What are the best rated architectural roof shingles?
Short answer. The best rated architectural shingles are the ones carrying the top verifiable ratings: ASTM D7158 Class H or ASTM D3161 Class F for wind, UL 2218 Class 4 for impact, Class A for fire, and a long algae warranty. Several major lines meet most of these, and the Class 4 versions from the big manufacturers come closest to checking every box.
The ratings that matter
- Wind, ASTM D3161: a fan test with classes A, D and F. Class F, tested at 110 mph, is the top.
- Wind, ASTM D7158: an uplift test with classes D, G and H. Class H corresponds to 150 mph and is the top.
- Impact, UL 2218: Class 1 to Class 4. Class 4 survives a 2-inch steel ball dropped twice from 20 feet.
- Fire, ASTM E108 or UL 790: Class A is the highest.
- Product standard, ASTM D3462: the baseline specification for fiberglass asphalt shingles.
- Algae: the number of years in the algae warranty.
- Reflectivity: a Cool Roof Rating Council listing, if a cooler surface matters to you.
Lab ratings vs online ratings
Star ratings on retail sites mostly reflect delivery, price or one homeowner's installer. Lab ratings describe the product itself and are printed on the package. Use the lab ratings to choose the shingle and reviews to choose the contractor.
Read the wrapper
Ratings apply to the product as packaged. Manufacturers state that an impact rating applies only to packages that carry the classification statement, so the box on your driveway should show it. Keep a photo of the wrapper with your records.
The highest rated combination
Class 4 impact, Class H or Class F wind, Class A fire and a long algae warranty. That combination exists in several manufacturers' impact-rated lines. For context on Georgia storms, see impact-resistant shingles in Georgia and wind damage to roofs in Georgia.