Are Upgraded Impact Resistant Shingles (Class 4) Worth It?

RoofingShinglesStorm Damage
Written By Noah Spagnotti
Malarkey Vista AR Class 4 impact-resistant shingles staged for roof installation by Total Elevated Roofing in Nebraska

Introduction

When it comes to roofing, not all shingles are created equal. More and more homeowners keep hearing and asking about Class 4 impact resistant shingles and if they should pay the extra cost to have them installed. Homeowners want to know if they are actually worth the cost to upgrade, or if it’s just an upsell tactic from roofing companies. In this post, I’ll break down what Class 4 shingles are, how they perform, and whether or not they’re a smart investment for your home.

What Are Class 4 Impact Resistant Shingles?

Class 4 shingles receive their certification by being rated by Underwriters Laboratories (UL 2218 test) as the highest level of impact resistance that a roofing shingle can receive. During testing, a 2-inch steel ball is dropped from 20 feet to simulate hail impact. Class 4 shingles must withstand this without cracking. If the shingle doesn’t crack or break, it earns the Class 4 label.

Class 3 vs. Class 4 Shingles – What’s the Difference?

Sometimes homeowners get quoted for Class 3 shingles and assume they’re just as good as Class 4 — but there’s a pretty big performance gap. Both shingle types are tested using the same UL 2218 impact test, but Class 4 shingles must show no visible cracks or ruptures after a 2-inch steel ball is dropped twice from 20 feet. Class 3 shingles are tested with a smaller ball (1.75 inches) and can show more damage while still passing. In real-world terms, Class 4 shingles offer better protection against larger hail and storm debris, making them a smarter choice if you’re investing in longevity or live in a high-risk area.

Popular Class 4 Impact-Resistant Shingles by Brand

Here’s a breakdown of the most popular Class 4-rated shingles we see and recommend — grouped by brand so you can compare easily:

Malarkey Roofing Products

CertainTeed

  • NorthGate® ClimateFlex® (rubberized SBS modified asphalt, flexible and Class 4 impact-resistant)

  • Belmont® IR (premium luxury shingle with impact resistance - Don’t confuse with regular Belmont® shingles)

GAF

Owens Corning

IKO

Atlas Roofing

TAMKO

  • StormFighter FLEX® (newer launch designed specifically for Class 4 compliance and high-wind ratings)

What Brand Does Total Elevated Roofing Recommend?

At the end of the day, l’ve worked with just about every major shingle brand on the market — and if I had to pick one for my own home, it would be Malarkey. Specifically, the Malarkey Vista® AR. They offer great impact resistance, perform extremely well in Nebraska's unpredictable weather, and use rubberized asphalt that adds flexibility and durability. Plus, they’re made with sustainable materials, which is a bonus. I’ve seen these shingles hold up through some rough storms, and our customers have consistently been happy with the results.

Here are a few big reasons why homeowners should consider upgrading:

1. Better Protection from Hail & Storms

Let’s face it — hailstorms are part of life in the Midwest. Standard shingles can get torn up pretty badly during a storm, leading to leaks and costly repairs. Class 4 shingles are engineered to hold up better against hail, flying debris, and even high winds. It’s not a guarantee your roof will never take damage, but it gives you much better protection against these storms and greatly decreases the risks of needing repairs after these storms roll through.

2. Insurance Perks

Many insurance companies offer a discount on your homeowner's premium when you install a Class 4 impact-resistant roof. Every policy is different, so you’ll want to check with your provider. In my experience, I’ve had customers save anywhere from 10% to 30% on their annual rate. This savings can directly offset the additional costs of installing the shingles, making the investment well worth it.

3. Fewer Repairs, Longer Lifespan

Because these shingles are stronger and more flexible, they’re less likely to crack, split, or blow off. That means fewer service calls, less patchwork, and a roof that actually lasts as long as it should.

4. They Just Look Good

A lot of the top-performing Class 4 shingles also come with upgraded aesthetics. Whether you want something that looks like cedar shake, slate, or just a beefed-up architectural shingle, there are options to match your home’s style.

Are There Any Downsides?

As with anything, there are a couple of trade-offs to be aware of:

  • They cost more upfront. Class 4 shingles typically add 15%–30% to your material cost compared to standard architectural shingles.

  • Your insurance will not cover the upgrade during a claim. If you're replacing your roof through insurance, and your policy doesn’t specify impact-resistant materials, you will have to pay the difference out of pocket.

  • They’re not magic. Class 4 doesn’t mean “hail-proof.” It just means your roof has a much better chance of surviving a storm in good shape.

So… Are They Worth It?

Here’s the real talk: if you live in a hail-prone area (like anywhere near Omaha or really anywhere in Nebraska), impact-resistant shingles are usually a smart investment. You’re less likely to need repairs after a storm, and you may even get a break on your insurance.

I especially recommend them for homeowners who:

  • Plan to stay in their home for 5+ years

  • Want fewer headaches after each storm season

  • Are already paying out-of-pocket for a new roof and want to maximize long-term value

In short — if you’re in Nebraska or anywhere that is prone to frequent hail storms or severe weather and want a longer-lasting roof that’s ready for hail, Class 4 shingles are a smart move.

Need an Expert Opinion?

At Total Elevated Roofing, I’ve installed hundreds of roofs using both standard and Class 4 impact-resistant shingles. I’ve seen firsthand how much longer a Class 4 roof can last — especially in a place like Nebraska, where storm damage is just part of the deal.

If you're thinking about upgrading, give me a call or request a free inspection. I’ll help you compare your options, check your insurance, and make a recommendation that's right for your home and budget.

Noah Spagnotti
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What to Do If a Hailstorm Damages Your Roof? (Homeowner’s Guide)