UPDATED FOR 2025
Do GAF Shingles Qualify for Insurance Discounts? Impact-Resistant Options Explained
Learn how GAF Class 4 impact-resistant shingles qualify for 5-15% insurance discounts in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. Timberline HDZ RS features, savings, and requirements explained.
Key Takeaways:
- GAF Timberline HDZ RS meets UL 2218 Class 4 impact resistance standards qualifying for homeowners insurance discounts in New York
- Insurance companies typically offer 5-15% premium discounts for Class 4-rated roofs in Nassau and Suffolk Counties with roof discount programs
- Annual savings of $125-375 are common with cumulative 20-year savings reaching $2,500-9,000 for typical Long Island homeowners on insurance premiums
- Class 4 shingles cost approximately $15-25 per square more than standard versions adding $300-500 to average roof replacement costs
- Payback typically occurs within 2-3 years through reduced home insurance premiums making impact-resistant shingles financially advantageous
- County Roofing Systems as your roofing contractor provides documentation for insurance companies ensuring homeowners receive maximum available discounts from their insurance company
Your roof could be saving you hundreds of dollars annually on homeowners insurance.
Most Long Island homeowners don’t realize that installing Class 4 impact-resistant shingles qualifies you for homeowners insurance discounts ranging from 5-15% depending on your carrier and location.
For a Nassau or Suffolk County homeowner paying $2,500 yearly for homeowners insurance, that’s $125-375 in immediate annual savings through insurance discount programs.
That’s $2,500-9,000 over a typical 20-25 year roof lifespan.
GAF offers Class 4-rated impact resistant shingles through their Timberline HDZ RS (Rated Shingle) product line. These shingles meet strict UL 2218 Class 4 impact resistance standards, provide the same wind protection and algae resistance as standard Timberline HDZ, and cost just $300-500 more than non-rated versions for an average Long Island home.
Installing a new roof with impact-resistant materials can significantly reduce your insurance premiums while protecting your home.
Here’s everything you need to know.
What Are Class 4 Impact-Resistant Shingles?
Class 4 represents the highest impact resistance rating for residential roofing shingles and typically qualifies for the largest discounts on homeowners insurance premiums.
The Underwriters Laboratories (UL) 2218 standard tests shingles by dropping steel balls of increasing size from 20 feet onto the shingle surface. Class 1 uses a 1.25-inch ball. Class 2 uses 1.5 inches.
Class 3 uses 1.75 inches.
Class 4—the highest rating—requires shingles to withstand repeated impacts from a 2-inch steel ball without tearing, fracturing, or experiencing granule loss.
That 2-inch steel ball traveling at approximately 65 MPH simulates severe hail impact. Hailstones of 2 inches (roughly golf ball size) cause significant damage to standard roofing shingles, vehicles, siding, and other exterior building components.
Class 4 impact-resistant shingles are engineered with reinforced backings and rubberized components to absorb impact energy that would otherwise crack or puncture standard shingles.
GAF achieves Class 4 rating through a specialized impact-resistant mat technology incorporated into Timberline HDZ RS shingles. This proprietary layer absorbs and disperses impact energy that would otherwise crack or puncture the shingle.
The technology doesn’t make shingles “hail-proof”—severe enough hail can still cause damage—but it dramatically improves resistance compared to standard shingles.
The Class 4 rating isn’t just marketing. It’s an independently tested and verified standard that insurance companies recognize when calculating risk and setting premiums.
That recognition translates directly to lower insurance costs for homeowners who install qualifying products. Most homeowners can expect a premium discount of 10% to 30% for installing impact-resistant shingles, depending on their insurance provider and location.
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GAF Timberline HDZ RS: Features and Specifications
GAF’s Timberline HDZ RS (Rated Shingle) provides Class 4 impact resistance while maintaining all the features that make Timberline HDZ the most popular residential roofing shingle in North America.
The shingles use GAF’s LayerLock technology for mechanical shingle bonding. StrikeZone nailing area is 99.9% wider than traditional shingles.
StainGuard Plus algae protection is warranted for 25 years.
Wind resistance reaches 130 MPH when installed as part of GAF’s complete roofing system. Limited lifetime warranty on materials covers manufacturing defects.
What Makes HDZ RS Different
The impact-resistant mat technology sits within the shingle’s construction, absorbing impact energy without adding significant weight or thickness.
The shingles look identical to standard Timberline HDZ.
They install using the same techniques and maintain the same dimensional appearance and color options.
Available colors include most popular Timberline HDZ selections—Weathered Wood, Shakewood, Charcoal, Pewter Gray, Barkwood, and others. Not every Timberline HDZ color is available in the RS version, but the color selection covers most homeowner preferences.
Pricing for Timberline HDZ RS typically runs $15-25 per square higher than standard Timberline HDZ. For a 2,000 square foot roof (roughly 20 squares including waste), that translates to $300-500 in additional material cost.
Professional installation labor costs remain identical—the shingles install exactly like standard versions.
County Roofing Systems is a GAF Master Elite contractor. This means we’re certified to install Timberline HDZ RS according to GAF’s specifications and can provide the enhanced warranty coverage that comes with Master Elite installation.
How Much Can You Actually Save on Insurance?
Let’s talk real numbers instead of vague percentage claims.
Insurance premium discounts for Class 4-rated roofs vary by insurance company, your home’s location within Nassau or Suffolk County, your overall policy structure, and your insurance history.
Homeowners may save between 5% to 35% on their insurance premiums after installing a new roof with impact-resistant materials. New York insurance companies typically offer discounts ranging from 5% on the low end to 15% on the high end for Class 4 shingles.
Most homeowners see an average discount of around 20% on their insurance premiums after replacing their roof with impact-resistant shingles.
What Actual Long Island Homeowners Experience
A homeowner in Nassau County paying $2,500 annually for homeowners insurance receives a 10% discount ($250/year) after installing Class 4 shingles.
Over 20 years, that’s $5,000 in cumulative savings.
A Suffolk County homeowner paying $3,000 annually receives an 8% discount ($240/year), totaling $4,800 over 20 years.
The discount applies to the dwelling coverage portion of your policy, not necessarily your entire premium. This distinction matters because homeowners insurance includes dwelling coverage, personal property coverage, liability coverage, and additional living expenses.
The Class 4 discount typically applies only to dwelling coverage—though that’s usually the largest component of your total premium.
Insurance companies offer discounts for roofs that lower the risk of weather damage, fire damage, and leaks. Impact-resistant shingles reduce the likelihood of insurance claims from hail damage, extend roof lifespan requiring fewer repairs, and provide insurance benefits that justify the premium reduction.
Major insurance companies serving Long Island that offer Class 4 discounts include State Farm, Allstate, Liberty Mutual, Travelers, Nationwide, USAA, and many others.
Discount percentages vary by carrier.
Some companies offer 5-7%, others offer 10-12%, and a few offer up to 15% for Class 4-rated roofs combined with other protective measures.
Homeowners should notify their insurance agent immediately after installing a new roof to ensure they receive any applicable discounts. County Roofing Systems works directly with homeowners to maximize insurance benefits. We provide the necessary documentation showing your GAF Timberline HDZ RS installation meets UL 2218 Class 4 standards.
We can explain what information your insurance company needs and ensure you receive the maximum discount your policy allows.
The payback calculation is straightforward. If you paid $400 extra for Class 4 shingles and save $200 annually on insurance, you break even in year two.
Everything after that is pure savings continuing for the life of your roof.
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Nassau and Suffolk County Insurance Requirements
Nassau and Suffolk Counties don’t mandate Class 4 impact-resistant roofing for residential construction.
But insurance considerations make it financially attractive.
Long Island’s coastal exposure creates higher insurance premiums compared to inland New York locations. Proximity to the Atlantic Ocean means hurricane and tropical storm risk. Nor’easters regularly bring damaging winds.
And while severe hail is less common than in Midwest states, it does occur occasionally—often during severe thunderstorms.
Insurance companies price risk based on historical claim data. Long Island sees roof damage claims from wind, hail, falling tree limbs during storms, and wind-blown debris.
Class 4 shingles reduce claim probability by better resisting these impacts.
That’s why insurers offer premium discounts.
Some insurance companies serving Nassau and Suffolk Counties are more aggressive with Class 4 discounts than others. If you’re shopping for new insurance or your current policy is up for renewal, mentioning your Class 4-rated roof can sometimes result in better rates.
Certain high-value home insurance policies or those covering properties in designated wind zones may specifically recommend or prefer Class 4-rated roofing.
While not mandatory, installing impact-resistant shingles can make obtaining coverage easier or more affordable for homes in these categories.
County Roofing Systems stays current on insurance requirements and discount programs across Nassau and Suffolk Counties. We can explain which insurance companies offer the best Class 4 discounts and help you understand how your specific location affects available savings.
Class 4 vs. Standard Shingles: Performance Comparison
Beyond insurance savings, Class 4 impact resistant roofs provide tangible protection advantages.
Standard asphalt shingles are designed primarily for water shedding, wind resistance, and UV protection. They’ll handle normal weather conditions effectively but can sustain damage from severe hail, falling branches, or wind-blown debris during a damaging weather event.
Once damaged, shingles may leak, require repair, or need premature replacement.
Class 4 shingles are engineered specifically to resist impact damage. The impact-resistant mat technology absorbs energy that would crack or puncture standard shingles.
During severe hail events, Class 4 shingles typically emerge undamaged while neighboring roofs with standard shingles require repair or replacement.
Real-World Long Island Example
A severe thunderstorm brings quarter-to-golf-ball-sized hail to a Nassau County neighborhood. Homes with standard shingles experience damage requiring insurance claims and repairs.
Homes with Class 4 shingles show minimal or no damage.
They avoid claims, deductibles, and repair inconvenience.
The protection extends beyond hail. Falling tree branches during nor’easters, wind-blown debris from neighboring properties, and even foot traffic during roof maintenance are less likely to damage Class 4 shingles compared to standard versions.
There’s no performance penalty for choosing Class 4 shingles. Wind resistance, algae protection, color selection, and lifespan match standard Timberline HDZ specifications backed by GAF’s Limited Warranty.
You’re not sacrificing anything except paying a modest premium upfront for enhanced impact protection and ongoing insurance savings.
Your insurance provider recognizes this enhanced quality coverage through premium discounts.
County Roofing Systems recommends Class 4 shingles for virtually all Long Island roof replacements unless budget constraints make the upgrade unaffordable. The combination of insurance savings and enhanced protection justifies the minimal additional cost.
Qualifying for Insurance Discounts: Documentation Requirements
Getting your insurance discount requires proper documentation proving your roof meets Class 4 standards.
Insurance companies need verification that your shingles actually meet UL 2218 Class 4 requirements. They won’t simply take your word for it or accept an invoice showing “impact-resistant shingles” without proof.
The Documentation Process
First, your roofing contractor must provide a certificate or letter confirming installation of specific Class 4-rated products—in this case, GAF Timberline HDZ RS shingles.
The documentation should include the product name, UL 2218 Class 4 rating, installation date, and contractor information.
Second, GAF provides official documentation showing Timberline HDZ RS meets Class 4 standards. This documentation includes the UL listing, test results, and rating verification.
County Roofing Systems can provide this manufacturer documentation as part of your roofing project completion package.
Third, your insurance company may send an inspector to verify the installation. This typically involves confirming the shingles match the documentation, checking installation quality, and photographing the roof for their records.
Most insurance companies process discount applications within 30-60 days. Your discount usually applies retroactively to your policy renewal date or installation date, depending on company policies.
Some insurers apply the discount immediately upon verification, while others wait until your next policy renewal.
County Roofing Systems handles documentation preparation as standard practice for all Class 4 installations. We provide homeowners with everything needed to submit to insurance companies.
We’re available to answer questions if insurers need clarification or additional information.
The discount isn’t automatically applied—you must actively request it and provide documentation. Don’t assume your insurance company will discover your new Class 4 roof on their own.
Contact them immediately after installation to start the discount application process.
Fill out the form below or give us a call today at (888) 366-6619:
Installation Considerations for Maximum Protection
Class 4 shingles only deliver promised protection when installed correctly.
GAF’s impact resistance testing assumes proper installation following manufacturer specifications. Incorrect nailing patterns, inadequate starter strips, improper underlayment, or installation mistakes can compromise impact resistance even with Class 4-rated shingles.
Key Installation Requirements
Proper fastener placement within GAF’s StrikeZone nailing area is critical. This 99.9% wider nailing zone makes proper placement easier, but installers must still follow GAF’s nailing specifications.
Nails driven outside the designated zone reduce wind resistance and can create weak points that compromise impact protection.
Adequate roof ventilation matters for all shingles but particularly for maintaining long-term performance of impact-resistant products. Poor ventilation causes excessive attic heat buildup that can degrade shingle materials over time.
This potentially reduces impact resistance as shingles age.
Using GAF’s complete roofing system—Timberline HDZ RS shingles, WeatherWatch underlayment, starter strips, and Seal-A-Ridge cap shingles—ensures all components work together as engineered.
Mixing manufacturers or using substandard accessories can compromise overall roof performance.
County Roofing Systems is a GAF Master Elite contractor. This certification is held by fewer than 2% of roofing contractors nationwide.
Master Elite certification requires proven installation excellence, ongoing training, proper licensing and insurance, and demonstrated business integrity. Our installations follow GAF’s specifications exactly, ensuring your Class 4 shingles perform as designed.
We also include proper ventilation assessment in every roof replacement. If your attic ventilation is inadequate, we’ll recommend improvements that extend shingle life and maintain impact resistance throughout your roof’s expected 20-30 year service life.
Long-Term Value and Return on Investment
Let’s calculate the complete return on investment for Class 4 shingles.
Upfront additional cost for Timberline HDZ RS over standard Timberline HDZ: $300-500 for a typical Long Island home.
Annual insurance savings at 10% discount on $2,500 premium: $250.
Payback period: 1.2-2 years.
Twenty-year cumulative savings: $5,000 minus $400 upfront cost equals $4,600 net benefit.
That’s assuming insurance savings only. Additional benefits include reduced likelihood of storm damage requiring deductible payment (typically $1,000-2,500 for Long Island homeowners).
You avoid potential insurance rate increases following claims.
You get enhanced protection for your home and family during severe weather. You gain increased property value and marketability when selling.
Some real estate agents report that Class 4-rated roofs can be a selling point for Long Island homes, particularly in areas prone to severe weather.
Buyers appreciate knowing they’ll qualify for insurance discounts and have enhanced protection from day one of ownership.
The cumulative 20-year savings of $4,000-6,000 for typical insurance discounts substantially exceeds the modest $300-500 upfront premium.
Even if you move before 20 years, the insurance savings during your ownership plus the marketing advantage when selling provide positive return on investment.
County Roofing Systems recommends Class 4 shingles for the vast majority of Long Island roof replacements. The financial case is compelling. The protection benefits are real.
The additional cost is minimal.
And the peace of mind knowing your roof can better handle severe weather is valuable beyond just dollars and cents.
There’s No Replacement for the Best- Work with County Roofing
GAF Timberline HDZ RS shingles qualify for homeowners insurance discounts ranging from 5-15% for Long Island homeowners who install this Class 4-rated product.
The shingles meet strict UL 2218 Class 4 impact resistance standards by withstanding repeated impacts from 2-inch steel balls dropped from 20 feet. This enhanced protection reduces insurance companies’ risk exposure.
They reward this through premium discounts that save typical homeowners $125-375 annually.
With upfront costs of just $300-500 more than standard shingles, payback occurs within 2-3 years through insurance savings alone. Over a 20-25 year roof lifespan, cumulative savings reach $2,500-9,000 while also providing enhanced protection against hail, falling branches, and wind-blown debris.
County Roofing Systems is a GAF Master Elite contractor serving Long Island for over 35 years. We install Timberline HDZ RS shingles according to GAF’s specifications, provide complete documentation for insurance discount applications, and offer enhanced warranty coverage available only through Master Elite contractors.
We’ll help you understand which insurance companies serving your Nassau or Suffolk County location offer the best Class 4 discounts. We ensure your installation meets all requirements for maximum savings.
We provide ongoing support if you have questions about your discount application.
Call County Roofing Systems today at (888) 766-6619 for a free roof inspection and consultation. We’ll assess your current roof, explain Class 4 impact-resistant options from GAF and other manufacturers, calculate your potential insurance savings, and help you make an informed decision about whether impact-resistant shingles make financial sense for your home.
Your roof protects your home and your family. Make sure it’s also protecting your budget through available insurance discounts that reward smart investment in quality materials.
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