Asphalt shingles, a common roofing material known for its affordability and durability, occasionally experience granule loss. This may raise concerns for homeowners about the potential impact on their roof’s performance and lifespan. Understanding its significance and taking appropriate action is critical for maintaining the health of your roof. Local roof repair and replacement services provider BSR shares insight.

Is Granule Loss in Asphalt Shingles a Big Deal?

The Role of Granules in Asphalt Shingles

Granules in asphalt shingles serve several vital purposes. They protect the shingle from UV rays, add color and aesthetic appeal, and provide fire resistance, contributing to the overall effectiveness of your roof. When these granules start to wear off, it can expose the underlying asphalt to the sun, causing it to deteriorate more quickly.

Causes of Granule Loss

Several factors can contribute to granule loss, ranging from natural weathering to more severe issues:

Natural Weathering. It’s not uncommon for shingles to lose some of their granules due to rain, wind, and snow. This is often seen as a sign of normal wear.
Physical Damage. Hail storms can wreak havoc on asphalt shingle roofs, causing immediate and excessive granule loss.
Faulty Installation. If shingles are not installed correctly, it can lead to premature granule loss and other roofing problems.
Manufacturing Defects. Though less common, defective shingles can also contribute to granule loss.

Identifying Problematic Granule Loss

While some granule loss is normal, excessive or premature loss can signal a problem and would require the expertise of a roof repair technician. Indicators include:

Bare spots on shingles
Granules collecting in gutters or downspouts
Uneven or patchy color on the roof

It’s advisable to inspect your roof regularly, especially after severe weather events, to assess the condition of your shingles.

Addressing Granule Loss

Upon noticing significant granule loss, be sure to take the following steps:

Professional Roof Inspection. Hiring a local roofing expert to conduct a thorough inspection is imperative to determine the extent of the damage and the next steps to take.
Repair or Replace. Depending on the severity of the granule loss and the condition of the roof, it may be possible to replace specific damaged shingles. However, widespread granule loss might indicate the need for a roof replacement.

Granule loss in asphalt shingles is not always a cause for alarm, but it should not be ignored. Understanding the causes and knowing when to seek professional help are key steps in maintaining the longevity and effectiveness of your roof. Staying informed and proactive about roof maintenance can save considerable time, money, and stress in the long run.

Don’t let granule loss compromise your roof’s integrity! Turn to BSR for a professional roof inspection to assess any potential roof issues. Our experienced exterior services team will help you determine the best course of action, whether it’s repair or replacement. Call us at (607) 722-7221, or fill out our contact form to request an estimate. We serve Binghamton, NY, and surrounding areas.