Why class 4 impact-resistant shingles are gaining ground

By Jesse Sanchez. 

When the skies turn hostile, these high-performance shingles don’t crack under pressure. 

As climate patterns shift and storms become more unpredictable, the conversation around roofing durability is heating up, and for good reason. Whether you're in hail-prone Texas, wind-battered Kansas or even milder regions that see the occasional summer squall, homeowners and builders are prioritizing stronger roofing systems. Companies like CertainTeed are helping lead the charge, by educating on the value of impact-resistant shingles, especially those with a coveted Class 4 rating. 

Impact resistance has shifted from a luxury to a necessity in modern roofing. With extreme weather becoming more frequent, long-term performance and reduced insurance claims increasingly depend on choosing materials designed to withstand harsh conditions. The industry standard for measuring shingle strength is the UL 2218 test, which evaluates how well a product withstands impact. Class 4 is the highest rating a shingle can receive. During testing, a two-inch steel ball is dropped from 20 feet directly onto the shingle. A pass means no visible cracks or tears, a level of durability that can translate into real-world savings. 

And insurance companies are taking note. In some states, homeowners who upgrade to Class 4-rated shingles may qualify for policy discounts, though eligibility varies by provider and region. Still, the potential for lower premiums adds to the appeal of these high-performance materials. While brands like CertainTeed’s NorthGate™ have drawn attention for their SBS-modified asphalt, known for flexibility in freezing temps and resistance to high-speed hail, NorthGate is just one contender in a growing field of impact-resistant options. From polymer blends to composite materials, manufacturers are competing to raise the bar on shingle toughness. 

Not all asphalt is created equal. Whether you're building new or replacing an aging roof, the smartest investment might be one that doesn’t shatter under pressure. 

Learn more about how impact-resistant shingles are changing the roofing landscape and why Class 4 might become the new baseline!