Are you a homeowner in need of a new roof? Before you jump headfirst into the world of roofing materials, you need to know about Class H roof shingles. These shingles have a superpower that sets them apart – wind resistance up to 150 MPH.

In this article, we’ll cover a range of wind-resistant shingles topics like

What are three common signs of wind damage to asphalt roof shingles?
What factors to consider when selecting asphalt roof shingles
Weather events that impact your roof’s lifespan
Classes of roof shingles
Benefits of Class H shingles

What factors to consider when selecting asphalt roof shingles?

When determining the right wind resistance rating for your asphalt roof shingles, several factors must be considered:

Geographical Location: Different regions are susceptible to different wind speeds. You’ll need shingles with a higher wind resistance rating if you reside in areas prone to high winds or hurricanes, such as coastal regions.
Home Design: The design and shape of your home can influence how wind interacts with your roof. A steeply sloped roof or a roof with multiple peaks may need a higher wind rating as it may experience more significant wind lift.
Local Building Codes: Check your local building codes. Some areas have specific wind resistance requirements for roofing materials.
Manufacturer’s Ratings: Shingle manufacturers usually provide wind resistance ratings for their products. The ratings typically range from Class A (the least wind-resistant) to Class H (the most wind-resistant). Make sure you choose a shingle with a rating appropriate for your area’s weather conditions.

By considering these factors, you can ensure that you choose the right wind resistance rating for your asphalt roof shingles, providing optimal protection for your home.

Weather Events Affecting Shingles: Sun, Rain, and Wind

Each weather event—sun, rain, and wind—can potentially cause significant damage to your asphalt shingles.

Sun exposure, over time, can lead to the breakdown of the asphalt, causing it to become brittle and eventually crack. This ultraviolet radiation can accelerate the aging process of your shingles, reducing their lifespan.

Conversely, rain can seep underneath any cracked or loose shingles, leading to leaks and water damage in the roof’s underlying structure. Over time, this can lead to rot and structural damage to the roof deck, and in extreme cases, it can cause a section of the roof to collapse.

High winds can lift the edges of shingles and force water and debris underneath them. This can lead to both immediate water damage and long-term deterioration. Moreover, intense windstorms or hurricanes can rip shingles off the roof, exposing the roof deck to the elements. Therefore, wind often poses the most significant threat when considering the extent of possible damage to your shingles.

Understanding the Basics of Class H Shingles

These shingles are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and provide superior durability and longevity compared to traditional asphalt shingles. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Class H shingles stand out.

The Manufacturing Process of Class H Shingles

Class H shingles are a popular choice for roofing due to their exceptional performance and durability. These shingles are crafted using high-quality materials and go through a meticulous manufacturing process to ensure their reliability.

Materials Used in Class H Shingles

Class H shingles are made using a combination of materials that contribute to their strength, stability, and weatherproofing capabilities. These materials typically include:

Fiberglass matting: The foundation of Class H shingles provides excellent strength and stability. It helps the shingles withstand weather conditions, including high winds and heavy rainfall.
Asphalt: Serving as the adhesive and weatherproofing element, asphalt plays a crucial role in protecting the shingles from moisture, UV rays, and other environmental factors. It ensures the longevity of the shingles and helps maintain their structural integrity.
Mineral granules add color, texture, and UV resistance to Class H shingles. They enhance the aesthetic appeal of the shingles and provide an additional layer of protection against the sun’s harmful rays.

How are asphalt shingles made?

The manufacturing process of Class H shingles involves several steps that are carefully executed to ensure the highest quality and performance. These steps include:

Fiberglass matting reinforcement: The first step in production is to coat the fiberglass matting with asphalt. This coating provides additional strength and reinforcement to the shingles. The coated matting is then passed through heated rollers, enhancing its durability and stability.
Application of mineral granules: Once the fiberglass matting is reinforced, the top layer of the shingles is covered with mineral granules. These granules add an attractive appearance to the shingles and provide an extra layer of protection against the elements. They act as a shield, preventing the asphalt from deteriorating due to prolonged exposure to sunlight and other weather conditions.
Weather-resistant adhesive strips: To enhance the wind uplift resistance of Class H shingles, weather-resistant adhesive strips are applied during manufacturing. These strips ensure the shingles stay securely in place, even during strong winds and storms. This feature adds to the overall durability and reliability of the shingles.
Quality control inspections: Before the Class H shingles are ready for distribution, they undergo rigorous quality control inspections. These inspections ensure that the shingles meet industry standards and are free from defects or imperfections. Only shingles that pass these inspections are considered suitable for installation.

By following these production steps and using high-quality materials, manufacturers can produce Class H shingles that offer exceptional performance, longevity, and protection for residential and commercial roofs.

Benefits of Using Class H Shingles

Durability and Longevity

One of the most significant advantages of Class H shingles is their exceptional durability and longevity. These shingles can withstand extreme weather conditions, including heavy rain, snow, hail, and high winds. With proper installation and maintenance, Class H shingles can provide reliable protection for decades, saving homeowners from costly repairs or premature replacements.

Weather Resistance

Class H shingles are specifically engineered to be highly resistant to weather elements. Their superior wind resistance prevents shingle blow-offs during storms, while their impact resistance helps guard against damage from hail or falling debris. Additionally, their fire resistance provides added peace of mind, reducing the risk of roof fires.

What are the different wind resistance levels for asphalt shingles?

The wind resistance of asphalt shingles is typically classified using a set of standards established by organizations such as the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) or the International Code Council (ICC). Shingles’ wind resistance is often measured in terms of the design wind speed they can withstand.

Common classifications under ASTM D7158 testing include:

Class D (90 mph): Shingles classified as Class D are designed to withstand uplift at wind speeds of up to 90 miles per hour.
Class G (120 mph): Shingles classified as Class G are designed to withstand uplift at wind speeds of up to 120 miles per hour.
Class H (150 mph): Shingles classified as Class H are designed to withstand uplift at wind speeds of up to 150 miles per hour.

Common classifications under ASTM D3161 testing include:

Class D (90 mph): Shingles classified as Class D are designed to withstand wind speeds up to 90 miles per hour.
Class F (110 mph): Shingles classified as Class G are designed to withstand wind speeds up to 110 miles per hour.
Class A (60 mph): Shingles classified as Class H are designed to withstand wind speeds up to 60 miles per hour.

It’s important to note that these classifications may vary, and manufacturers often provide specific wind resistance ratings for their products. Additionally, local building codes may specify the minimum wind resistance requirements for roofing materials based on the geographical location and prevalent weather conditions.

What are three common signs of wind damage to asphalt roof shingles?

When it comes to identifying wind damage on asphalt shingle roofs, there are three key signs to look out for:

Missing Shingles: One of the most obvious signs of wind damage is missing shingles. High winds can loosen the adhesive that holds shingles down, causing them to blow off the roof entirely. If you notice bare spots where shingles once were, it’s likely due to wind damage.
Curling or Warping: Another sign of wind damage is the curling or warping of shingles. This is often caused by wind getting underneath a corner or edge of the shingle and bending it upwards. Over time, this can lead to the shingle cracking or tearing.
Granule Loss: Asphalt shingles are covered in tiny granules that help protect them from the sun and weather. If you notice an excess of these granules in your gutters or downspouts, it could be a sign that wind or rain has worn away your shingles.

Maintenance and Care for Class H Shingles

Regular Inspection and Cleaning

Regular inspection and cleaning are essential to extend the lifespan of your Class H shingles. This includes:

Inspecting the roof for any signs of damage, such as cracked or missing shingles
Clearing debris, branches, and leaves to prevent clogging of gutters and water pooling
Removing moss or algae growth using specialized roof cleaning solutions

Repairing and Replacing Class H Shingles

In case of damage or wear, prompt repair or replacement of Class H shingles is crucial. Hiring a professional roofing contractor is recommended to assess the extent of the damage and carry out the necessary repairs. Timely action can prevent further deterioration and ensure the continued protection of your home.

In closing

Class H shingles are high-performance roofing materials known for their durability, weather resistance, and longevity. These shingles undergo a rigorous manufacturing process and offer numerous benefits, including enhanced wind and impact resistance. When properly installed and maintained, Class H shingles provide reliable protection for your home, ensuring peace of mind for years.

Whether you’re looking for a high-quality roof installation, repair, or new gutters and siding, AIC is here to help. We believe in and practice the best customer service possible, including showing up on time, following through on what we say we’ll do, and treating people with common decency and respect.

Our in-home consultations are free, informative, and low-pressure. Please get in touch with us by texting, calling, or filling out our contact form.

What Are Class H Shingles?

What factors to consider when selecting asphalt roof shingles?

Weather Events Affecting Shingles: Sun, Rain, and Wind

Understanding the Basics of Class H Shingles