One of the defining features of asphalt shingles is the outer layer of granules that provide color and protection against ultraviolet (UV) rays. Some of these granules may come loose during your roof’s lifetime, and they can be worrisome if you don’t know what’s causing it.
Loose Asphalt Shingle Granules
Asphalt shingle granules are made from a mixture of crushed stone, minerals and coloring agents. During manufacturing, these granules are poured and pressed over still-wet, asphalt-soaked sheets of uncut backing material. The granules adhere to the asphalt as it cools. Since they’re not laminated to the backing material, granules coming loose after the manufacturing process are to be expected. You should expect to find loose granules in your gutters within a few years after installation. Again, this is normal and is nothing that should concern you. The roof will eventually “settle” after rain washes off the rest of the loose granules. If it doesn’t, you might be looking at a manufacturing defect.
What can be a cause for concern is if you start finding a large amount of loose granules in the rainwater runoff when the roof is halfway through its expected lifespan. Some of it may be due to impact damage due to hail or airborne debris, but if it is persistent, you have to have your roof inspected by your roofer. Continuous loss of granules can expose the asphalt layer to UV rays and accelerate roof deterioration.
Is Granule Loss Repairable?
Severe granule loss can be fixed by replacing the affected shingles with new ones. Granule loss on defective shingles usually manifests in the first few years, which means it should still be within the roof’s warranty period. Some kinds of external causes like tree limbs scratching the roofing surface are usually not covered by roofing warranties. Granule loss can also happen if the roof is beyond its expected lifespan. If this is the case, repairs will only be a short-term solution. It will be more practical to get a new roof.
Bradford Xteriors is your leading provider of roofing and siding installation services. Give us a call at (614) 714-1832. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve communities in Upper Arlington, Columbus and Dublin, OH.