Class 3 shingles vs. Class 4 shingles: What’s the difference?

Roof tiles are a popular material for roof covering. They are divided into classes, with classes 3 and 4 being the most in demand. Specialists from Roofing & Siding in Cape Cod explained the differences between these types.

Key takeaways

Before the main information, let’s outline thoughts that will help understand the essence of the article:

Initial costs for a class 4 covering are higher, but it allows for insurance discounts, reduces the volume of repair work, provides long-term savings, and increases the house’s value when sold.

Compared to class 3 tiles, class 4 is more impact-resistant and durable against hail, heavy rains, winds, and other extreme weather conditions.
Installation matters, as it affects resistance to impact loads and economic efficiency.

What do tile classes mean?

They are assigned based on impact resistance – the ability to withstand impacts from hail, hard debris, and other objects. There are four classes in total, and the classification is based on the size of the hailstones that the tile can withstand without being damaged.

The classification is carried out by two organizations – Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and Factory Mutual (FM). They test the properties by assessing the ability to withstand impacts from drops from a height of 6 meters. The tests are identical, but UL uses steel balls, while FM uses ice balls. The class is assigned based on the size of the ice or steel ball that fell on the sample without damaging it.

What is class 3 tile?

It is a mid-level roofing material with moderate impact resistance. The status is assigned to a product that can withstand the fall of a steel or ice ball with a diameter of 1.75 inches, dropped from a height of 20 feet, without any damage or loss of integrity. This tile is quite durable but has a moderate cost, offering an excellent balance of quality and price.

What is class 4 tile?

It is the most durable of all types of asphalt shingles. During testing, it can withstand the impact of a 2-inch ball without cracking, tearing, or breaking. This type of covering is expensive but suitable for regions with frequent hail and hurricane-force winds. Some insurance companies offer discounts to clients whose homes are covered with this type of tile.

What is the difference between class 3 and class 4 tiles?

The main difference is impact resistance. Class 4 has higher impact resistance than class 3. During testing, it is established that the highest category product remains intact after the impact of a 2-inch ball. Class 3 products are less resistant to impact loads: they can withstand the fall of a 1.75-inch ball.

Tests cannot exactly replicate real-world conditions, as they involve new, unused samples. The actual impact resistance is also influenced by other factors: the age of the material, the correctness of its installation, roof pitch, air temperature, and the angle at which the hailstones fall.

Advantages of class 3 asphalt shingles

Pros:

Cost-effectiveness. The material is cheaper than the class 4 equivalent, making it possible to reliably protect the roof without high expenses. This is a relatively inexpensive option for buildings located in regions with moderate or mild climates.
Durability. However, this is only maintained under standard, non-extreme weather conditions. If the area has minimal risks of strong hurricanes and storms, shingle roofing will provide effective weather protection and serve for a long time.
Sufficient impact resistance. Hailstones up to 4.5 cm in diameter can fall on the shingles without causing any tears or cracks. This level of protection is suitable for medium-strength hail – with not very large stones and without strong gusty winds.

Advantages of Class 4 Asphalt Shingles

Benefits:

Maximum impact resistance, confirmed by testing. Hailstones up to 2 inches in diameter can fall on the roof without causing any damage. This is a good choice for regions where hailstorms frequently occur. The material is expensive, but it remains intact after bad weather, preventing high repair costs.
Long lifespan. The roofing will be durable even in extreme weather conditions – during heavy rains, gusty winds, and hail. The material lasts longer and stays intact compared to class 3 products. This is a good investment in long-term roof protection.
Insurance savings. The roofing material is very durable, so having it may offer an opportunity to receive a discount on insurance premiums. This means insurance will be cheaper, which compensates for the purchase cost. It is worth checking with specific companies to see if they offer reduced insurance rates.

What is the best option for your home?

To choose the right option, consider the following factors:

Climate of the area. If the region experiences frequent hailstorms, class 4 shingles are the better choice. If hail is rare and of moderate size, class 3 is sufficient.
Purpose of the building. Industrial, public, or commercial buildings should be maximally protected, so the strongest, most impact-resistant roofing is necessary.
Insurance conditions. Check with your insurance company to see if they offer a discount if the roof is covered with top-tier shingles. If the cost can be reduced, it makes sense to invest in more expensive roofing material.
Budget. Class 3 material is cheaper but suffers more from hail damage and requires frequent repairs. Class 4 shingles are more expensive but help save on repair costs.

Price difference

Class 4 shingles are more expensive than their cheaper alternatives. The price difference is explained by the complex manufacturing technology. Top-tier products are made from innovative synthetic materials, such as specially modified SBS asphalt. This rubberized mixture is flexible and resistant to impact loads. The cost of installation is the same.

However, the difference is offset because class 3 shingles require professional inspections after every strong hailstorm, and sometimes repairs are necessary. Insurance for such a roof is also more expensive.

Q&A

How much more expensive is class 4 shingles?

On average, the price difference is about 50 US dollars per square. This option is considered premium and is sometimes released in limited, luxury editions. However, the exact difference cannot be specified because there are also premium lines among class 3 products, which may cost the same or even more.

How to determine if you have class 4 shingles?

Impact resistance cannot be determined during a visual inspection, as there are no obvious external differences. Class 4 shingles may be denser, but it’s also difficult to assess this by touch. Usually, the category is specified by the manufacturer in the accompanying documentation included with the packaging or on the plastic backing.

Is it worth buying class 4 shingles?

Yes, the investment is justified and reasonable, as the material is durable and can withstand large hail impacts. Considering that destructive hurricanes have become more frequent in the US, it’s worth spending more to protect your home. Keep in mind that some insurance companies offer lower premiums if the roof is weather-resistant.

What makes class 4 shingles more impact-resistant than class 3?

Increased resistance to impact loads is achieved through advanced manufacturing technologies and high-quality materials. Some shingles are simply thicker and denser, with reinforced bases or multi-layered structures. Other coatings are made using special, complex formulas. One method to improve impact resistance is incorporating a mesh reinforced with polymers. This helps bind the structure together, preventing it from breaking when hit by hard objects. Manufacturers also add rubber polymers, such as styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS). This gives flexibility and helps the shingles bounce off hailstones.

Conclusion

Now that you understand the difference, it will be easy to choose the right roofing material that will reliably protect the roof from hail. Take the purchase of the covering seriously and trust the installation to the specialists at Roofing & Siding in Cape Cod.

Dmitry Labkovich

Since 2002, I have dedicated my career to construction, starting as a cleanup worker and laborer. Despite tough conditions, I quickly mastered roofing and siding, and within six months, I was handling complex tasks. Later, I became a subcontractor, growing the business with a partner and expanding our team.

In 2011, I founded Roofing and Siding of Cape Cod and Boston. At the same time, I continued working with major firms, building a reputation through high-quality work and excellent service. In 2010, I joined the Coast Guard Reserve, which helped me develop leadership skills. Before my deployment in 2018, I built a reliable team that ensured steady company growth.

Today, Roofing and Siding of Cape Cod and Boston is a team of 30+ professionals, all OSHA-certified. We continue to expand while maintaining top-quality standards and exceptional customer service.

**Experience & Expertise**

- 20+ years in the roofing and siding industry
- Hands-on experience from laborer to business owner
- Managing a team of 30+ professionals
- Business development and client relations

**Education & Certification**

- Practical training in roofing and siding techniques
- OSHA safety certification
- Coast Guard Reserve service experience
- Ongoing professional development in construction

US Veteran-Owned Quality Roofing

50-Year Roofing Guarantee

Up to $3,000 Off on Eligible Projects!

Delivering Unmatched Quality and Service

Experience the difference with Roofing & Siding of Cape Cod. Our commitment to excellence sets us apart.

Expert Craftsmanship

Our team's skills ensure top-notch quality in every project.

Sustainable Materials

We use eco-friendly materials for a greener future.

Customized Solutions

Tailored services to meet your specific needs.

Competitive Pricing

Quality services at affordable rates.

Veteran-Owned

A company with a commitment to integrity and excellence.

Local Expertise

Decades of experience specific to Cape Cod climate.