impact.
What Makes Class 4 Shingles Different?
A lot of homeowners hear “asphalt shingles” and think of basic 3-tab shingles that aren’t very durable. They would be right, but Class 4 shingles are quite different.
These roofing shingles are typically made with a mix of:
- High-grade asphalt
- Rubber or polymer modifiers
- Reinforced backing layers
These shingles are engineered for toughness with rubber-like polymers (such as SBS, or styrene-butadiene-styrene) added to the asphalt mix, which helps the shingles stay flexible and absorb impact.
What Is The Difference Between Class 3 And Class 4 Rated Shingles?
You may see Class 3 impact-resistant shingles sold as well, and while this option provides good quality protection, Class 4 shingles are still more durable.
The difference between the two lies in the test that the shingles were put through. During the test for impact resistance, Class 4 shingles must withstand a larger steel ball, and a drop that’s higher than the one Class 3 shingles experience.
How Do Class 4 Impact-Resistant Shingles Help Protect Your Wisconsin Home?
Wisconsin is one of the states where it can be beneficial for you to install impact-rated shingles. Here are some benefits of having these shingles:
Prevent Hail Damage To Your Home
Over the last few years, hailstorms have become more common in Wisconsin. A single storm can leave a roof full of dents, cracks, or leaks, especially if your shingles aren’t built to handle it.
Class 4 shingles can withstand the force of hailstones that are up to two inches in diameter. That’s larger than a golf ball. If your current shingles can’t take that, your roof — and everything under it — is at risk.
Save Money Long-Term
Sure, Class 4 shingles cost more upfront, but the investment pays off over time. Depending on your roof’s size, you might pay between $5,000 and $9,000 for materials and installation.
Here’s how:
- Fewer repairs after storms
- Less chance of full roof replacement after hail
- Lower maintenance costs
- Longer lifespan, so you won’t need to replace the roof as soon
In short, while standard shingles might seem cheaper at first glance, Class 4 shingles could save you thousands in future repairs and replacements.
You May Qualify For Insurance Benefits
Many insurance providers offer discounts if your home has Class 4 impact-resistant shingles. Why? Because your home is less likely to need repairs after storms, which is what the insurance company prefers.
These discounts can vary — some go as high as 20% off your premiums. You’ll need to check with your provider and show proof of the shingle rating, but it’s a benefit worth asking about.
Are Class 4 Shingles Necessary in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin’s building codes don’t require Class 4 shingles as a state-wide rule, but they do set basic standards for shingle durability. For example, shingles must meet ASTM D 3462 standards, which cover tear strength and performance under weather stress.
Class 4 shingles exceed these requirements by a wide margin. So while you’re not legally required to use them, doing so puts your roof well above code—and gives you extra peace of mind when storms hit your area.
What Brands Make Class 4 Shingles?
Not all shingles are built the same, but for Class 4 impact resistance, a few trusted manufacturers stand out for their quality, durability, and innovation. Here’s a closer look at some top brands offering Class 4 shingles.
Atlas Roofing (StormMaster® Shake)
Atlas is a leading roofing manufacturer known for combining performance with cutting-edge technology, and their StormMaster® Shake shingles are a prime example. These Class 4 impact-resistant shingles are built with Core4® technology, and are also enhanced with a 3M Scotchgard™ Protector to prevent black streaks from algae, keeping your roof looking clean over time. Atlas offers these shingles in a wide range of high-definition color options — 10 in total, including 4 bold new shingle color options.
GAF (Timberline® AS II Shingles)
GAF is one of the most trusted roofing brands in the country, and its Timberline AS II shingles are a strong choice for anyone looking for Class 4 protection. GAF’s Class 4 shingles are built with an SBS reinforced fiberglass mat and specially formulated asphalt to resist cracking under impact.
You also get the StainGuard Plus™ algae protection limited warranty and the WindProven™ limited wind warranty, along with 7 high-definition color options.
CertainTeed’s Presidential® Shake®
Another popular Class 4 shingle product is CertainTeed’s Presidential Shake IR shingles. These Class 4 impact-resistant shingles come with UL Class A fire rating, and are built to handle winds up to 110 mph with additional upgrade options. They also fight algae with StreakFighter® protection and are designed with multiple layers for durability and a dimensional appearance.
TAMKO (StormFighter FLEX™)
TAMKO is a respected name in roofing, and their StormFighter Flex line is great impact-resistant shingles. This shingle is available in both Class 3 and Class 4 ratings. This award-winning TAMKO shingle achieves its impact resistance through the use of TAMKO’s proprietary ForceFX™ polymer technology, which provides each shingle with enhanced resilience and durability. This gives them the strength to pass the UL 2218 Class 4 test, and also offer a 160 mph wind warranty.
Malarkey (Legacy® Scotchgard™)
Malarkey has built a strong reputation for eco-conscious, high-performing roofing materials, and their Legacy® shingles are a standout Class 4 product. Talking about manufacturing, Malarkey’s Legacy shingles use NEX® Rubberized Asphalt for superior flexibility and impact resistance, which allows them to take hits from hail without breaking or granule loss. You also get premium Scotchgard protection.
High-Quality Asphalt Shingle Installation Services In Wisconsin
For Wisconsin homeowners, Class 4 asphalt shingles are absolutely worth it. If you’re tired of worrying every time the forecast calls for hail, or if you’ve dealt with storm damage before, Class 4 shingles offer real, lasting protection. They’re tougher, last longer, and may even save you money in the long run.
For the best results, you need to work with a professional roofing company such as Prestige Roofing LLC. We are:
- Licensed and insured in Wisconsin
- Familiar with Class 4 materials
- Up-to-date on local codes and weather considerations
Contact us today at (920) 791-0414 to learn more about how we can help you.