What Is a Class 3 and Class 4 Impact-Rated Roof?

In Colorado, hailstorms aren’t just a seasonal inconvenience. They’re a serious threat to the lifespan of your roof. That’s why many property owners are turning to impact-rated roofing systems set up by professional roofing companies in Colorado, especially those designed to stand up to severe weather. However, when shopping for new roofing materials, you may come across terms like “Class 3” or “Class 4” impact ratings and not fully understand what they mean.

In this guide, we’ll break down what impact ratings are, how Class 3 and Class 4 shingles differ, and how to choose the right level of protection for your home or commercial property.

What Does “Impact Rated” Mean for Roofing?

The term “impact rated” refers to a roofing product’s ability to withstand physical impact from objects like hailstones or debris without cracking, breaking, or losing protective granules. Impact ratings are assigned by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and are based on a standardized test called UL 2218.

During this test, a steel ball is dropped from specific heights onto roofing materials to simulate the effect of hail. The product is then evaluated for visible cracking, denting, and granule loss.

Understanding the UL 2218 Impact Resistance Ratings

Impact resistance ratings range from Class 1 to Class 4, with Class 4 offering the highest level of durability.

Class 1

• Withstands a 1.25-inch steel ball dropped from 12 feet
• Lowest resistance to hail and debris

Class 2

• Withstands a 1.5-inch steel ball dropped from 15 feet

Class 3

• Withstands a 1.75-inch steel ball dropped from 17 feet
• Offers moderate hail resistance

Class 4

• Withstands a 2-inch steel ball dropped from 20 feet
• Highest available rating for impact resistance
• Designed to resist cracking, bruising, or granule loss

For hail-prone regions like Colorado, Class 4 impact-rated roofing is often the preferred choice, especially for properties that want to minimize future damage, insurance claims, and costly repairs.

Class 3 vs. Class 4 Roofing: What’s the Difference?

At a glance, Class 3 and Class 4 impact-rated roofing products may look similar. However, there are a few key differences that can affect your roof’s performance during a storm.

Feature	Class 3 Impact Rating	Class 4 Impact Rating
Steel Ball Drop	1.75″ ball from 17 feet	2″ ball from 20 feet
Hail Resistance	Good	Excellent
Material Durability	Moderate	Highest
Cost	Lower upfront	Higher upfront, longer lifespan
Insurance Discounts	Sometimes	Often qualifies for premium discounts

While both ratings provide more protection than standard roofing materials, Class 4 is the gold standard for hail-prone areas.

What Roofing Materials Are Impact Rated?

A variety of roofing materials are available with Class 3 or Class 4 impact ratings. These include:

Asphalt Shingles

• Many major manufacturers now offer impact-resistant asphalt shingles with reinforced backing.
• Class 4 shingles are engineered to resist granule loss and cracking from hail.
• Some brands use polymer blends or rubber-modified asphalt to increase durability.
• Metal Roofing
• Metal roofs often earn a Class 4 rating due to their toughness.
• While they may dent under extreme hail, they typically don’t crack or lose structural integrity.
• Excellent option for both residential and commercial properties.

Synthetic Roofing Materials

• Products like composite shingles or rubber roofing systems are often impact-rated to Class 4.
• Designed to mimic wood shake, slate, or tile while offering enhanced storm resistance.

Why Impact Ratings Matter in Colorado

If you’re a property owner in Westminster, Broomfield, Arvada, or anywhere along Colorado’s Front Range, you’re already familiar with our state’s frequent and damaging hailstorms.

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, Colorado ranks among the top states for hail damage claims every year. That makes impact resistance not just a nice feature—it’s a smart investment.

Benefits of an Impact-Rated Roof:

• Reduces risk of damage during hail events
• Can lower long-term maintenance and repair costs
• Often qualifies for discounts on homeowners’ insurance
• Increases property value and buyer appeal
• Offers peace of mind when the next storm rolls in

Reliable Roofing installs both Class 3 and Class 4 impact-rated systems and can help you compare the benefits based on your property, budget, and risk tolerance.

Can an Impact-Rated Roof Still Be Damaged?

Yes. No roofing system is completely hail-proof. Even Class 4 roofs can suffer cosmetic damage, like minor dents or dings. However, what sets Class 4 systems apart is their ability to:

• Maintain structural integrity
• Keep water out
• Preserve granules that protect against UV degradation
• Extend the roof’s lifespan even after a storm

Even with an impact-rated roof, scheduling a professional inspection after any major hail event is still important. Some damage may not be visible from the ground but could compromise the system over time.

Does Insurance Cover Impact-Rated Roofing?

Yes. In fact, many insurance providers offer discounts or incentives for installing Class 4 impact-resistant roofs. These discounts vary by company, so it’s worth checking with your provider before making a decision.

Additionally, if you’re replacing your roof due to storm damage and are already filing a claim, upgrading to an impact-rated material may be a smart out-of-pocket investment that saves you money in the long run.

At Reliable Roofing, we’ll help you understand your coverage, provide documentation for your insurer, and explain upgrade options clearly and honestly.

Choosing the Right Impact-Rated Roof

Still not sure whether Class 3 or Class 4 is right for you? Here are a few guiding questions:

• Do you live in a high-risk hail zone (like the Colorado Front Range)?
• Do you plan to stay in your property long-term?
• Are you looking for the lowest maintenance and longest lifespan?
• Would a small increase in upfront cost be worth reduced repairs and potential insurance savings?
• If the answer is “yes” to any of these, a Class 4 impact-rated roof is likely the better choice.

Protecting Your Roof from the Top Down

Hail is a fact of life in Colorado, but roof damage doesn’t have to be. Choosing an impact-rated roofing system is one of the smartest ways to protect your investment, reduce storm-related stress, and potentially save on insurance premiums.

At Reliable Roofing, we’ve been helping property owners across Westminster, Broomfield, Arvada, and the surrounding Front Range communities make storm-smart choices since 1997. Whether you’re upgrading after a hailstorm or exploring impact-resistant options for new construction, we’re here to help you choose a roofing system that performs when it matters most.

Want to know if your current roof is impact-rated or ready to explore Class 3 or Class 4 options? Contact Reliable Roofing & Restoration Inc. today to schedule a free roof inspection or estimate. We’ll help you compare materials, walk you through your insurance questions, and install a roof that stands up to Colorado’s toughest storms.