In the North Texas market, the shift toward Class 4 impact-rated shingles is becoming more pronounced. Unlike traditional oxidized asphalt, these shingles are blended with polymers like SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene), which provides a rubber-like quality to the material.
This flexibility allows the shingle to absorb the kinetic energy of a hailstone and recover its shape. Traditional shingles are more likely to suffer granule loss or fracturing of the fiberglass mat when struck by mid-sized stones.
Long-term Performance
Homeowners typically see two primary benefits from these materials:
- Reduced likelihood of cosmetic and functional damage during minor storm events.
- Potential premium discounts from major Texas insurance carriers for installing UL 2218 Class 4 products.
While no roof is completely 'hail-proof,' these advancements in material science help extend the life of a roof in the volatile DFW climate.