Roof Shingle Ratings: What Are They and Why Do They Matter?

Posted on by Braden Barnes

Your roof is a crucial element in your home. It protects you from wind, hail, snow, cold, and heat. However, repairing or replacing a roof can be quite the process, which is why it requires proper planning and selecting of quality roofing materials to avoid headaches and the possibility of losing money.

When it comes to roofing materials, shingle roofing is one of the more popular materials among homeowners. It’s preferred since it’s cost-effective and relatively easy to install. Shingle roofs are sturdy and most of them have a Class A fire-resistance rating. Some can also withstand harsh weather conditions.

There are different factors to consider when selecting the best shingle roofing material based on your situation. One such consideration is the shingle rating for fire, wind and hail. Learn more about what different shingle ratings mean.

What Does a Shingle Rating Mean?

For Colorado, it’s important to have the right roofing material to withstand high wind events and hailstorms. Roofing experts have been manufacturing superb quality roofing shingles that are resistant to harsh weather conditions such as strong winds and hail. There are also fire-resistant shingles to control the impact of fire breakouts.

Why Does a Shingle Rating Matter?

Understanding your roofing shingle ratings helps you determine how safe your property is in case of a disaster such as storms or fires. Always consider the roof rating to evaluate whether a roofing material is a good option based on where you live. Installing a top-rated shingle roofing can instill a peace of mind.

What Are the Top-Rated Roofing Shingles?

When looking for suitable roofing material for your home or business, you can narrow your search with hints on the top-rated roofing shingles available in the market. Below are the top three roofing shingle brands according to Consumer Reports reviews:

  1. GAF Aromoshield II: This shingle has a Class A fire rating, it has a Class 4 Impact Resistance rating and can withstand winds of up to 150 mph. It’s long-lasting, durable, and comes in a variety of colors and comes with a 50-year warranty.

  2. Owens Corning Duration Storm: These shingles also have a Class A rating and withstand winds of up to 150 mph. As well a Class 4 hail rating. It has a strong foundation to help resist cracking and splitting. It comes with a 25-year limited transferable warranty.

  3. CertainTeed Landmark IR: These roofing shingles are high-quality and is available in 44 different colors. It’s also backed by a 100+ year legacy of trusted manufacturing performance and comes with a lifetime-limited warranty. This shingle has a class A Fire Rating and a Class 4 Impact Rating, that is what the IR stands for in the name

Although good shingles are expensive, they are worth the price since they are long lasting. Work with a trusted roofing contractor to help you select the right material based on what makes the most sense for your home.

What Are the Different Types of Roofing Shingles?

Here is a list of some of the most popular roofing shingles available:

  • Asphalt shingles: Most developers and homeowners opt for asphalt shingles due to their long-lasting nature. In fact, some of them can last for over five decades. Their lifespan is between 15-40 years.

  • Wood shingles: Wood shingles are derived from materials such as yellow pine and cedar. They are attractive and can last for 25 to 30 years.

  • Wood shakes: Wood shakes are highly resistant to the ultraviolet rays of the sun. They are thick and have a lifespan of 35-40 years.

  • Metal shingles: These shingles are popular due to their fire-resistance properties. A metal roof is highly durable and long-lasting.

  • Clay shingles: Clay shingles can last for up to ten years if well maintained. They are popular since they are aesthetically appealing and eye-catching.

What Are the Different Types of Ratings?

The effectiveness of your roofing shingles relies on their rating. Here are a couple types of ratings to consider if you live in Colorado:

  • Wind Rating
    When selecting the right roofing shingles for your Colorado home or business, we recommend going for those with a high wind rating. Wind-rated shingles offer high protection from snow, rain and wind, and other destructive weather elements. Keep in mind that shingles have varying wind ratings. For extremely stormy environments, purchase roofing shingles with higher wind ratings since they can resist high winds.

  • Fire Rating
    Roof fire ratings fall into four categories: Class A, B, C, and D. Whether you want to upgrade your roof or you are building your new home, here are a few tips on roof fire ratings to help you when selecting the right roofing materials:

    • Class A: This is the highest roofing shingles rating, and it’s best for people who live in areas that are prime target for wildfires. This kind of roof can withstand severe fire exposure.
    • Class B: This rating is best for protection against moderate fires. They can withstand up to around hour without burning.
    • Class C: This offers protection against light fire exposure. A Class C rating can withstand fire for up to around 20 minutes before burning.
    • Unrated: This kind of roofing does not offer protection against fires. Most building codes do not approve of the use of unrated roofing material.

  • Hail Rating
    Underwriters Laboratories (UL) provides ratings for impact resistant of a shingles with a test called the UL 2218 Impact Rating. A rating is earned when the test sample does not crack when hit twice in the same spot by a hail stone of a certain size. Hail ratings fall into mainly 2 categories: Class 3 or 4.
    • Class 3 – 1.75” diameter steel ball dropped from 20 ft.
    • Class 4 – 2.00” diameter steel ball dropped from 20 ft.

Closing Remarks

The most suitable roofing shingles for your property should depend on various factors, one of which being the roof shingle rating. To determine the best ratings, consider your local weather and firebreak out risk. Your budget and aesthetic preferences are also worth considering. For Colorado residents, select shingles that can withstand harsh winter conditions and regular hailstorms.

However, having the best roofing shingles isn’t enough. Working with a skilled roofing contractor can help you in selecting the right roofing material based on your individual home’s needs. At Axe Roofing, we are a locally owned and operated roofing company. We know what homeowners and business owners are up against in this area. Contact us today and let us help you with your roofing project.