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Asphalt Shingles: Class 3 vs Class 4

Otsego MN Roofing Services

Class 3 vs Class 4 Asphalt Shingles, Explained

Class 3 and Class 4 refer to a shingle's impact resistance rating under standardized testing, with Class 4 rated to withstand a larger, higher velocity impact without cracking. In a hail prone state like Minnesota, Class 4 shingles cost more upfront but can qualify homeowners for insurance premium discounts and reduce the odds of hail damage triggering another claim down the road.

  • Architectural Asphalt Shingles: The standard for most Otsego homes, offering strong wind resistance and a range of cold weather rated product lines built for Minnesota winters.

  • Standing Seam & Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing: Sheds snow efficiently and resists hail better than asphalt, with a lifespan that can run 40 to 70 years under proper installation.

  • TPO & EPDM Commercial Flat Roofing: TPO's heat-welded seams and reflective white surface perform well in summer heat loads. EPDM's proven flexibility handles the freeze-thaw stress that the Twin Cities sees 40 to 60 times per year.

  • Composite Shingle & Cedar Shake: For that classic, timeless feel, we offer both synthetic and natural shake shingles.

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What Your Neighbors Are Noticing

What the Class Rating Actually Tests

Impact resistance classes come from a standardized test that drops steel balls of specific sizes onto a shingle sample to simulate hail impact. Class 4 is the highest rating available for asphalt shingles, meaning the product resisted cracking under the largest simulated impact in the test.

Why This Matters More in Minnesota Than in Many States

Minnesota sees regular hail events, and a Class 3 shingle can crack or bruise under a hail size that a Class 4 shingle would resist. Since hail damage is one of the most common reasons for a roof insurance claim in this region, the rating has a direct connection to how often you might be filing one.

The Insurance Discount Angle

Many Minnesota insurance carriers offer a premium discount for roofs with Class 4 impact resistant shingles, since the insurer's own risk of paying out a hail claim goes down. This discount, combined with fewer claims over the life of the roof, is part of what offsets the higher upfront material cost.

Where Class 3 Still Makes Sense

Class 3 architectural shingles remain a reasonable, well performing choice for homeowners prioritizing upfront cost, particularly on homes with less direct hail exposure or shorter planned ownership timelines.

What This Means for You

If you're planning to stay in your home long term and live in an area that sees regular hail, the cost difference for Class 4 is often worth weighing against the insurance discount and reduced odds of a future claim.

How KraftMasters Approaches This

KraftMasters Restoration walks through the Class 3 versus Class 4 decision honestly during every estimate, including what the insurance discount could look like for your specific policy.

Masters Of Our Kraft

Restoration Done Right, Every Time

1. 18-Point Inspection & Documentation

We start with a thorough roof inspection that goes beyond the shingles. Hail damage shows up in the granule loss pattern, at the flashing points, along the soft metals like gutters and downspouts, and sometimes in the decking underneath. We photograph every area of damage and produce documentation specific enough to support a full insurance claim.

2. Insurance Claims Support

Once damage is confirmed, we help you file the claim and coordinate directly with your adjuster. Insurance adjusters frequently underestimate granule loss, overlook collateral damage, or write a scope that does not include everything covered by your policy. We review the initial scope of loss and submit supplemental documentation when items have been missed. We do not consider this done until the approved scope reflects the actual damage.

3. Material Selection

Kraft Masters is a certified installer for the top-of-the-line materials to put on your home. From GAF Timberline HDz shingles to secure your roof to LP SmartSide siding to enhance your curb appeal. We will walk you through the best options that fit your home, and your scope of damage.

4. Same-Day Installation

Once materials are approved and scheduled, our crew arrives with everything needed to complete the job in a single day. We inspect the decking before new material goes down, photograph each stage, and handle magnetic nail collection across the full property. No overnight weather exposure. No half-finished work waiting on a callback.

5. Final Walk-Through and Full Claim Close-Out

We walk the completed job with you before we leave. If depreciation has been withheld pending completion, we provide the documentation needed to release it. The job is finished when you have your roof and your full claim settlement, not just one of the two.

FAQs

Common Questions Your Neighbors Are Asking

Q: How much more does Class 4 shingle cost compared to Class 3?

A: Typically a modest percentage increase over Class 3 material, which is often partially offset by the insurance premium discount over time.

Q: Do all insurance companies offer a discount for Class 4 shingles?

A: Not all carriers offer the same discount, so it's worth confirming directly with your insurance provider what applies to your policy.

Q: Can I inspect my own roof from the ground?

A: You can spot obvious issues like missing shingles, but hail bruising and granule loss are difficult to assess accurately without getting on the roof.

Going The Extra Mile Since 1999

Impacted By Storm Damage?

You deserve a contractor who's willing to go the distance. The insurance claims process is a marathon, not a sprint. Call KraftMasters today to schedule your free inspection, or click below to get get started instantly!

Service Areas

Proudly Serving Our Otsego Community Since 1999

  • Otsego MN

  • Rogers MN

  • St. Michael MN

  • Elk River MN

  • Maple Grove MN

  • Monticello MN

  • Albertville MN

  • Plymouth MN

  • Hanover MN

  • + More

10603 95th St NE, Otsego, MN 55362, USA

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