Choosing the right shingle for impact-rated resistance

By Dani Sheehan. 

Know the difference between Class 3 and Class 4 impact ratings and how TAMKO’s top shingles deliver the performance your customers need. 

As hailstorms and severe weather events grow more frequent and intense, impact-ratings have become a non-negotiable feature for roofing systems. Homeowners are increasingly prioritizing durability, and as a contractor, offering products that meet these expectations while ensuring easy installation and long-term performance will help you stand out in your market. 

Understanding the difference between Class 3 and Class 4 impact ratings is critical to making informed product recommendations to your customers. 

The UL 2218 Impact Resistance Test is the industry standard for evaluating shingle durability against hail impact. This test involves UL dropping steel balls of varying sizes from heights of 17 to 20 feet onto the shingles to simulate hail impact. 

• Class 3: Shingles must withstand the impact of a 1.75-inch steel ball dropped from 17 feet without cracking. 
• Class 4: Shingles must withstand the impact of a 2-inch steel ball dropped from 20 feet without cracking. 

While the size difference seems small, the increase in impact energy is significant. The Class 4 test delivers nearly 30% more impact energy than Class 3, making it the number one choice in hail-prone regions of the country. You should weigh the higher upfront cost of Class 4 shingles against potential insurance discounts, reduced repair needs and long-term performance when discussing options with homeowners. TAMKO’s shingles are classified by UL for compliance with both UL 2218 Class 3 and Class 4 impact resistance*. 

As demand for high-performance roofing continues to grow, you have an opportunity to differentiate your business by offering impact-rated shingles that align with local weather conditions and homeowner expectations. TAMKO delivers two standout solutions, each engineered for specific performance needs. From balanced strength and curb appeal to maximum resilience in harsh climates, TAMKO’s innovative shingles help you exceed expectations and build lasting trust with your customers. 

Titan XT® shingles: Built tough, designed for efficiency 

TAMKO’s Titan XT® shingles are engineered to deliver strong, reliable protection and smooth, confident installation. Featuring TriShield™ Technology and AnchorLock™ reinforcement, these shingles combine a Class 3 impact rating† with a 160mph ‡ WindGuard® extended warranty. 

Why contractors choose Titan XT® shingles: 

• Fast, accurate installation with a wide, reinforced nail zone that’s five times larger than standard shingles. 
• Granule, sealant and laminate integrity for longer-term weather protection and structural stability. 
• High-contrast color options, including TAMKO’s America’s Natural Colors® and Heritage® collections. 
• Limited Lifetime Warranty, with extended enhanced coverage available when installed by a TAMKO Pro Certified Contractor – a strong reason to join The TAMKO Edge® contractor program. 

StormFighter FLEX® shingles: Maximum durability in every condition 

TAMKO’s highest level of impact protection and flexibility, StormFighter FLEX® shingles are a Class 4 rated** polymer-modified shingle engineered with proprietary ForceFX® technology and AnchorLock™ reinforcement to deliver all-weather resilience.  

Why contractors choose StormFighter FLEX® shingles: 

• Class 4 impact-rating** helps protect against extreme weather, flying debris and foot traffic damage during installation. 
• Cold weather installation down to 25°F††, so crews can work longer into the season and earlier in the day. 
• Sealant grips strong, holding fast even in cooler temperatures for immediate protection. 
• Granule and laminate durability help ensure lasting beauty and structural performance. 
• 160mph‡ WindGuard® extended warranty supported by robust reinforcement and anchoring systems. 
• Limited Lifetime Warranty, with enhanced coverage available through The TAMKO Edge® contractor program. 

Join The TAMKO Edge Contractor Program and position yourself as a trusted installer for some of the industry’s most innovative shingles.

* UL 2218 testing utilizes a dropped steel ball which may not correlate with real world rooftop experience with the impact of storm driven hail or other objects. 

† Titan XT® shingles are classified by UL for compliance with UL 2218 Class 3 impact resistance. 

‡160 MPH extended wind warranty requires TAMKO® starter and TAMKO® hip and ridge. See TAMKO's full High Wind Application Instructions for all requirements and restrictions. 

** StormFighter FLEX® shingles are classified by UL for compliance with UL 2218 Class 4 impact resistance. 

†† Please consult TAMKO’s Limited Warranty and Application Instructions for requirements