Impact Resistant Shingles: Are They Worth It for Minnesota Homeowners?
Minnesota experiences some of the most severe hailstorms in the country. Every year, homeowners deal with damaged shingles, insurance claims, and unexpected roof replacements after spring and summer storms.
If you’re planning a roof replacement, you’ve probably come across terms like impact resistant shingles, Class 4 shingles, and FORTIFIED Home™. While these products have become increasingly popular, many homeowners still aren’t sure what they actually do—or whether they’re worth the additional investment.
At First Impressions Exteriors, we believe that understanding how a roofing system works is just as important as choosing the shingles themselves. That’s why we’re proud to support the FORTIFIED Home™ program, a science-based initiative focused on building stronger, more resilient homes.
What Are Impact Resistant Shingles?
Impact resistant shingles are asphalt shingles engineered to better withstand impacts from hail and wind-blown debris.
Most premium impact resistant shingles receive a Class 4 impact rating, the highest rating available under the UL 2218 testing standard. During testing, steel balls are dropped from varying heights to simulate hail impacts. To achieve a Class 4 rating, the shingles must resist cracking or rupturing under the most demanding test.
It’s important to understand that Class 4 does not mean hail-proof.
A severe hailstorm can still damage any roofing system. However, impact resistant shingles are generally more resistant to damage than standard architectural shingles and may reduce the likelihood of roof repairs after smaller or moderate hail events.
What Is the FORTIFIED Home™ Program?
The FORTIFIED Home™ program was developed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to researching how homes perform during severe weather.
Unlike a roofing product, FORTIFIED is a set of voluntary construction and installation standards designed to improve a home’s ability to withstand:
Hail
High winds
Heavy rain
Hurricanes
Severe thunderstorms
The program focuses on strengthening the home’s most vulnerable areas, with special attention given to the roofing system.
At First Impressions Exteriors, we’re proud to support the goals of the FORTIFIED Home program because they align with the way we believe roofing should be done—using quality materials, proper installation techniques, and attention to detail.
Why Proper Installation Matters
One of the biggest misconceptions is that simply purchasing expensive shingles automatically results in a better roof.
The reality is that a roofing system is made up of dozens of components working together.
A durable roofing system includes:
Proper roof deck attachment
Correct fastener placement
Ice and water barriers installed where required
High-quality synthetic underlayment
Proper flashing around chimneys, walls, skylights, and penetrations
Balanced attic ventilation
Manufacturer-approved installation practices
Even the highest-rated impact resistant shingles cannot perform as intended if they’re installed incorrectly.
This is one of the reasons the FORTIFIED Home program focuses so heavily on installation quality—not just roofing materials.
Benefits of Impact Resistant Shingles
For many homeowners, upgrading to Class 4 shingles offers several potential advantages.
Better Resistance to Hail Damage
The biggest advantage is improved durability during hailstorms. While no roofing product is immune to severe weather, impact resistant shingles are specifically engineered to absorb impacts that might damage traditional asphalt shingles.
Longer Roof Life
Because they’re built with enhanced construction and modified asphalt technology, many impact resistant shingles may better withstand everyday weather exposure over time.
Potential Insurance Discounts
Many insurance companies offer discounts for homes with qualifying Class 4 impact resistant shingles.
Discounts vary by insurance carrier, location, and policy, so homeowners should always check with their insurance agent before making assumptions about savings.
Increased Home Value
Many buyers appreciate knowing a home has a newer, premium roofing system designed to better withstand severe weather.
Are Impact Resistant Shingles Worth the Cost?
For many Minnesota homeowners, the answer is yes.
While impact resistant shingles typically cost more than standard architectural shingles, the additional investment may be worthwhile if you:
Live in an area that frequently experiences hailstorms
Plan to stay in your home for many years
Want the most durable asphalt roofing system available
Qualify for an insurance discount
Prefer reducing the likelihood of future storm damage
Every homeowner’s situation is different, which is why we discuss both the benefits and limitations before making a recommendation.
Our Favorite Impact Resistant Shingles
At First Impressions Exteriors, we install several premium roofing systems, including:
Owens Corning Duration® FLEX®
Malarkey Vista® AR
CertainTeed Landmark ClimateFlex®
GAF Timberline® AS II
Each offers unique advantages depending on your home’s design, budget, and long-term goals. We’ll explain the differences and help you choose the roofing system that best fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are impact resistant shingles hail-proof?
No. No asphalt shingle is completely hail-proof. Class 4 shingles are designed to better resist hail damage, but extremely large hail can still damage any roofing system.
What’s the difference between impact resistant and Class 4 shingles?
Most impact resistant shingles carry a Class 4 impact rating. Class 4 refers to the testing standard used to evaluate a shingle’s resistance to impacts.
Do impact resistant shingles lower insurance premiums?
Many insurance companies offer discounts for qualifying Class 4 shingles, but every carrier has different underwriting guidelines. We recommend contacting your insurance agent to learn what discounts may be available.
Are impact resistant shingles required for FORTIFIED Home certification?
Not necessarily. While impact resistant roofing products may be recommended depending on the home’s location and risk factors, the FORTIFIED Home program primarily focuses on improving how the roofing system is constructed and attached to the home.
Can impact resistant shingles prevent roof replacement after a hailstorm?
No roofing material can guarantee that a roof won’t need replacement after a severe hailstorm. However, impact resistant shingles are designed to better withstand impacts and may reduce damage during many hail events.
Why We Support FORTIFIED Home™
The FORTIFIED Home program reinforces something we’ve believed for years: building a better roof isn’t just about choosing better shingles—it’s about installing an entire roofing system correctly.
That’s why First Impressions Exteriors is proud to support the program and continue educating homeowners about resilient roofing practices.
Whether you’re replacing an aging roof, upgrading to impact resistant shingles, or recovering from hail damage, our goal is to provide honest recommendations and install a roofing system designed to perform for years to come.
Schedule a Free Roof Inspection
If you’re considering impact resistant shingles or recently experienced hail damage, we’d be happy to help.
Our team provides free roof inspections, explains the differences between available roofing systems, and helps homeowners make informed decisions based on their home’s needs—not high-pressure sales tactics.
Contact First Impressions Exteriors today to schedule your free inspection and learn whether impact resistant shingles are the right choice for your home.
