Impact Resistant Shingles Help Protect Homes From Hail Damage
If you’ve lived in East Texas for more than a season, you already know how this goes. A storm rolls through, the wind picks up and then comes the hail.
And your roof is taking that impact.
That’s why more homeowners are switching to impact resistant shingles. They hold up better in storm-prone areas.
At Steele Roofing, we install Class 4 impact resistant shingles for homeowners around Tyler who are tired of dealing with repairs after every major storm.
Why Impact Resistant Shingles Matter in East Texas
This isn’t a mild-weather area. We sit right on the edge of Tornado Alley, which means strong storms aren’t occasional, they’re part of living here.
Hail and flying debris are what usually cause the most damage, and standard shingles just aren’t built to take repeated hits like that.
Impact resistant shingles are.
They’re made to absorb that impact instead of cracking or breaking apart, which is usually what leads to leaks later on.
Some homeowners also see insurance savings after upgrading, which doesn’t hurt.
What Is a Class 4 Impact Rating?
You’ll see “Class 4” mentioned a lot, and it’s not just a marketing label.
It comes from something called UL 2218 testing, which is basically a test that simulates hail damage.
They drop steel balls onto the shingles from specific heights, then check for cracking.
Here’s how the ratings break down:
- Class 1: Minimal impact resistance
- Class 2: Moderate
- Class 3: Strong
- Class 4: Highest level of resistance
Class 4 shingles are the ones that can take a hit without splitting or fracturing.
Impact Resistant vs. Standard Architectural Shingles
| Feature | Class 4 Impact Resistant | Standard Architectural |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Resistance | Highest available | Limited |
| Storm Durability | Designed for hail and debris | More likely to get damaged |
| Lifespan | Typically longer | Shorter in storm-heavy areas |
| Insurance Benefits | Often eligible | Rarely qualifies |
| Best Fit | East Texas weather | Mild climates |
Standard shingles aren’t “bad,” but in this area, they tend to wear out faster simply because of repeated exposure to hail and high winds.
Impact Resistant Shingle Options in Tyler, TX
We stick with materials that have a good track record here, not just what looks good on paper.
IKO Nordic Impact Resistant Shingles
The IKO Nordic™ is IKO’s top-performing shingle line and one of the few asphalt shingles that carries a Class 4 impact rating right out of the box. The key is the polymer-modified asphalt coating layered over a heavy-duty fiberglass mat. That combination makes the shingle flexible enough to absorb a hit rather than crack under it, which is exactly what you want when hail rains down above your East Texas home.
The Nordic also features IKO’s ArmourZone® nailing strip, a reinforced band that holds fasteners firmly in place and is rated for winds up to 130 mph. If you’re looking for a shingle that handles both hail and high winds well, this one checks both boxes. It’s also available in a range of color blends that hold up well in direct sun, which matters in East Texas summers.
CertainTeed Impact Resistant Shingles
CertainTeed offers two Class 4 rated products worth knowing about. The Landmark® ClimateFlex® uses a polymer-modified asphalt blend with what CertainTeed calls ClimateFlex® technology, which is designed to keep the shingle pliable in cold weather during installation while delivering strong impact and hail resistance year-round. It has the look of dimensional wood shake with a 110 mph wind rating standard.
The Grand Manor is CertainTeed’s premium option and is designed to replicate the look of natural slate. It’s a heavier, multi-layer shingle with a Class 4 UL 2218 impact rating and Class A fire resistance. If curb appeal matters as much as storm protection, the Grand Manor® is worth a look. Both products include CertainTeed’s StreakFighter® algae resistance, which helps maintain appearance over time in humid climates like ours.
Atlas Impact Resistant Shingles
Atlas makes two Class 4 shingles that cover different price points without cutting corners on storm performance. The StormMaster® Shake is their flagship impact product. It’s built with Atlas’ Core4® polymer-modified technology, which gives it a more flexible, durable base that holds up to hail and large temperature swings. It’s rated for winds up to 150 mph and has a wider 42-inch format that covers more area per shingle and gives roofs a bold, shake-style profile. It also includes 3M Scotchgard protection to prevent algae streaking.
The Pinnacle® Impact is Atlas’ more accessible Class 4 option. It uses a similar polymer blend to hit the UL 2218 Class 4 standard but comes in at a lower price point than the StormMaster®. It still includes 3M Scotchgard algae resistance, a 130 mph wind warranty, and the HP42 wide-format design. For homeowners who want Class 4 protection without going to the top of the budget, the Pinnacle® Impact is a solid choice that delivers on the basics.
Malarkey Impact Resistant Shingles
Malarkey is another top brand of Class 4 Impact Resistant shingles. They use a rubberized asphalt blend that gives the shingles more flexibility, so they absorb the impact instead of cracking.
That flexibility is what makes the difference during a hail storm.
Tilcor Stone-Coated Steel Shingles
Tilcor is a different direction entirely. It’s a steel system with a stone-coated finish, so you get the durability of metal without the typical metal roof look.
It’s a solid option if you want something longer-lasting and more resistant overall.
We’ll go over both with you and help you figure out what actually makes sense for your home.
Do Impact Resistant Shingles Lower Insurance Costs in Texas?
In a lot of cases, yes.
Many insurance companies in Texas offer 10–30% discounts on the wind and hail portion of your policy if your roof meets Class 4 standards.
There’s usually some paperwork involved. Most insurers want proof, often a PC068 form from the Texas Department of Insurance.
We take care of that documentation, so you’re not stuck trying to track it down later.
How to Choose a Roofer for Impact Resistant Shingles in Tyler, TX
After a big storm, roofing companies seem to appear out of nowhere. A lot of them are just passing through.
That’s where a lot of homeowners run into problems.
If you’re looking at upgrading your roof, it’s worth slowing down and checking a few basics:
- Make sure the company is local
- Confirm they’re licensed and insured
- Ask if they actually install impact resistant systems regularly
- Make sure they can provide the documentation your insurance needs
If it feels rushed, that’s usually a red flag.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Class 4 impact resistant shingle?
It’s a roofing shingle that meets the highest rating under UL 2218 testing, meaning it can handle significant impact without cracking.
Will my homeowner’s insurance go down?
It can. Many Texas insurers offer discounts, but it depends on your specific policy.
How long do impact resistant shingles last?
Generally longer than standard shingles, especially in areas with frequent storms, since they’re less likely to get damaged in the first place.
Can I get a roof inspection first?
Yes. We can take a look at your current roof and help you decide if upgrading makes sense right now or later.
Ready to Protect Your Home with Class 4 Impact Resistant Shingles?
If you’re tired of dealing with storm damage or just want something more durable, Class 4 impact resistant shingles are worth looking into.
Steele Roofing is locally owned and based right here in East Texas, and we’re fully licensed and insured. We’ll walk you through your options without the pressure and make sure everything is installed the right way.
Give us a call to schedule an inspection or get a quote.
