At Harvey Roofing & Construction, we know that protecting your home from severe weather is a top priority for homeowners.
When it comes to roofing, Malarkey Class 4 shingles stand out as a superior choice for ultimate protection.
These high-performance shingles offer exceptional durability, impact resistance, and long-lasting beauty, making them an excellent investment for your home.
What Are Class 4 Shingles?
Class 4 shingles represent the highest standard of impact resistance in roofing materials. These shingles protect homes against severe weather conditions, particularly hail storms, which often damage standard roofing materials.
The Rigorous Testing Process
The Class 4 rating requires shingles to pass the UL 2218 test, which simulates hail impact. This test drops steel balls of varying sizes from a height of 20 feet onto the shingles. To achieve the Class 4 rating, shingles must remain intact after two strikes in the same spot by a 2-inch steel ball. The Class 1 projectile used in this test is 1.25 inches in diameter. This stringent test ensures that Class 4 shingles can withstand severe hail impacts without compromising their integrity.
Superior Protection in Severe Weather
In regions prone to extreme weather (such as parts of Texas), Class 4 shingles prove invaluable. They offer superior protection against hail, high winds, and flying debris. This level of durability results in fewer repairs and replacements over time, which saves homeowners money and reduces hassle.
Financial Benefits for Homeowners
Many insurance companies recognize the value of Class 4 shingles and offer discounts on homeowners’ insurance premiums for homes with these high-performance roofs. State Farm reports that homeowners may be eligible for an annual discount on their homeowners premium, especially if their current roof is made of wood shingles. This financial incentive, combined with reduced repair needs, makes Class 4 shingles a smart long-term investment.
Environmental Considerations
Class 4 shingles also offer environmental benefits. Their durability means fewer replacements over time, which reduces the amount of roofing material that ends up in landfills. Additionally, some Class 4 shingles (like those offered by Malarkey) incorporate recycled materials in their production, further minimizing their environmental impact.
The next section will highlight the specific features and benefits of Malarkey Class 4 shingles, explaining why they stand out as a top choice for homeowners who seek ultimate protection for their roofs.
What Makes Malarkey Class 4 Shingles Stand Out?
Malarkey Class 4 shingles offer exceptional performance and value for homeowners who seek top-tier roof protection. These shingles excel in durability, weather resistance, and energy efficiency, which makes them a smart choice for long-term home investment.
Unmatched Durability and Weather Resistance
Malarkey Class 4 shingles withstand severe weather conditions. Their unique composition includes NEX® polymer modified asphalt, which enhances flexibility and impact resistance. This advanced formulation allows the shingles to absorb the energy from hail impacts without cracking or breaking. These shingles can withstand impacts from 2-inch steel balls dropped from a height of 20 feet (as per the UL 2218 test standards).
Wind resistance is another key feature of Malarkey Class 4 shingles. They withstand wind speeds up to 110 mph, which proves crucial in areas prone to severe storms or hurricanes. This high wind resistance results from Malarkey’s innovative design and superior adhesive properties, which keep the shingles firmly in place even during extreme weather events.
Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
Malarkey Class 4 shingles incorporate cool roofing technology, which significantly impacts a home’s energy efficiency. These shingles feature 3M™ Cool Roofing Granules that reflect solar heat, which reduces the amount of heat absorbed by the roof. This reflective property can lower attic temperatures, potentially decreasing cooling costs.
The durability of these shingles also translates to long-term cost savings. With their superior resistance to weathering and impacts, homeowners can expect fewer repairs and a longer roof lifespan. This reduced need for maintenance and replacement not only saves money but also minimizes the environmental impact associated with roofing waste.
Aesthetic Appeal and Design Versatility
While performance remains paramount, Malarkey hasn’t compromised on aesthetics. Their Class 4 shingles come in a wide array of colors and styles to complement various architectural designs. From the rustic charm of the Windsor® Scotchgard™ shingles to the sleek look of the Vista™ AR shingles, homeowners can find options that enhance their home’s curb appeal while providing top-notch protection.
The color retention of these shingles also stands out. Malarkey uses advanced granule technology that resists fading, which ensures that the roof maintains its aesthetic appeal for years to come. Additionally, the Scotchgard™ protection (offered in some Malarkey shingle lines) prevents unsightly black streaks caused by algae growth, which preserves the roof’s appearance over time.
The next section will explore the installation process and maintenance tips for Malarkey Class 4 shingles, which will help homeowners maximize their investment and ensure long-lasting protection for their homes.
How to Install and Maintain Malarkey Class 4 Shingles
Professional Installation Process
A new roof is more than just new shingles. It’s a combination of 5 products, and a series of 9 steps. Follow them for a better, smoother, roofing experience. Professional installation is essential for these high-performance shingles to function as intended. The process starts with a thorough inspection of the existing roof structure. Professionals remove old shingles and repair any damaged decking. They then apply a high-quality underlayment to provide an additional moisture barrier. Proper ventilation is important, so adequate intake and exhaust vents must be in place.
Installers use specific nailing patterns and techniques recommended by the manufacturer when installing Malarkey Class 4 shingles. This attention to detail is necessary for achieving the wind resistance rating of up to 110 mph. Special attention is paid to vulnerable areas like eaves, rakes, and valleys, using appropriate flashing and sealants to prevent water infiltration.
Maintenance for Long-Lasting Performance
While Malarkey Class 4 shingles are designed for durability, regular maintenance can further extend their lifespan. Annual inspections help catch and address minor issues before they become major problems. During these inspections, professionals look for signs of wear, loose or missing shingles, and potential leak points.
Keeping gutters clean is another important maintenance task. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up under the shingles, potentially leading to roof damage and leaks. Homeowners should clean gutters at least twice a year (more frequently if the property has many trees).
Trimming overhanging branches is also important. Falling branches can damage shingles, and overhanging limbs can trap moisture, promoting algae growth. Maintaining a clear space above the roof helps preserve its integrity.
Warranty Coverage and Protection
Malarkey offers robust warranty coverage for their Class 4 shingles, reflecting confidence in their product’s performance. Every Malarkey warranty begins with a multi-year, non-prorated warranty period designed to protect your shingle investment and get it off to a Right Start™. The standard warranty typically covers manufacturing defects for up to 50 years, with specific terms varying by product line. Some Malarkey shingles also come with algae resistance warranties, protecting against unsightly staining.
It’s important to note that proper installation by certified professionals is often a requirement for full warranty coverage. In the event of severe weather damage, documenting the condition of the roof is important. Homeowners should take photos and contact a professional roofing contractor promptly. Quick action can prevent further damage and strengthen any potential insurance claims.
Maximizing Shingle Performance
To maximize the performance of Malarkey Class 4 shingles, homeowners should:
- Schedule regular inspections (at least annually)
- Keep the roof clear of debris
- Ensure proper attic ventilation
- Address any issues promptly
These steps will help maintain the roof’s integrity and extend its lifespan, protecting the home and its occupants for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Malarkey Class 4 shingles offer unparalleled protection against severe weather conditions. These high-performance roofing materials withstand hail, high winds, and other extreme events that often damage standard shingles. Their superior impact resistance and durability translate to fewer repairs and replacements, which saves homeowners money over time.
The energy efficiency of Malarkey Class 4 shingles provides additional benefits to homeowners. Their cool roofing technology reflects solar heat, which can lower cooling costs and improve overall home energy performance. These shingles also come in a wide range of colors and styles to enhance curb appeal while maintaining their protective qualities.
For expert installation and guidance on selecting the right Malarkey shingles for your home, Harvey Roofing & Construction provides professional roofing services with a focus on quality. Our team’s expertise ensures your roof will perform at its best for years to come. Investing in Malarkey Class 4 shingles protects your home, increases its value, and offers peace of mind during severe weather events.
