Choosing the right shingles for your home isn’t just about style—it’s about protection. In Calgary, where hail, wind, and heavy snowfall are regular challenges, impact resistance matters. If you’re deciding between Class 3 vs. Class 4 shingles, understanding their performance in harsh weather will help you make a confident, long-lasting choice.
What Are Class Ratings?
Shingles are rated from Class 1 to Class 4 based on impact resistance. This test involves dropping a steel ball from a set height to see how well the shingle material holds up. The higher the class, the more impact it can take without cracking.
Using the standardized UL 2218 test, Class 3 shingles can withstand a 1.75-inch steel ball dropped from a height of 17 feet. Meanwhile, Class 4 shingles, being the highest rating available, can endure a 2-inch steel ball dropped from the same height without showing visible damage.
These tests simulate the kind of impact your roof might experience during a hailstorm—something Calgarians are all too familiar with.
Key Differences: Class 3 vs. Class 4 Shingles
Both shingle types provide solid protection, but here’s how they stack up in the real world:
- Impact Resistance: Class 3 handles moderate hail, while Class 4 is built to resist severe impacts with minimal or no damage.
- Durability: Class 4 shingles typically outlast Class 3—often 30+ years versus 20–25 years.
- Insurance Savings: Some insurers offer discounts for impact-resistant roofs. Class 4 shingles are more likely to qualify for the best rates.
- Upfront Cost: Class 3 shingles are more budget-friendly initially, while Class 4 shingles involve a higher investment—but with better long-term value.
If your goal is maximum protection with fewer future repairs, Class 4 shingles are the superior choice. If budget is your top concern, Class 3 still offers dependable performance.
Why Class 3 vs Class 4 Shingles Matters in Calgary
Calgary is one of Canada’s most hail-prone cities. Year after year, hailstorms cause millions in damage—especially to roofs. Opting for high-impact shingles isn’t just about peace of mind during the next storm. It’s about reducing costly repairs, minimizing insurance claims, and extending the life of your roof.
At Optik Roofing, we’ve seen firsthand how choosing the right shingles can protect your home and save you money over time. We only recommend roofing materials that have been tested for Calgary’s climate and are backed by proven performance.
Class 4 Shingles: A Smart Long-Term Investment
When you weigh protection, lifespan, and potential insurance benefits, Class 4 shingles often come out ahead in the debate between Class 3 vs. Class 4 shingles—especially in Alberta’s unpredictable weather. While the cost is higher up front, the reduced need for repairs and replacements can quickly make up the difference.
Still unsure which is right for you? Our experienced team is happy to walk you through your options and help you choose the best fit for your home and budget.
Calgary Roofing Done Right
Whether you’re replacing storm-damaged shingles or building a new roof from scratch, Optik Roofing delivers expert workmanship and durable materials designed for Calgary’s extreme weather. From Class 3 installations to high-performance Class 4 systems, we’ll make sure your roof is built to last. Whatever you choose when deciding between Class 3 vs. Class 4 shingles, we’ve got you covered.
Contact Optik Roofing today for a personalized quote or expert advice. We’re Calgary’s trusted partner in roofing—focused on quality, reliability, and long-term value.