If you’re considering a new roof in 2025 in West County, Ballwin, Chesterfield, or anywhere in St. Charles, Belleville, or Swansea, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is whether to go with a Class 4 impact‑resistant roof (like CertainTeed ClimateFlex) or a high‑end architectural shingle like Landmark Pro (which is Class 3). Class 4 roofs cost more up front—but they also offer stronger protection, potential savings on insurance, and benefits that may make the higher cost worth it.
What Is a Class 4 Roof — And How Does ClimateFlex Fit In?
First, to compare prices, we need to understand what you’re paying for.
- Class 4 impact rating (UL 2218) is the top rating for impact resistance for asphalt or polymer‑modified shingles. That means the material has passed a test with a 2‑inch steel ball dropped from a set height, in certain spots, without cracking, splitting, or visible damage.
- CertainTeed’s ClimateFlex shingle is one of its high‑performance lines that meets or exceeds many criteria for strong impact resistance and durability. It tends to be more expensive than standard or even premium architectural shingles like Landmark Pro, which are Class 3.
So when you compare Landmark ClimateFlex (Class 4) vs Landmark Pro (Class 3), you’re comparing not just appearance, but performance under hail/wind, warranty, and long‑term costs.
What Drives the Cost Difference
Here are the main factors that make a Class 4 shingle roof more expensive than a “standard” Landmark Pro roof. Understanding these helps explain the premium, and where you might save.
Materials / Shingle cost per bundle/square:
Class 4 shingles use extra materials — polymer‑modified asphalt, thicker mats, stronger laminations, better granule adhesion. That adds cost in manufacturing and transport.
Weight / Handling:
Heavier shingles often cost more to deliver and install. More labor hours for carrying on steep roofs or complex roof shapes.
Accessory & Installation Requirements:
To get full warranty or full performance, you often need better starter strips, hip & ridge caps, underlayment, ventilation, flashing. If those are subpar, the warranty might be limited.
Labor / Complexity:
Roofs with many penetrations, steeper pitches, difficult access, etc., raise installation time and cost. Class 4 material may require more care during installation (especially in colder weather).
Local Market / Demand & Competition:
In areas where storm damage is common (e.g., parts of Missouri that get hail), demand for high‑impact shingle roofs may raise the relative costs of materials & labor. Also, supplier inventory for ClimateFlex may be less common and cost more to restock.
Permits / Inspections / Insurance Incentives:
Sometimes, to get insurance discounts or meet local codes after a big storm, proof of broadcast and documentation is needed, which may include inspections or certifications. That can add cost.
👉 Curious about what’s driving roofing labor costs this year? Explore our 2025 labor pricing guide for roofing jobs across Missouri and Illinois.
How Much More Should You Expect to Pay? (Missouri & Illinois Context)
While exact numbers depend on your specific roof (size, pitch, number of valleys, type of home, etc.), here are ballpark figures based on national data, adjusted somewhat for Missouri/Illinois, plus what additional cost might look like.
National Benchmarks
From industry sources:
- A 1,600 sq ft roof (about 16 “squares” [100 sq ft per square]) using Class 4 impact‑resistant shingles typically runs $4,960 to $8,950 installed.
- That’s about 10‑20% more than installing regular architectural shingles.
- Material cost for just the Class 4 shingles (without labor or accessories) tends to run $136‑200 per square in many markets.
- Meanwhile, Class 3 shingles / “standard architectural” ones might cost somewhat less in materials — perhaps $90‑$125/square depending on manufacturer, style, color, etc. (depends a lot on quality, brand, warranty, etc.).
Local Adjustments: What to Expect in Missouri / Illinois (Gorilla Roofing Areas)
Given local labor rates, roofer competition, availability of CertainTeed products, etc., here are adjusted estimates for our service areas (West County, Chesterfield, St. Charles, Belleville, Swansea, etc.):
- For a standard roof size of ~20 squares (≈ 2,000 sq ft), using Landmark Pro (Class 3), you might see material + labor + accessories in the range of $9,600‑$15,200 depending on complexity, pitch, and finish.
- For the same roof using ClimateFlex (Class 4), expect a premium of roughly 15‑25% more, which could mean an additional $1,400‑$7,400 depending on the job. So total could be $11,000‑$17,000+.
These numbers can be higher for steep or complex roof lines, roofs with many penetrations (chimneys, skylights), or poor access. They can be lower for simple ranch or gable roofs with standard pitches and easy access.
Breaking Down the Price Difference: Components
To help you understand where that extra cost comes from, here’s a sample breakdown for a typical 2,000 sq ft roof in Chesterfield or Ballwin area.
*These are estimates based on local roofing market behavior in the Missouri/Illinois region. For individual quotes, fill out this form and get a free estimate.
👉 Want a deeper look at what makes up the cost of a new roof? Review our complete investment breakdown to understand each component.
What Makes the Premium Worth It
Paying more for ClimateFlex / Class 4 isn’t just about the feeling of having “better stuff.” Here are tangible benefits you may realize, especially living in Missouri/Illinois:
- Storm & Hail Resistance
This region does get hail, especially out in St. Charles, Lake St. Louis, and into Illinois (Swansea, Belleville). A Class 4 roof can sustain hail without major damage, reducing repair or patching costs after storms. - Insurance Premiums & Discount Incentives
Some insurance carriers in Missouri and Illinois offer premium discounts for roofs with Class 4 rating. Depending on your insurer, that could be 10‑25% or more. Over the years, that can help offset the higher upfront cost. (Always confirm with your insurer.) - Reduced Maintenance & Repairs
With stronger shingles, fewer damaged shingles, fewer leaks, and fewer patch jobs. That means less money paid out over time. - Longevity of Roof & Appearance
Better resistance to granule loss, UV damage, staining from mold/algae, etc. A Class 4 roof may retain its curb appeal longer, which matters in neighborhoods like Ladue, Clayton, or Town & Country. - Resale Value
If you ever sell a home in Chesterfield, O’Fallon, Belleville, etc., you may get higher buyer confidence (and sometimes more value) for a roof that’s impact-rated, durable, and comes with a good warranty.
When the Cost Premium Might Not Be Worth It
While Class 4 often is a strong investment, there are scenarios where the extra expense may not make sense (or may make only marginal sense):
- Mild weather / low hail risk areas: If your home is in a spot that hasn’t historically gotten much hail, the risk you avoid may be small.
- Lower pitch roofs or simple roof lines: If your roof is a shallow slope, has few penetrations, and easy access, the material differences may count for less.
- Budget constraints: If extra cost means sacrificing other necessary parts of the roof (ventilation, flashing, underlayment), that’s a worse trade‑off than selecting the less expensive shingle.
- Short‑term ownership: If you plan to sell the home soon (within 5 years), you may not capture enough of the benefit before you pass the property on.
What to Ask and Check When Getting Quotes
To ensure you understand where the cost premium is coming from and whether it’s fair value, ask these questions:
- Does the quote specify materials vs labor vs accessories?
- Are the materials ClimateFlex or another Class 4 shingle? (Check UL 2218 rating documentation.)
- What warranty terms are included (wind rating, algae/streak protection, impact warranty)?
- What starter, ridge, hip, flashing components are included? Are they premium or standard?
- How much tear‑off is included? Is disposal included in the price?
- Is work being done in season with favorable weather? Winter or wet seasons can add complexity.
- What insurance incentives or discounts might you be eligible for locally?
👉 Before you finalize your roofing decision, review this checklist of smart questions to ask your roofer—it could save you time and money.
Typical Return on Investment (ROI) & Break‑Even Timeline
Based on the premium cost + savings, here’s what a homeowner in Missouri or Illinois might expect in terms of ROI:
- If you pay an extra $3,000‑$5,000 now for ClimateFlex over Landmark Pro, insurance discounts + fewer repairs might pay that back over 5‑10 years (depending on frequency/severity of storms, insurer, local hail risk).
- After that, the difference becomes a net benefit in terms of avoided damage, fewer maintenance costs, and better curb appearance.
- Also, when you go to sell, having a roof rated for high impact can help avoid negotiation leverage around “roof condition” which often reduces offers.
How Gorilla Roofing Helps Manage the Premium
At Gorilla Roofing, we help customers get the most out of their roofing budget, especially when considering upgrades like ClimateFlex. Here’s how:
- We provide transparent estimates showing exactly what extra you’re paying for ClimateFlex vs Landmark Pro.
- We help you verify warranty terms and whether the installation meets manufacturer specs (so your warranty holds).
- We help check your insurance company’s policies to see what discounts / credits you might get for a Class 4 roof.
- We suggest when it makes sense (locally) to upgrade vs when standard Landmark Pro offers strong value.
Final Considerations Before You Decide
- Do a roof inspection first: sometimes underlying issues (bad decking, poor ventilation) are causing damage, and buying a premium shingle won’t fix those problems.
- Ensure proper ventilation and underlayment: even the best Class 4 roof won’t last if heat/humidity builds under it or water gets trapped.
- Consider local hail history: Review if your neighborhood has been hit by hail in recent years—this can influence how soon you’ll see benefit from a Class 4.
- Think about resale value: newer home buyers often ask about roof warranties, age, and protection; having a Class 4 roof can ease appraisals and offers.
Cost vs. Value: Is the Upgrade from Landmark Pro to ClimateFlex Worth It?
In most cases in Missouri & Illinois, the upgrade is worth serious consideration whenever your home is exposed to moderate to severe weather risk (hail, high winds, freeze‑thaw cycles). For homes in Chesterfield, Ballwin, O’Fallon, Belleville, Swansea, etc., where storms periodically cause roof damage, the break‑even tends to happen after several years (via insurance savings + lower repair/maintenance).
If your budget allows, ClimateFlex gives you more peace of mind, stronger performance, and likely better long‑term value. But if the extra cost is tight and your home is in a lower risk area instead, Landmark Pro remains a strong, visually appealing, and more economical choice.
Extras to Watch Out For in Your Area (Missouri / Illinois)
- Local building codes: some jurisdictions in Missouri may require higher impact ratings or certain wind resistance specs after heavy storms.
- Insurance audits: make sure your insurer inspects / documents before and after install, to ensure eligibility for discounts.
- Local supplier availability: sometimes ClimateFlex has longer lead times / higher freight cost if delivered from far away.
- Seasonal timing: labor rates & material costs can fluctuate by season; scheduling in off‑peak may yield savings.
What Does the Extra Cost Really Buy You?
Choosing ClimateFlex (Class 4) over Landmark Pro (Class 3) isn’t just paying more for a cooler name — it’s paying for real performance: better protection in storms/hail, fewer repairs, potential insurance savings, better aesthetic retention, and likely higher resale value.
If you live in storm‑prone areas in our service zone — Ballwin, Chesterfield, St. Charles County, Belleville, Swansea, etc. — the premium for a Class 4 roof often makes sense over the roof’s life. If your weather risk is low or your budget is limited, Landmark Pro still gives you strong value.
Ready to See the Real Cost for Your Home?
At Gorilla Roofing, we pride ourselves on delivering top-notch roofing services with integrity and professionalism. Our team is licensed, insured, and committed to exceeding your expectations.
📞 Call us today at (636) 295-1212
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