Roof Shingles and Granule Loss
Mineral granules are applied to shingles to protect the asphalt surface.
Look closely at asphalt roof shingles; they aren’t smooth like asphalt roads. Instead, they have a rough, mottled appearance due to the mineral granules that adhere to their surface during manufacturing.
The purpose of the granules
Mineral granules are applied to shingles to protect the asphalt surface. However, sun exposure can eventually lead to damage, hastening the need for shingle replacement. Some granules are coated in ceramic or metal to help ward off rooftop algae growth. As a bonus, the granule layer gives the roofing a more attractive look.
Granule loss
Several factors can contribute to shingle granule loss.
Age is the most common cause. Like anything else, shingles don’t last forever. Older shingles tend to lose granules more easily.
Shingle quality can also play a part. Lower-grade roofing materials tend to deteriorate more quickly.
Severe rain and hail can also be rough on roofing materials, sometimes knocking granules loose.
Signs of granule loss
Fortunately, climbing onto the roof is unnecessary to see if the shingles are losing granules—take a walk around the house instead.
Examine the area around the downspouts. When shingle granules loosen, they often run through the gutter system with water. As a result, homeowners may notice piles of granules on the ground. Another way to tell if there is granule loss is to look up at the roof. If spots look bare or discolored, there may be a problem.
How to resolve granule loss
Without granules, roofing shingles cannot protect the layers beneath them—the felting, moisture barrier, and decking. Over time, it’s easier for the sun and water to cause roof leaks and deterioration if the shingles are bare.
Unfortunately, there is no way to add another granule layer to the existing shingles; they need to be replaced. Depending upon the level of granule loss and roof damage, the homeowner may be able to swap out the shingles in a specific area. However, for significant granule loss, the entire roof will need replacing.
With the professional installation of high-quality roofing materials, granule loss can be less of a problem. However, if shingles are losing granules, contact a highly-rated expert roofer for repairs.
Irish Roofing Company provides Scottsdale with roof inspection, installation, sealing and repair. We offer shingle services, tile roof services, flat roof services, roof cleaning, roof inspection, roof installation, leak repair, roof recovering, roof repair, roof sealing, skylight installation and replacement, and wood shake services for commercial and residential customers.
