If you own a home or commercial property in Houston, you already know the weather can be a little… unpredictable. One week it’s blazing hot, the next you’re watching tree branches fly across the yard in 60 mph winds. And don’t even get me started on hail.
Now, here’s the good news: you don’t have to keep crossing your fingers every time a storm rolls in. A solid solution exists, and it starts with upgrading to impact resistant shingles. In this post, I’ll walk you through the practical benefits of impact resistant shingles, how they hold up to Houston’s climate, and why they might be worth a closer look for your property.
Let’s dig in.
Why Should Houston Homeowners Care About Impact Resistant Shingles?
Houston’s weather is rough on roofs—plain and simple. Hailstorms, hurricanes, and intense UV exposure all team up to wear down traditional asphalt shingles faster than you’d probably expect.
If you’ve already dealt with shingle damage, water leaks, or a post-storm insurance claim, you know the drill—and it’s not fun.
Impact resistant shingles are specifically designed to handle these exact problems. They’re built to last longer and resist damage better than the standard stuff most roofs start with.
Here’s how they can help.
What Are Impact Resistant Shingles, Anyway?
Let’s keep it simple. These shingles look a lot like regular ones, but they’re made with tougher materials like polymer blends, fiberglass, or rubberized asphalt. Think of them as the high-performance version of your basic asphalt shingle.
They’re rated based on how well they handle impacts (like hail), using a scale from Class 1 (the weakest) to Class 4 (the strongest). Class 4 impact resistant shingles can take a solid hit and keep doing their job.
At Fitz Roofing, we install Class 4-rated shingles from top brands like Owens Corning, CertainTeed, and GAF—so you’re getting proven quality, not marketing hype.
Five Practical Benefits of Impact Resistant Shingles
Let’s talk real-world benefits. These aren’t just buzzwords—these are features that can make your life a little easier and your wallet a little heavier over time.
1. Less Damage from Hail and Flying Debris
This one’s a biggie, especially here in Houston. During hailstorms or windy weather, traditional shingles can crack, tear, or lose granules. That kind of damage often leads to leaks or bigger repairs later on.
Impact resistant shingles? They’re built to take a hit without falling apart. You might still get some cosmetic dings, but the roof will stay intact and functional.
Bottom line: fewer repairs and less hassle when the next big storm hits.
2. Possible Insurance Discounts
Some insurance companies offer premium discounts if your home has Class 4 impact resistant shingles. Why? Because your roof is less likely to get damaged—and that means fewer claims for them to pay out.
It’s not guaranteed, so check with your provider first. But it’s definitely worth asking, especially since those savings can add up year after year.
3. Longer Roof Life
Here’s the math: standard asphalt shingles often last 15-20 years in a climate like ours. Impact resistant shingles can last 30 years or more if installed properly.
If you plan to stay in your home for a while—or if you just don’t want to deal with another roof replacement anytime soon—this makes a lot of sense.
4. Stronger Wind Resistance
In addition to hail, many of these upgraded shingles are rated to withstand higher wind speeds. Some can even handle winds up to 130 mph.
So if hurricane season has you constantly worrying about shingles flying off your roof, this is a big step toward peace of mind.
5. They Still Look Great
Let’s face it—some people hear “impact resistant” and think of something bulky or unattractive. But the good news is, today’s shingles come in a variety of colors and styles, including architectural options that boost curb appeal.
So you’re not sacrificing looks for performance. You’re getting both.
Are Impact Resistant Shingles Worth the Cost?
It’s a fair question. These shingles typically cost more upfront than standard options. But when you factor in the reduced maintenance, longer lifespan, and potential insurance savings, they often pay for themselves over time.
Here’s a quick cost-benefit example:
- Say you spend $2,000 more on an impact resistant roof.
- But you avoid two $800 repair jobs and save $150 a year on insurance.
- Within five years, the roof has effectively paid for itself—and it’ll likely keep saving you money for another 20+.
Not bad for a little upfront investment.
Fitz Roofing: Helping You Get the Most from Your Roof
At Fitz Roofing, we’ve been helping homeowners and commercial property owners in Houston protect their buildings since 2014. We know the products, the climate, and the insurance side of things, too.
So if you’re thinking about upgrading to impact resistant shingles, we’ll walk you through your options, explain the pros and cons, and help you choose what’s best for your situation—not just what’s trendy or expensive.
And yes, we back our work with strong warranties and real accountability.
Ready to Upgrade Your Roof?
If you’re interested in the benefits of impact resistant shingles and want to know what your next steps should be, we’d love to talk.
Call Fitz Roofing at (832) 521-3001 or email us at info@fitzroofing.com to set up a no-pressure consultation. We’ll take a look at your roof, explain your options, and give you honest recommendations based on what you actually need.
Smart upgrades don’t have to be complicated. Let’s keep it simple—and get your roof ready for whatever Houston throws at it next.
