Impact-rated Shingles
Impact-rated Shingles | Roofing Done Right | Roofing | Birchwood
Birchwood homeowners know how quickly a sunny day can turn into hail and high winds. That’s why HEP installs premium, impact-rated shingles that shrug off pounding ice, driving rain, and UV damage while adding rich dimension to your curb appeal. Our factory-trained crews arrive on time, protect your landscaping, and use drone-assisted inspections to make sure every square foot meets or exceeds code—proof that this is roofing done right.
From the first shingle to the final cleanup, we back our work with industry-leading warranties and a satisfaction guarantee that keeps your investment secure for decades. Reach out today and experience how HEP transforms tough Appalachian weather into just another beautiful Birchwood backdrop.
FAQs
What are impact-rated shingles and how do they protect my Birchwood home?
Impact-rated asphalt shingles are manufactured with a reinforced polymer mesh or thicker asphalt coating that allows them to pass the UL 2218 impact test—Class 4 is the highest rating. During the test, 2" steel balls are dropped repeatedly on the shingle without causing cracks or tears. In real-world terms, that means far better resistance to hail, wind-driven debris, and falling branches, all of which are common in the Birchwood area. By resisting bruising and punctures, impact-rated shingles prevent leaks, preserve the roof deck, and extend the overall life of your roof.
Are impact-resistant shingles worth the extra investment compared to standard shingles?
Yes. Although Class 4 impact-rated shingles typically cost 10–20 % more up front, most Birchwood homeowners recover that difference through fewer storm repairs, a longer service life (30–50 years compared with 15–25), and potential insurance discounts. They also add resale value because buyers recognize they will not have to replace the roof after the next hailstorm. When you factor in those savings, the life-cycle cost of impact-rated shingles is often lower than that of entry-level products.
How is the "Roofing Done Right" installation process different for impact-rated shingles?
Our certified crews follow the manufacturer’s high-wind specification: six nails per shingle, corrosion-resistant ring-shank nails, and a staggered pattern that locks each course together. We install matching Class 4 starter strips, ice-and-water shield along all eaves and valleys, heavy-gauge aluminum drip edge, and high-profile ridge caps designed for impact resistance. A dedicated site supervisor inspects deck integrity, ventilation, and flashing before the first shingle is laid and again at final walk-through, ensuring your roof performs exactly as the Class 4 rating promises.
Will installing Class 4 impact-rated shingles lower my homeowners-insurance premium in Birchwood?
Most national and regional carriers that serve Birchwood offer credits of 10 – 35 % on the wind/hail portion of your policy for UL 2218 Class 4 roofing. After we finish your project, we provide the formal "impact-resistant roofing" certificate and photographs your insurer will request. While each company sets its own rules—some require you to waive cosmetic-damage claims—nearly all agree that a Class 4 roof reduces risk and therefore qualifies for a lower premium.
How long do impact-resistant asphalt shingles last in Birchwood’s climate?
Because they withstand hail, thermal cycling, and 130 mph wind gusts, Class 4 shingles routinely last 30–50 years in northern Wisconsin’s freeze-thaw environment. The thicker asphalt mat resists granule loss, and most brands include copper-infused granules that inhibit algae streaks. When installed with proper attic ventilation and annual inspections, your roof should meet or exceed its 40- or 50-year limited lifetime warranty.
Do impact-rated shingles require special maintenance or repairs after storms?
Maintenance is roughly the same as for standard shingles: keep gutters clear, trim overhanging limbs, and schedule an inspection after severe weather. The big difference is that you are far less likely to need emergency repairs. If hail does strike, impact-rated shingles may show slight cosmetic dents, but the underlying fiberglass mat remains intact so water cannot penetrate. We offer free post-storm drone inspections; if hidden damage does occur, it is covered under both the manufacturer’s impact warranty and our 10-year “Roofing Done Right” workmanship guarantee.