Impact-rated Shingles
Impact-rated Shingles | Siding Solutions | Roofing | Chattanooga
Chattanooga’s weather can turn from sunny to severe in a heartbeat, so HEP equips your home with impact-rated shingles that laugh off hailstones and 130-mph gusts. These advanced roofing systems blend heavyweight durability with architectural style, locking water out while their cool-roof technology helps keep energy costs down. Backed by industry-leading warranties and installed by HEP’s factory-certified crews, they’re the kind of roof you forget about—because it never lets you down.
To complete your exterior fortress, our siding solutions pair seamlessly with the new roof, wrapping your house in a fade-resistant, low-maintenance shield that looks freshly painted year after year. Choose from vibrant colors, insulated panels, and accents that boost curb appeal while adding an extra R-value layer to fight Chattanooga’s summer heat. One call to HEP delivers a cohesive, storm-ready exterior that protects your investment and makes the neighbors look twice.
FAQs
What are impact-rated shingles and why are they a smart choice for Chattanooga homes?
Impact-rated shingles are asphalt or composite shingles that have passed the UL 2218 Class 3 or Class 4 impact test, meaning they can withstand the force of 1.75"–2" steel balls dropped from 20 feet without cracking. Chattanooga frequently experiences hail, high winds off the Tennessee River, and rapidly changing spring storms. Impact-rated products absorb that abuse better than standard shingles, reducing the risk of roof leaks, costly deck repairs, and premature replacement.
How do impact-rated shingles perform against hail compared with standard architectural shingles?
Standard architectural shingles can fracture or lose granules when hit by 1" hail, exposing the asphalt mat and accelerating UV damage. Class 4 impact-rated shingles retain their granule surface and remain watertight after strikes from 2" hail, roughly equivalent to a fast-pitched baseball. Independent studies show Class 4 shingles experience up to 40 % less post-storm insurance claims than conventional shingles in the Southeast.
What siding options are considered impact-resistant, and which work best in Chattanooga’s climate?
For siding, the top impact-resistant materials are: • Fiber-cement boards (≥5⁄16") – certified to ASTM D7793, resist hail and wind-borne debris, impervious to humidity and termites common in the Tennessee Valley. • Engineered wood siding with polymer-coated surface – passes ICC-ES AC321 impact standards, offers the warm look of cedar without the splintering. • Premium vinyl siding with rolled-over nail hems and 0.046" gauge – rated to withstand 180 mph winds and minor debris strikes. Your best choice depends on desired appearance, budget, and maintenance tolerance: fiber-cement for maximum durability, engineered wood for natural curb appeal, premium vinyl for value.
Can impact-rated roofing and siding lower my homeowners-insurance premiums in Hamilton County?
Many carriers that underwrite policies in Tennessee, including State Farm, Travelers, and USAA, offer 5 %–25 % discounts on the wind & hail portion of the premium when a Class 4 impact-resistant roof is installed. Some also credit homes wrapped in approved impact-resistant siding. You will need a Certificate of Compliance or the manufacturer’s Class 4 rating documentation from your contractor to submit to your insurer. Savings generally offset the modest upgrade cost within 3–5 years.
How long will installation take, and will the project disrupt my daily routine?
A typical 2,000–2,500 sq ft Chattanooga home can be re-roofed with impact-rated shingles in 1–2 days, assuming one tear-off layer and good weather. Siding replacement averages 4–6 days depending on fascia/soffit repairs and trim details. Crews use magnetic nail sweepers, dump trailers, and landscape protection nets to minimize mess, and most noise ends by 6 p.m. You can stay in the home during the project; only attic storage needs to be covered to catch falling debris.
What warranties and maintenance requirements come with impact-rated roofing and siding systems?
Most Class 4 roofing manufacturers (e.g., CertainTeed NorthGate, Owens Corning Duration Storm) provide limited lifetime warranties against manufacturing defects and 15-year 130 mph wind warranties. When installed by a certified contractor, you can also qualify for enhanced non-prorated coverage for 50 years. Impact-rated fiber-cement or engineered wood siding carries 30–50-year product warranties and 15-year finish warranties. Maintenance is minimal: annual roof inspections, clearing gutters, and repainting or re-caulking fiber-cement every 10–15 years. Following these steps preserves your warranty and maximizes storm resilience.