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Impact-resistant (IR) shingles are a must-have in areas known for hail damage — like Oklahoma, Texas, and Colorado. Some shingles are specially designed to resist hail damage in particular — like Class 4 impact-resistant roofing shingles, which have the highest impact-resistant capability.

Impact-resistant shingles are usually made by adding polymers to the asphalt mixture during the manufacturing process. One common option is styrene-butadiene-styrene, or SBS, which rubberizes the shingle, making it both more flexible and more resistant to impact-based damage. A Class 4 certification from Underwriters Laboratories (UL) indicates the shingles are able to resist impacts similar to large hail. You may be familiar with the organization from reading the labels on some of your household electrical items. Commonly known as the steel ball test and officially called Underwriters Laboratories 2218, the UL test involves dropping 2-inch steel balls on the roofing multiple times from a height of 20 feet. If the shingle has no breaks or cracks in it afterward, it receives a Class 4 rating, which is the highest rating available. Class 4 is the roofing industry standard for impact-resistant shingles, so be sure the shingles you plan to use are Class 4 if impact resistance is a concern in your area.

Replacing your roofing system and interested in impact resistant materials? Here are some of the key advantages:

1. Enhanced Protection: Impact-resistant shingles are designed to withstand the impact of hail, wind-blown debris, and other objects that may strike the roof during severe weather events. They are more resistant to damage compared to standard shingles, which helps protect the underlying structure of the home.
2. Increased Durability: These shingles are typically made with stronger and more robust materials, such as polymer-modified asphalt or fiberglass, which make them more durable than regular shingles. They can withstand greater stress, minimizing the risk of cracking, tearing, or breaking.
3. Longevity: Impact-resistant shingles often have a longer lifespan than traditional shingles. Their enhanced durability and resistance to damage mean they can endure harsh weather conditions for an extended period. This longevity can save homeowners money in the long run, as they may not need to replace their roof as frequently.
4. Insurance Benefits: Many insurance companies offer discounts or reduced premiums for homes with impact-resistant shingles. This is because these shingles provide a higher level of protection against damage, reducing the likelihood of expensive insurance claims resulting from severe weather events. Installing impact-resistant shingles may lead to cost savings on insurance premiums over time.
5. Improved Property Value: Impact-resistant shingles are considered an attractive feature for potential homebuyers. They provide peace of mind to buyers by offering increased protection and durability. Having impact-resistant shingles installed can enhance the overall value of a property, making it more appealing in the real estate market.
6. Noise Reduction: Due to their construction, impact-resistant shingles tend to have better sound insulation properties compared to standard shingles. This can help reduce exterior noise, such as the sound of rain or hail hitting the roof, creating a more comfortable living environment for homeowners.

It’s important to note that while impact-resistant shingles offer additional protection, no roofing material can guarantee complete resistance against all types of damage. However, they significantly improve a roof’s ability to withstand impacts and minimize the extent of potential damage.

Roof replacements are usually completed in 1 day unless you have a specialty roofing system or a larger or steeper than usual roofing system. Our goal is to have your new roof installed as quickly as possible without sacrificing any quality, so discuss the estimated timeline with your project manager for confirmation.

Here are some questions you can ask your insurance carrier to ensure you have the lowest out-of-pocket expenses in the event of a hailstorm:

1. What is my deductible for hail damage, and can I adjust it to lower my out-of-pocket expenses in the event that I need to file a claim?
2. Does my policy cover full replacement value, or only actual cash value, for hail damage?
3. Are there any coverage exclusions or limitations that apply specifically to hail damage?- How much extra does it cost me to add replacement cost coverage to all my property?
4. Does my policy cover damage to the entire property or only specific parts, such as the roof or siding?
5. Are there any discounts or incentives available to help me reduce my premium costs, such as a hail-resistant roof or storm shutters?
6. What is the claims process for hail damage, and how can I ensure that I receive the maximum reimbursement for my losses?
7. Are there any preventative measures I can take to reduce the risk of hail damage, and will taking those measures impact my insurance rates?

By asking these questions, you can ensure that you have the right coverage in place and take steps to minimize your out-of-pocket expenses in the event of a hailstorm.

ACV (Actual Cash Value) and RCV (Replacement Cost Value) are two types of insurance policies that differ in how they calculate payouts for covered losses. ACV policies factor in depreciation, meaning they pay out the current value of the damaged property, taking into account age and wear. RCV policies, on the other hand, cover the cost of replacing the damaged property with a new item of similar kind and quality, without considering depreciation. ACV policies may result in lower payouts due to depreciation, while RCV policies provide coverage for the full cost of replacement, often resulting in higher payouts but potentially with higher premiums.

In the event of an insurance claim, you typically pay your deductible directly to the contractor or service provider who is repairing or replacing the damaged property. The deductible amount is subtracted from the total claim amount that your insurance company will pay.

Here’s a general overview of how the payment process usually works:

1. File a Claim: Contact your insurance company to report the claim as soon as possible after the incident occurs. They will guide you through the claim process and provide instructions on what documentation is needed.
2. Claim Evaluation: An adjuster from your insurance company will assess the damage, evaluate the claim, and determine the covered amount for repairs or replacement.
3. Deductible Calculation: The insurance company will subtract your deductible amount from the total claim value. For example, if your claim is approved for $5,000 and your deductible is $1,000, you would receive a payment of $4,000.
4. Payment Arrangement: You will be responsible for paying the deductible directly to the contractor or service provider who is performing the repairs or replacement. The insurance company will provide you with the necessary information to facilitate this payment.
5. Insurance Reimbursement: If you have a Replacement Cost Value (RCV) insurance policy, after you pay your deductible and the work is completed, the insurance company will release the remaining funds owed to you for the approved claim amount, which is typically paid directly to you.

It’s important to note that the specific procedures and payment methods may vary depending on your insurance company and the terms outlined in your policy. It’s recommended to consult with your insurance provider to confirm their standard operating procedure and clarify any questions you may have regarding deductible payments during the claims process.