Maintaining your roof involves understanding potential problems, especially with asphalt shingles. While these shingles are durable and affordable, they can suffer from granule loss. Is this a significant concern for homeowners? Let’s find out in this post.
The Role of Granules in Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are made with a base mat of organic felt or fiberglass, covered in asphalt, and topped with granules. These granules are essential for the shingles’ performance.
First, they shield the shingles from UV rays that can weaken the material over time. Granules also add weight, helping the shingles resist wind uplift, and provide fire resistance. Additionally, the granules’ color and reflectivity can impact your home’s energy efficiency by influencing solar heat absorption.
Understanding the Causes of Granule Loss
When investigating granule loss, it’s important to distinguish between normal shedding and indicative signs of underlying issues. Each of the following causes has different implications for the structural integrity of your roof and the need for action.
- Age of the Shingles: Over time, it’s normal for shingles to lose granules, slowly revealing the asphalt layer. This gradual wear is typical of aging shingle roofs.
- Physical Damage: Hail, heavy rain, and foot traffic can dislodge granules, leading to accelerated loss.
- Manufacturing Defects: In some cases, premature granule loss can occur due to improper application during manufacturing.
- Improper Installation: Incorrect installation techniques or using mismatched shingles can increase the risk of granule loss.
The Impact of Granule Loss on Your Home
Understanding granule loss is important for homeowners in areas with extreme weather. Small amounts of granule loss are normal and part of the roof’s aging process. However, significant loss can expose the asphalt to UV rays, speeding up aging and potentially causing leaks. In regions with severe weather, this loss can weaken the shingles and increase the risk of damage to your home.
Preventive Measures and Solutions
Regular roof inspections are essential to address the risk of granule loss. They help determine if the loss is typical for your roof’s age or if there’s a more serious problem. Repairs or replacements might be needed for significant granule loss. Patching may be enough if the loss is localized, but widespread loss could indicate it’s time for a full roof replacement.
Homeowners should choose reputable professionals for roof installation to avoid problems from poor workmanship. Selecting high-quality shingles from trusted manufacturers can also help prevent premature granule loss due to defects.
Regular inspections, proper care, and prompt repair can extend your roof’s life and keep it effective at protecting your home. Consulting a professional like Jack the Roofer ensures your roof stays in top condition. Call us at (720) 722-2255 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We work with homeowners in Parker, CO, and surrounding areas.