What is the Most Durable Roofing Material?

A “Class 4 Impact Resistance”, is the highest level of durability that is offered by the Underwriters Laboratories in their industry standardized impact resistance test (UL 2218). However, just because a roofing shingle has a Class 4 rating, it does not mean that it is the best or most durable roofing material available.

Some roofers and product manufactures only cite standard impact ratings when describing the durability of their products and neglect to review the inherent pros and cons of different roofing materials. Thus, some individuals may erroneously think that “X Product” is just as durable as “Y Product” because they both have have been assigned a Class 4 impact rating.

To illustrate the inherent differences between various roofing materials, the following pictures were taken in the same general area following a massive hail and wind storm:

The Stone Coated Steel roofs in this area out-preformed all other roofing materials hit by the storm.

For the ultimate in durability and storm protection, choose a Stone Coated Steel roof manufactured by Unified Steel (Boral), Varitile, Tilcor, or DECRA. Stone Coated Metal is a steel core product that is manufactured to look like asphalt shingles, clay tile, or wood shake.

Composite Polymer roofs made by CeDUR, Brava and DaVinci Roofscapes are also an exceptional choice. Composite Polymer roofs are made from synthetic materials to look like wood shake, clay tile, or stone slate and are the most realistic looking options available.

Most homeowners will never need to replace their roof again if they install a Composite Polymer or Stone Coated Steel roof. Both Stone Coated Steel and Composite Polymer products are more expensive than asphalt shingles, but they are better looking, and total expenditures may be lower when replacement costs, energy savings, and insurance discounts are considered.

Let one of the experts at Roofing Force give you a free estimate and help you choose the most optimal roof for your needs.

Roofing Force is an expert installer of all types of roofing products in Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Oklahoma and Arkansas. Visit our roofing Material Comparison page and Gallery for more information, or give our headquarters a call at (913) 270-5440 and we will direct you to one of our professionals in your area.