Understanding what your asphalt shingle roof goes through year after year is an essential part of keeping your home well-maintained. Over its life span, it undergoes what’s called granule loss, which you’ll immediately notice when you check the inside of your gutters. Fields Roof Service, Inc. is here to explain what causes granule loss in the first place and how this can affect your roof.
Age
The older the shingles, the more likely they are to lose granules. Over time, the adhesive that holds the granules to the shingles can weaken, causing the specks of crushed rock or ceramic to dislodge and end up collecting on your yard or in your gutters. Once your asphalt shingle roof reaches the end of its life span, you’ll need a complete roof replacement to ensure your home stays protected.
Weather
Harsh weather conditions like heavy rain, hail, or high winds can dislodge granules from the shingles. During a heavy rainstorm or hailstorm, the impact of the precipitation hitting the roof can be forceful enough to knock granules loose. Strong winds can also cause granules to be blown off the shingles, especially if the adhesive has become weakened over time. These weather-induced losses can be particularly noticeable following extreme weather events.
Poor Quality Shingles
Not all shingles are created equal. Cheaper or lower-quality shingles may lose granules more quickly than high-quality ones. Lower-quality shingles often use less durable adhesives or have a thinner layer of granules to begin with, making them more susceptible to granule loss. Additionally, these types of shingles may not be as resistant to weather conditions, which can lead to a quicker rate of deterioration and granule shedding.
Improper Installation
Asphalt shingles could lose granules prematurely if they’re not properly installed. For instance, if shingles are nailed too high above the adhesive strip, or the nails are driven too deep into the shingles, the granules may not adhere well and can fall off prematurely. If they were installed in cold weather, the adhesive might not bond properly, leading to easy granule loss when the weather warms up.
Is Granule Loss a Cause for Concern?
Granule loss is normal to some extent; it’s a part of your roof’s aging process. However, if you notice excessive granules inside your gutters or around your house, it could be a sign that your roof is close to the end of its serviceable life. At this point, it becomes a cause for concern, as this could expose the asphalt coating to harsh weather, weakening the roof’s integrity over time.
Solutions to Granule Loss
There are several ways to address granule loss in asphalt shingles:
- Roof Maintenance. Regular roof maintenance, including cleaning the gutters and removing debris from the roof, can help prevent granule loss.
- Regular Roof Inspections. Scheduling regular inspections with a professional roofer can help monitor granule loss and catch any early signs of damage.
- Roof Replacement. In cases where granule loss is extensive and the roof’s integrity is compromised, a roof replacement may be necessary. Opting for high-quality asphalt shingles can ensure better durability and longevity.
- Professional Consultation. If you’re unsure about the extent of granule loss, seeking advice from roofing professionals can provide a clear understanding and suggest suitable solutions.
Remember, addressing granule loss in its early stages can save you from costly repairs in the future.
Contact Us Today!
For high-quality roofing services, turn to Fields Roof Service, Inc. in Kent, WA. Our team has the skills and expertise to work on a wide range of sloped and flat roofing systems, whether it’s asphalt shingles or a modified bitumen roof. Give us a call at (253) 852-4974 for professional assistance that you can trust. You can also reach us online for a free roof quote!
