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.
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.
Impact resistance ratings range from Class 1 to Class 4, with Class 4 offering the highest level of durability.
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.
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.
A variety of roofing materials are available with Class 3 or Class 4 impact ratings. These include:
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
Still not sure whether Class 3 or Class 4 is right for you? Here are a few guiding questions:
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.
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