Class 4 UL 2218 Certified Installation

Impact Resistant Shingles Myrtle Beach

Maximum protection against hail, hurricanes, and wind-driven debris. Class 4 rated shingles with 10-28% insurance discounts for South Carolina homeowners. Expert installation by certified professionals.

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GAF Master Elite Certified
Class 4 Impact Rated

What Are Impact Resistant Shingles?

Impact resistant shingles represent a significant advancement in roofing technology designed specifically to withstand the punishing conditions coastal homeowners face. These engineered roofing products combine traditional asphalt shingle aesthetics with advanced materials that absorb and disperse impact energy, providing superior protection against hail, wind-driven debris, and falling objects.

The key innovation in impact resistant shingles lies in their construction. Unlike standard asphalt shingles that use conventional oxidized asphalt, impact resistant shingles incorporate SBS (Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene) polymer-modified asphalt. This rubberized compound dramatically increases flexibility and impact absorption. When hail or debris strikes a standard shingle, the brittle asphalt cracks and fractures. When the same impact hits an SBS-modified shingle, the material flexes and rebounds without structural damage.

Beyond the modified asphalt, impact resistant shingles feature enhanced fiberglass mat reinforcement with higher tensile strength, specialized granule adhesion that maintains coverage even after impacts, and thicker profiles that provide additional mass to dissipate energy. The combination of these features creates a roofing system that can withstand impacts equivalent to 2-inch diameter hail traveling at terminal velocity—roughly 60-70 mph.

Key Components of Impact Resistant Shingles

SBS-Modified Asphalt

Rubberized compound that flexes on impact rather than cracking

Reinforced Fiberglass Mat

Higher tensile strength prevents tearing under stress

Enhanced Granule Adhesion

Ceramic-coated granules stay bonded even after impacts

Thicker Profile Design

Additional material mass disperses impact energy

For Myrtle Beach homeowners, impact resistant shingles address multiple coastal roofing challenges simultaneously. The same properties that resist hail damage also provide superior performance against wind-driven rain penetration, thermal cycling from our hot summers, and the constant humidity that degrades standard shingles prematurely. This makes them an ideal choice for residential roofing throughout coastal South Carolina.

How Impact Resistance is Tested: UL 2218 Standard

Understanding how impact resistance ratings are determined helps homeowners make informed decisions about roofing materials. The industry standard for testing shingle impact resistance is UL 2218, developed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), an independent safety science company that has certified products for over 125 years.

The UL 2218 test methodology simulates hail impacts under controlled laboratory conditions. The test apparatus drops steel balls of varying diameters from a height of 20 feet onto shingle samples maintained at room temperature (73°F ± 4°F). The steel balls approximate the density and impact characteristics of actual hailstones at terminal velocity—the speed hail reaches when falling from storm clouds.

Each sample receives two impacts in the same location, representing the worst-case scenario of being struck twice in an identical spot during a hailstorm. After impact, technicians examine the shingle for cracking, tearing, splitting, or fracturing. Any visible damage constitutes failure. The test is remarkably stringent—even hairline cracks invisible without magnification can disqualify a product.

UL 2218 Impact Classification Levels

Class 1

Resists 1.25-inch steel ball (equivalent to ~1-inch hail)

Basic Protection
Class 2

Resists 1.5-inch steel ball (equivalent to ~1.25-inch hail)

Moderate Protection
Class 3

Resists 1.75-inch steel ball (equivalent to ~1.5-inch hail)

Enhanced Protection
Class 4

Resists 2-inch steel ball (equivalent to golf ball to baseball sized hail)

Maximum Protection

The progression from Class 1 to Class 4 represents increasingly severe impact conditions. Each class level requires passing all lower levels—a Class 4 shingle must successfully resist Class 1, 2, and 3 impacts before attempting the Class 4 test. This ensures consistent performance across the entire range of hail sizes homeowners might encounter.

Important: Only Class 4 shingles qualify for insurance discounts in most states, including South Carolina.

Class 1-3 ratings, while offering some protection, typically do not meet insurance company requirements for premium discounts. Always verify UL 2218 Class 4 certification before purchasing.

It is important to note that UL 2218 tests shingles at room temperature. Some manufacturers conduct additional testing at cold temperatures (32°F or lower) since shingles become more brittle in cold weather. Myrtle Beach rarely experiences prolonged freezing temperatures, but winter storms can bring hail when temperatures hover near freezing. Products with both standard and cold-temperature certifications offer the most comprehensive protection.

Class 4 Shingles: The Highest Impact Rating

Class 4 impact resistance represents the pinnacle of shingle protection available to homeowners. Achieving this rating requires passing the most demanding standardized test in the roofing industry, and products that earn Class 4 certification consistently demonstrate superior performance in real-world severe weather conditions.

To earn Class 4 certification, shingles must withstand two direct impacts from a 2-inch diameter steel ball (approximately 5.4 ounces) dropped from 20 feet. The impact energy generated approximates a 2-inch hailstone traveling at terminal velocity—roughly 70 mph. This is no gentle test; the concentrated force can punch through standard 3-tab shingles instantly and crack even premium architectural shingles designed for aesthetic appeal rather than impact resistance.

What Makes Class 4 Different

  • 25-40% more SBS rubber content than standard shingles
  • Reinforced fiberglass mat with higher fiber density
  • Proprietary adhesive formulations for granule retention
  • Thicker overall profile (typically 5-15% heavier per square)

Real-World Performance Benefits

  • Survives golf ball-sized hail without visible damage
  • Resists branch impacts up to 2 inches diameter
  • Maintains granule coverage after repeated impacts
  • No warranty voidance from documented hail events

The engineering required to achieve Class 4 status goes beyond simply adding more rubber to the asphalt blend. Manufacturers spend years perfecting the precise balance of flexibility and rigidity, granule adhesion and surface texture, weight and workability. The result is a shingle that professional roofers install using standard techniques but that performs far beyond standard expectations when severe weather strikes.

Class 4 shingles also tend to outperform in categories beyond impact resistance. The same SBS polymers that absorb hail impacts also resist thermal cycling damage, maintain flexibility in cold weather, and resist UV degradation better than standard oxidized asphalt. This translates to longer service life—typically 25-30 years in coastal environments compared to 15-20 years for standard architectural shingles.

Why Class 4 Matters for Your Insurance

Insurance companies recognize Class 4 shingles as a significant risk reduction factor. Homes with Class 4 roofing file fewer hail damage claims, and when claims do occur, damage is typically limited compared to standard roofing. This actuarial reality drives the 10-28% premium discounts available in South Carolina.

To qualify for discounts, you will need documentation proving Class 4 certification. This includes manufacturer product data sheets, UL certification numbers, and installation records from a licensed contractor. Weather Shield Roofing provides complete documentation packages with every Class 4 installation.

Why Myrtle Beach Needs Impact Resistant Roofing

Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand face a unique combination of weather threats that makes impact resistant roofing not merely beneficial but essential for protecting your home investment. Our coastal location exposes roofs to hurricanes, severe thunderstorms, tropical systems, and the steady degradation of salt air and high humidity—all conditions that standard shingles struggle to withstand.

Hurricane and Tropical Storm Exposure

South Carolina's coastline lies directly in the Atlantic hurricane corridor. Since 2015, our region has experienced multiple named storms including Hurricane Florence (2018), which caused over $24 billion in combined damages across the Carolinas. Hurricane Isaias (2020) and the annual parade of tropical storms remind coastal homeowners that roof protection is paramount.

During hurricanes, the primary roof damage mechanism is not the sustained wind itself but wind-driven debris. Tree branches, fence sections, lawn furniture, and construction materials become projectiles traveling at 80-150 mph. Standard shingles crack and tear when struck, creating entry points for wind-driven rain. Class 4 impact resistant shingles absorb these impacts without compromising the roof envelope, maintaining waterproof integrity even under assault.

This is why we recommend impact resistant shingles as a key component of hurricane resistant roofing systems for all Grand Strand homes. Combined with proper installation techniques and enhanced underlayment, Class 4 shingles provide comprehensive storm protection.

Hail and Severe Thunderstorm Risk

While South Carolina is not in the traditional "Hail Alley" of the central United States, our region experiences significant hail events. NOAA data shows Horry County averages 4-6 hail events annually, with hailstones ranging from pea-sized to golf ball-sized (1.75 inches) or larger. Severe thunderstorm season runs from March through October, with peak activity in spring and early summer.

A single severe hailstorm can damage an entire subdivision's roofs simultaneously. After major hail events, roofing contractors face months-long backlogs while homeowners wait under compromised roofs for repairs. Impact resistant shingles eliminate this vulnerability—Class 4 rated products survive the vast majority of hail events without damage, meaning no emergency repairs, no insurance claims, and no disruption to your life.

Wind-Driven Debris from Coastal Storms

Beyond named hurricanes, Myrtle Beach experiences frequent unnamed coastal storms with wind gusts exceeding 50-60 mph. These "nor'easters" and coastal low-pressure systems occur throughout the year and generate significant debris. Pine trees drop branches, construction sites lose materials, and everyday objects become airborne.

Impact resistant shingles provide year-round protection against this debris. The same technology that stops 2-inch hail also resists smaller branches, roof-walking by squirrels and birds, and the occasional errant golf ball from nearby courses. This ongoing protection extends roof lifespan and maintains appearance between major storms.

Hurricane Zone

SC coastline in direct Atlantic hurricane path with 6-month annual storm season

Severe Storms

4-6 hail events per year with potential for golf ball-sized or larger hail

Debris Risk

Heavy tree canopy and coastal winds create constant debris exposure

Coastal Climate Degradation

Salt air, high humidity (averaging 70-80%), intense UV exposure, and thermal cycling from hot summers to mild winters create a harsh environment for roofing materials. Standard asphalt shingles degrade 25-30% faster on the coast compared to inland locations. The SBS polymers in impact resistant shingles resist all these degradation mechanisms, providing the longer service life that justifies their premium pricing.

South Carolina Insurance Discounts for Class 4 Shingles

One of the most compelling financial arguments for impact resistant shingles is the substantial insurance premium discounts available to South Carolina homeowners. These discounts, ranging from 10-28% depending on your insurer and policy, can offset the additional cost of Class 4 shingles within just a few years while providing ongoing savings for the life of your roof.

Understanding Insurance Premium Reductions

Insurance companies calculate premiums based on risk—specifically, the likelihood that they will pay claims on your property. Roof damage represents one of the largest claim categories for homeowners insurance, with hail and wind damage accounting for billions of dollars annually in the southeastern United States. By installing Class 4 impact resistant shingles, you reduce the probability of filing roof-related claims, and insurers reward this risk reduction with premium discounts.

Typical SC Insurance Discount Ranges

Class 4 Impact Resistance

10-28%

Premium reduction for UL 2218 Class 4 certified roofing

Annual Savings Example

$200-$500+

Based on average SC coastal homeowner premium of $2,000-$3,500

Factors That Influence Your Discount

The exact discount you receive depends on several factors specific to your policy and insurer:

  • Insurance Company Policy: Different insurers offer different discount structures. Some provide flat percentages, while others tier discounts based on the complete roofing system (impact resistance + wind rating + installation method).
  • Geographic Location: Homes in high-risk coastal areas like Myrtle Beach often qualify for larger discounts because the baseline risk is higher. Reducing that risk provides greater actuarial value to the insurer.
  • Complete Roofing System: Additional wind mitigation features like enhanced underlayment, ring-shank nailing patterns, and roof-to-wall connections can stack additional discounts on top of the Class 4 impact resistance discount.
  • Documentation Quality: Insurers require proof of Class 4 installation. Complete documentation including manufacturer certificates, UL certification numbers, and licensed contractor installation records ensures you receive the maximum available discount.

How to Claim Your Discount

The process for claiming your insurance discount typically involves these steps:

  1. Contact your insurance company before installation to understand their specific requirements and potential discount amounts.
  2. Choose a Class 4 UL 2218 certified product from a recognized manufacturer (GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, Atlas).
  3. Have the roof installed by a licensed contractor who provides complete documentation of materials and installation.
  4. Submit documentation to your insurer including manufacturer product data sheets, UL certification information, and contractor installation certificate.
  5. Request a policy review to apply the discount effective from the installation date.

Weather Shield Documentation Package

Every Class 4 impact resistant shingle installation from Weather Shield Roofing includes a complete insurance documentation package at no additional charge. This package contains manufacturer product specifications, UL 2218 Class 4 certification documentation, installation completion certificate with materials list, and before/after photography for your records.

We also provide guidance on contacting your insurance company and can speak directly with your agent if needed to ensure you receive every discount you are entitled to receive.

Long-Term Financial Impact

Consider a typical scenario: A homeowner pays $2,500 annually for homeowners insurance on a Myrtle Beach property. Installing Class 4 shingles earns a 15% discount, saving $375 per year. Over the 25-30 year lifespan of the shingles, total insurance savings reach $9,375-$11,250—often exceeding the entire premium paid for upgrading to impact resistant shingles.

This calculation does not include avoided deductibles and repairs from hail damage that would have occurred with standard shingles, nor does it account for the longer service life of impact resistant shingles reducing your lifetime roofing costs.

Top Impact Resistant Shingle Brands for Coastal SC

Choosing the right impact resistant shingle brand involves balancing performance, aesthetics, warranty coverage, and value. Weather Shield Roofing installs all major Class 4 shingle brands and can help you select the optimal product for your specific home and budget. Here is an in-depth look at the top manufacturers and their flagship impact resistant products.

GAF Timberline HDZ with Armor Shield II

North America's #1 Selling Shingle Brand

Key Features

  • StrikeZone nailing area with LayerLock technology
  • Dura Grip adhesive seals in winds up to 130 mph
  • StainGuard Plus algae resistance (25-year limited warranty)
  • Available in 20+ color options

Warranty Coverage

  • Lifetime limited warranty (50 years non-prorated)
  • 15-year WindProven limited wind warranty (130 mph)
  • Golden Pledge warranty available through Master Elite contractors

Best For: Homeowners seeking the most recognized brand name with extensive color options and the industry's strongest wind warranty when installed by certified contractors. Weather Shield Roofing is a GAF Master Elite contractor—a status held by only 2% of roofers nationwide.

Owens Corning Duration STORM

Patented SureNail Technology

Key Features

  • SureNail Technology fabric strip provides 30% better grip
  • Triple Layer Protection in nailing zone
  • StreakGuard algae resistance protection
  • TruDefinition color technology for depth and dimension

Warranty Coverage

  • Lifetime limited warranty
  • 130 mph wind warranty (enhanced nailing required)
  • 10-year algae resistance warranty

Best For: Homeowners prioritizing installation quality assurance. The visible SureNail strip provides instant verification that each shingle is nailed in the optimal location, reducing installer error and maximizing wind resistance.

CertainTeed Landmark IR

Impact Resistant with NailTrak Technology

Key Features

  • NailTrak nailing guide ensures proper placement
  • Quad-Layer construction for maximum durability
  • StreakFighter algae resistance in all colors
  • Max Def color technology for rich appearance

Warranty Coverage

  • Lifetime limited warranty
  • 110 mph wind resistance standard (130 mph with enhanced nailing)
  • SureStart protection for first 10 years

Best For: Homeowners seeking a balance of premium features and value. CertainTeed offers excellent color variety and the Landmark line has been a trusted name in roofing for decades.

Atlas StormMaster Shake

Scotchgard Protector from 3M

Key Features

  • Core4 polymer-modified asphalt technology
  • Scotchgard Protector prevents algae and moss
  • HP42 high-profile design for dimensional appearance
  • 130 mph wind rating standard

Warranty Coverage

  • Lifetime limited warranty
  • 130 mph wind warranty included
  • Lifetime algae resistance warranty

Best For: Homeowners prioritizing algae and moss resistance in humid coastal climates. The Scotchgard technology is particularly effective in Myrtle Beach's high-humidity environment, maintaining appearance longer than competing products.

Brand Selection Guidance

All four brands manufacture excellent Class 4 impact resistant shingles suitable for Myrtle Beach homes. The choice often comes down to specific color preferences, contractor relationships, and warranty preferences. Weather Shield Roofing can provide samples and detailed comparisons during your free consultation. We will help you understand the subtle differences and select the product that best matches your home's style and your protection priorities.

For comprehensive protection, consider pairing impact resistant shingles with our full roof replacement service, which includes enhanced underlayment, proper ventilation, and expert installation that maximizes both product performance and warranty coverage.

Impact Resistant vs Standard Shingles: Complete Comparison

Understanding the differences between impact resistant and standard asphalt shingles helps justify the investment in premium protection. While both products look similar and use asphalt as their primary waterproofing material, the engineering differences create dramatically different performance outcomes over time.

FeatureStandard Architectural ShinglesClass 4 Impact Resistant
Hail ResistanceDamage from 1" hailSurvives 2"+ hail
Asphalt TypeOxidized asphalt (brittle)SBS polymer-modified (flexible)
Typical Lifespan (Coastal SC)15-20 years25-30 years
Insurance DiscountNone typical10-28% premium reduction
Wind Rating60-90 mph typical110-130 mph typical
Granule Retention After ImpactSignificant lossMinimal loss
Flexibility in ColdBecomes brittle below 40°FRemains flexible to 0°F
Thermal Cycling ResistanceModerateExcellent
Relative CostBaseline+15-25% premium

Beyond the Numbers: Real-World Performance Differences

The comparison table shows specifications, but real-world performance reveals even greater advantages for impact resistant shingles. Consider what happens during a typical Myrtle Beach severe thunderstorm:

Standard Shingles During a Storm

When 1.5-inch hail pelts a standard architectural shingle roof, each impact creates micro-fractures in the brittle oxidized asphalt. Granules loosen and wash away in subsequent rain. These weak points become entry points for moisture, leading to accelerated aging, wood rot underneath, and eventual leaks. The damage is often invisible immediately after the storm but manifests over the following months and years as premature roof failure.

Impact Resistant Shingles During the Same Storm

The same hail impacts a Class 4 roof and the flexible SBS asphalt absorbs the energy, deforming momentarily before returning to its original shape. No cracks form. Granules remain firmly bonded to the surface. After the storm passes, the roof looks and performs exactly as it did before. No moisture intrusion points exist. No accelerated aging occurs. The roof continues toward its full 25-30 year service life uninterrupted.

The Hidden Cost of Standard Shingles

Standard shingles appear less expensive initially, but hidden costs accumulate over time. Consider a 20-year ownership period with typical Myrtle Beach weather exposure:

  • Roof Replacement: Standard shingles may need replacement at year 15-18 in coastal conditions, while Class 4 shingles continue performing.
  • Storm Repairs: Each hail event may require inspection, potential repairs, and insurance deductible payments.
  • Insurance Premiums: No discount on the baseline premium throughout the roof's life.
  • Interior Damage: Even minor leaks from compromised shingles can cause ceiling stains, mold growth, and insulation damage.

When these factors are calculated into the true cost of ownership, impact resistant shingles often prove less expensive over their lifecycle despite the higher initial investment.

Cost Analysis and ROI for Coastal South Carolina

Smart homeowners evaluate roofing decisions based on total cost of ownership rather than upfront price alone. Impact resistant shingles require a larger initial investment but deliver substantial returns through insurance savings, extended service life, and avoided repairs. This analysis examines the real financial picture for Myrtle Beach homeowners.

Initial Investment Comparison

Class 4 impact resistant shingles typically cost 15-25% more than comparable standard architectural shingles. For a typical 2,000 square foot Myrtle Beach home with a 25-square roof (2,500 sq ft of roof surface), this translates to approximately $1,500-$3,000 additional cost depending on the specific products compared.

25-Year Cost of Ownership Analysis

Standard Architectural Shingles

Initial Installation$12,000
Replacement at Year 18$14,500
Storm Repairs (3 events)$2,400
Insurance (no discount)$0 savings
25-Year Total$28,900

Class 4 Impact Resistant

Initial Installation$14,500
No Replacement Needed$0
Storm Repairs$0
Insurance Savings (15%)-$9,375
25-Year Total$5,125

25-Year Savings with Impact Resistant Shingles: $23,775

Based on typical Myrtle Beach conditions, 15% insurance discount, and average storm exposure

Breaking Down the ROI Components

Insurance Premium Savings

The most quantifiable benefit is the insurance premium discount. Using conservative estimates: a $2,500 annual premium with a 15% discount saves $375 per year. Over 25 years, this totals $9,375 in documented savings. Homeowners with higher premiums or larger discounts see proportionally greater returns.

Extended Service Life

Standard architectural shingles in coastal South Carolina typically require replacement at 15-20 years due to accelerated weathering from salt air, humidity, and UV exposure. Class 4 shingles reliably perform for 25-30 years. Avoiding a mid-cycle replacement saves $14,000-$18,000 in today's dollars, plus the significant inconvenience of a second roofing project.

Avoided Repair Costs

Over a 25-year period, a standard shingle roof in Myrtle Beach will likely sustain hail damage from 3-5 significant storms. Each event potentially requires inspection, repairs, and deductible payment. Even if insurance covers most repairs, deductibles typically range from $500-$2,500 per event. Impact resistant shingles eliminate these costs entirely by preventing the damage in the first place.

Home Value and Marketability

While harder to quantify, impact resistant roofing adds value when selling your home. Buyers, particularly those relocating from outside hurricane zones, actively seek storm-resistant features. A recently installed Class 4 roof with documented insurance discounts can be a significant selling point, potentially adding 1-3% to sale price and reducing time on market.

Important Cost Note: This analysis does not include specific material or labor pricing.

Actual costs vary based on roof complexity, material selection, and market conditions. Contact Weather Shield Roofing for a detailed quote tailored to your specific home.

Impact Resistant Shingle Installation Process

Proper installation is essential to realizing the full potential of impact resistant shingles. The most advanced Class 4 shingle will underperform if installed incorrectly. Weather Shield Roofing follows manufacturer specifications precisely, ensuring your investment delivers maximum protection and warranty coverage.

1

Comprehensive Roof Inspection

Before any work begins, our team conducts a thorough inspection of your existing roof structure. We evaluate deck condition, ventilation adequacy, flashing integrity, and structural soundness. Any issues identified must be addressed before new shingles are installed to ensure optimal performance and warranty compliance.

  • Attic inspection for ventilation and moisture
  • Deck integrity assessment
  • Measurement and material calculation
2

Complete Tear-Off and Deck Preparation

We remove all existing roofing materials down to the deck, never installing over old shingles. This exposes the deck for inspection and repair, ensures proper underlayment adhesion, and maintains manufacturer warranty requirements. Any damaged decking is replaced with code-compliant OSB or plywood.

  • Complete removal of old shingles and underlayment
  • Deck repair or replacement as needed
  • Debris cleanup and magnetic nail sweep
3

Ice and Water Shield Installation

Self-adhering ice and water shield membrane is installed in critical areas: valleys, eaves (minimum 24" past interior wall), around penetrations, and along rake edges. This provides a secondary waterproof barrier that protects against wind-driven rain and ice dam leaks even if shingles are compromised.

  • Full valley coverage with self-adhering membrane
  • Eave protection extending past interior walls
  • Penetration sealing for pipes and vents
4

Synthetic Underlayment Application

Premium synthetic underlayment covers the entire roof surface over ice and water shield areas. Synthetic underlayment offers superior tear resistance, UV stability during installation, and better waterproofing than traditional felt paper. We use cap-nail fastening to maintain weather-tightness.

  • Full deck coverage with proper overlap
  • Cap-nail installation for secure attachment
  • Wrinkle-free application for smooth shingle surface
5

Drip Edge and Flashing Installation

New drip edge is installed at all eaves and rakes to direct water into gutters and protect fascia boards. Step flashing, counter flashing, and pipe boots are installed or replaced as needed. Proper flashing installation is critical for preventing water intrusion at roof transitions and penetrations.

  • Code-compliant drip edge at all edges
  • Step flashing at wall intersections
  • New pipe boots and vent flashings
6

Impact Resistant Shingle Installation

Starting with high-wind starter strips, our certified installers apply your Class 4 shingles following manufacturer specifications precisely. This includes proper nailing patterns (6 nails per shingle in high-wind zones), correct nail placement in the designated nailing zone, and offset patterns for optimal wind resistance.

  • High-wind rated starter strips
  • 6-nail pattern for enhanced wind resistance
  • Proper offset and alignment throughout
7

Ridge Ventilation and Hip/Ridge Caps

Proper ventilation extends roof life significantly. We install ridge vent systems that work with soffit vents to create balanced attic airflow. Impact resistant hip and ridge cap shingles complete the installation, providing protection at the most vulnerable roof transitions.

  • Ridge vent for balanced attic ventilation
  • High-profile hip and ridge cap shingles
  • Hand-sealed in high-wind applications
8

Final Inspection and Documentation

Every installation undergoes a comprehensive final inspection by our project supervisor. We verify proper nailing, seal adhesion, flashing integrity, and overall workmanship. Upon approval, you receive complete documentation including warranty registration, insurance certification documents, and maintenance guidelines.

  • Multi-point quality inspection
  • Complete documentation package
  • Warranty registration assistance

The installation process typically requires 1-3 days depending on roof size and complexity. We coordinate closely with you to minimize disruption while maintaining the quality standards that ensure your impact resistant shingles perform as engineered.

Frequently Asked Questions About Impact Resistant Shingles

What are impact resistant shingles and how do they differ from standard shingles?+
Impact resistant shingles are specially engineered asphalt shingles designed to withstand impact from hail, falling debris, and wind-driven objects. They use advanced polymer-modified asphalt, SBS (Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene) rubber modifiers, and reinforced fiberglass mats that absorb impact energy without cracking or losing granules. Standard 3-tab or architectural shingles can crack from 1-inch hail, while Class 4 impact resistant shingles survive 2-inch hail impacts without damage. The key difference is in the flexibility and durability of the materials used.
What does Class 4 impact resistance mean?+
Class 4 is the highest impact resistance rating under UL 2218 testing standards. The test involves dropping a 2-inch diameter steel ball from 20 feet onto the shingle surface. To achieve Class 4 certification, the shingle must show no cracking, splitting, or fracturing after two direct impacts in the same location. Class 1 uses a 1.25-inch ball, Class 2 uses 1.5-inch, Class 3 uses 1.75-inch, and Class 4 uses the full 2-inch ball. Only Class 4 shingles provide maximum protection against severe hail common in South Carolina storms.
How much can I save on insurance with impact resistant shingles in South Carolina?+
South Carolina homeowners can save 10-28% on their homeowners insurance premiums by installing Class 4 impact resistant shingles. The exact discount varies by insurance company and your specific policy. Some insurers offer flat percentage discounts (typically 10-15%), while others provide tiered savings based on the entire roofing system including wind ratings and installation methods. Contact your insurance company before installation to document potential savings and ensure proper certification paperwork.
Which brands make the best impact resistant shingles for Myrtle Beach?+
The top impact resistant shingle brands for coastal South Carolina include GAF Timberline HDZ with Armor Shield II technology, Owens Corning Duration STORM with SureNail Technology, CertainTeed Landmark IR with Algae Resistant technology, and Atlas StormMaster Shake with Scotchgard Protector. All are Class 4 UL 2218 certified. For Myrtle Beach specifically, we recommend shingles with algae resistance due to our humid climate. Each brand offers excellent warranties ranging from 25 years to lifetime coverage.
Do impact resistant shingles protect against hurricane damage?+
Yes, impact resistant shingles provide significant hurricane protection beyond just hail resistance. During hurricanes, wind-driven debris causes tremendous roof damage. Class 4 shingles resist impact from flying branches, lawn furniture, and construction materials. Most Class 4 shingles also carry enhanced wind ratings of 110-130 mph because the same polymer modifications that provide impact resistance also improve flexibility and nail adhesion. However, for maximum hurricane protection, combine impact resistant shingles with proper installation techniques including 6-nail patterns and enhanced underlayment.
How long do impact resistant shingles last compared to regular shingles?+
Impact resistant shingles typically last 25-30 years in coastal South Carolina compared to 15-20 years for standard architectural shingles. The SBS rubber modifiers that provide impact resistance also make the shingles more flexible and resistant to thermal cycling, UV degradation, and moisture damage. This extended lifespan, combined with insurance savings of 10-28% annually and avoided storm damage repairs, makes impact resistant shingles highly cost-effective despite higher upfront costs.
Are impact resistant shingles worth the extra cost?+
Yes, impact resistant shingles provide excellent return on investment for Myrtle Beach homeowners. While they cost 15-25% more than standard shingles upfront, the financial benefits include: insurance premium discounts of 10-28% annually (often $200-500+ per year), 5-10 year longer lifespan, fewer emergency repairs after storms, maintained granule coverage for better appearance, and higher resale value. Over 20 years, the total savings typically exceed the additional upfront cost by 2-3 times.
What is the UL 2218 testing standard for impact resistance?+
UL 2218 is the standardized test method developed by Underwriters Laboratories to classify roofing material impact resistance. The test drops steel balls of varying sizes onto roofing samples from 20 feet to simulate hail impact. A Class 1 rating uses a 1.25-inch ball (simulating 1-inch hail), Class 2 uses 1.5-inch, Class 3 uses 1.75-inch, and Class 4 uses a 2-inch ball (simulating golf ball to baseball sized hail). Shingles must show no cracks, tears, or fractures after two impacts in the same spot to pass each class level.
Can impact resistant shingles be installed over existing roofing?+
While technically possible in some cases, we strongly recommend against installing impact resistant shingles over existing roofing. A tear-off allows proper inspection and repair of the roof deck, installation of premium synthetic underlayment, and correct fastening patterns essential for warranty coverage. Installing over old shingles can void manufacturer warranties, reduce shingle lifespan by 20-30%, and compromise the impact resistance properties. The investment in Class 4 shingles deserves proper installation.
How do I verify my shingles are truly Class 4 impact resistant?+
Look for UL 2218 Class 4 certification on the shingle packaging and manufacturer specifications. Legitimate products display the UL certification mark with the specific class rating. Request the manufacturer's ICC-ES evaluation report number for verification. Your roofing contractor should provide documentation showing the specific product installed, and this documentation is required for insurance discounts. Beware of terms like "impact resistant" without the specific Class 4 UL 2218 certification, as these may not qualify for insurance discounts.

Protect Your Myrtle Beach Home with Class 4 Impact Resistant Shingles

Stop worrying about hail storms, hurricane debris, and expensive roof repairs. Weather Shield Roofing provides expert Class 4 impact resistant shingle installation throughout the Grand Strand. Get maximum protection, insurance discounts, and peace of mind.

Class 4 Certified

UL 2218 tested and certified impact resistant products from top manufacturers

Insurance Savings

10-28% premium discounts with complete documentation package included

Expert Installation

GAF Master Elite certified with manufacturer warranty protection

Serving Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Conway, Carolina Forest, Surfside Beach, Garden City, Murrells Inlet, Pawleys Island, Little River, and surrounding areas.