You Survived the Hailstorm. Now Let’s Tackle Insurance.
It’s been a month since the hailstorm hit our area — Minnetonka, Deephaven, Long Lake and beyond. You probably remember exactly where you were on September 21 when the hailstorm hit. It was loud, a tad terrifying and sounded like someone was dumping gallons of marbles on your roof.
Now that the skies are clear and the lawn ornaments have been located, many homeowners are dealing with the aftermath: roof damage, insurance claims, and a whole bunch of advice (some helpful, some… less so) from neighbors, agents, and the internet.
One question we’ve been hearing a lot lately:
“Should I go with impact-resistant shingles?”
Let’s break it down.
🔨 What Are Impact-Resistant Shingles?
Impact-resistant shingles are designed to stand up better to hail, wind, and flying tree debris than standard shingles. They come in different “classes,” which are kind of like durability scores:
- Class 3 = Decent durability
- Class 4 = The top tier — the Chuck Norris of shingles
More and more insurance companies (especially big ones like State Farm) are encouraging — and in some cases, strongly recommending — that homeowners install impact-resistant shingles. In return, they offer discounts on your insurance premiums.
Sounds great, right?
Well… mostly.
Tonka Roofing is here to walk you through the pros and cons.
🏡 Class 4 Shingles
✅ Pros:
- Highest level of impact resistance — better protection during future storms
- Often qualify for bigger insurance discounts
- Can reduce the chances of needing repairs after a hail event
- Some even carry warranties for hail damage
⚠️Cons:
- Higher upfront cost than standard shingles
- Some insurance carriers may become more stringent on future claims (i.e. “You installed the best shingles — why do you have damage?”)
- Not every roof type or neighborhood requires this level of durability
🏡 Class 3 Shingles
✅ Pros:
- More affordable than Class 4
- Still tougher than standard shingles
- May still qualify for a moderate insurance discount
⚠️ Cons:
- Not as durable in a big hailstorm
- May not meet certain insurance discount programs
- Shorter lifespan and less protection in extreme weather
Things to Consider Before Deciding
- Talk to your roofer (hi, that’s us 👋): We can assess your roof, explain your options, and recommend what makes sense for your home.
- Talk to your insurance company: Every policy is different. Ask how much of a discount you’d actually get — and whether it’s worth the upgrade.
- Think long-term: If you’re planning to stay in your home for years, the added protection could be a smart investment. If you’re moving soon, a cheaper option might make more sense.
We’re Here to Help
At Tonka Roofing, we’ve helped countless Minnetonka homeowners navigate storms, insurance claims, and shingle selection. We know the jargon. We know the fine print. And most importantly, we know how to make the process a whole lot less stressful.
We’re not here to sell you something you don’t need. We’re here to help you make a smart choice for your home and your budget.