Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing materials throughout the United States, and they are still the first choice of most homeowners because they are cost-effective, durable, and available in various colors and textures that can improve curb appeal.
Despite the advantages, an asphalt shingle roof requires proper care and maintenance as they can get damaged easily. One such problem homeowners face with roof shingles is the problem of granular loss on the roof.
In this blog, we will help you understand more about granule loss, the reasons for missing granules, and whether it is a cause for concern.
What Are Shingle Granules?
If you’ve ever wondered about the tiny white or brown particles on your roof shingles, we’ve got the answer. They’re called granules, and they’re a crucial component of your roofing system. The granules are crushed stones used to cover the top layer of the asphalt shingle surface. Besides crushed stones and rocks, the shingle granules are made from minerals, sand, etc. These are mixed with other particles to add color to the roofing shingles.
Why Are Granules Important?
The top layer of an asphalt shingle roof is covered with granules for various reasons. Granules are small, round pieces of fiberglass that are used in shingles to add strength and durability. They are essential for the following reasons:
- They help protect the roof shingles from the harmful UV rays
- They are available in a variety of colors that can improve the look of the roof
- Improve the aesthetics of the property
- Add protection to the roof shingles and help them withstand harsh temperature changes
What Is Granule Loss On A Roof?
Granule loss on the roof is a term used to describe the situation in which the upper layer of the shingles starts wearing off, making the shingles lose durability and color. When you see granules on the ground or in your gutter systems, it means that granules have started to fall off your roof.
When Should You Be Worried?
Missing granules is a prevalent problem, but it is not always a cause of concern. The shingles are known to shed a few granules naturally over time. However, If you notice granule loss is more than usual and your gutter system is filled with little particles, you need to contact a professional roofing contractor right away.
Why Hire A Roofing Expert For Granular Loss Repair
Avoiding the problem of shingle granule loss can lead to more problems with your roof, such as leaks and other structural damage. You should avoid repairing the roof yourself as it can adversely affect your property and put you at risk.
This is why you need to call a roofing company if your roof needs to be repaired or replaced. A professional will perform a roof inspection and assess the damage. If the mineral granule loss is less, then they can replace the damaged shingles with new ones. If most of the shingles are worn out or have been damaged, you may need to replace your entire roof. A professional roofing contractor will be able to give you the best advice about the condition of your roof, and what steps are necessary to ensure it is working properly.
What Are The Causes Of Granular Loss?
Roofs are a crucial part of any building, and their state indicates how well-maintained the building is. Although roofing systems are designed to last for decades, they may still suffer from granule loss. Several factors can cause this. Some of the factors are discussed below:
Aging Shingles
Asphalt shingles last for 20-25 years on average. As a roof ages, it starts showing signs of deterioration. An old roof can lead to multiple problems, such as buckling and cracking shingles and a constant increase in granule loss.
The granules are attached to the shingles with the help of an adhesive. Over time, a roof will suffer general wear and tear. This reduces the power of the adhesive used, leading to loose granules. If you witness the shingles becoming brittle and you find excessive granules in the gutter systems, it may be time to replace your roof.
Improper Installation
Age is one of the significant reasons for granule loss. However, there can be times when you see that even your new roof is suffering from mineral granule loss. If you find yourself in this situation, the reason can be due to improper installation of your roof.
Poor installation is one of the top causes of granule loss on the roof. When shingles are installed incorrectly, granules can fall off the roof and clog your gutters. A roof that is not installed correctly can also lead to many other problems, and that is why it is so important that you choose the right roofing contractor for your next roof repair or replacement project. Granular loss may cause the shingles to break down faster than expected, and this is why hiring a professional roofing company is essential for a solid and durable roof.
Poor Quality Shingles
Another reason for shingle granule loss is poor-quality shingles. Roof shingles are made from different materials, and sometimes the quality of the shingle is not good enough. When you choose a poor-quality product, it will not last long, and you will need to replace it sooner than expected. This can lead to many problems since you will have to spend more money on repairs or roof replacement in the future.
To avoid this, make sure you choose the right asphalt shingles. Ensure the professional roofing contractor you hire installs the shingles made by leading manufacturers such as GAF.
Storm Damage
Top-quality asphalt roofing shingles are durable and can withstand high-speed winds. However, intense wind storms and heavy rains can still cause severe damage. Wind-driven rain can be a problem because it can loosen the granules from their position and cause them to fall off the roof.
Hailstorms can also cause significant damage to your roof. When hailstones fall on your roof, they can tear through the shingles and cause physical abrasion leading to missing granules and roof leaks.
Call Northkit Roofing For Asphalt Shingle Roof Repair
If you see excessive granule loss, it is important that you call a professional roofing company right away. The team at Northkit Roofing has years of experience in the roofing industry, and we are the best choice for asphalt shingle repair in Cedar Grove, NJ.
Our team takes pride in our work, and we offer the best professional roof repair services in South Jersey. We also provide roof replacement services, and we use quality shingles from top companies such as GAF. Contact us today at (973) 396-7416 to book a free roof inspection with our experts.
