Class 4 Impact-Resistant Shingles: Are They Worth It in Hail Country?
How Class 4 (UL 2218) impact-resistant shingles perform in hail, the insurance discount they unlock, and when they pay back the upcharge.
In TX, OK, CO, KS, NE, and MO, Class 4 impact-resistant shingles unlock an insurance discount that often pays back the upcharge in 4–6 years.
What UL 2218 Class 4 actually means
A 2-inch steel ball dropped from 20 feet must not crack the shingle. It is the highest rating; Class 1 is the lowest.
The rating is about impact resistance only — not wind, not lifespan. A Class 4 shingle is not automatically better in every metric.
Typical products
GAF Timberline AS II, Owens Corning Duration Storm, CertainTeed Landmark IR, Malarkey Legacy (SBS-modified), Atlas StormMaster Shake.
SBS-modified (rubberized) shingles like Malarkey Legacy hold the rating longer as they age.
Insurance discount reality
Colorado: 20–30% off wind/hail premium.
Texas: 15–35% depending on carrier (State Farm, Allstate, Farmers all offer meaningful credits).
Oklahoma & Kansas: 15–25%.
Ask your carrier for the discount BEFORE you buy — some require pre-approval and photos of the wrapper.
When it doesn't pay back
Non-hail states: skip it. The $500–$1,200 upcharge on an average roof buys you nothing.
Metal roof already selected: metal is inherently impact-resistant; Class 4 does not stack.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do Class 4 shingles prevent all hail damage?
- No. They resist cracking and puncture, but granule loss and cosmetic bruising still occur. They dramatically reduce claim frequency and severity, though.
- Does the Class 4 rating expire?
- Yes, effectively. Field studies show the rating degrades measurably after 10–12 years for polymer-modified asphalt shingles. SBS-modified (Malarkey) holds up longer.
Choosing materials for your roof?
Compare brands and price your project before you sign anything.