Granule Loss on Shingles
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Why You Want to Pay Attention to Asphalt Shingle Granule Loss
Over 80% of residential roofs are made with asphalt shingles. It's a roofing material that provides a great balance between longevity and affordability. However, getting the longest lifespan out of an asphalt shingle roof requires regular roof inspections, maintenance and making repairs as soon as an issue arises.
You'll know it's time to give your roof some attention when you notice granule loss.
Are the granules coming off your asphalt shingles?
Contact the LOA Team for a FREE Roof Inspection to find out what to do about it!
What Asphalt Shingle Granule Loss Looks Like
Asphalt shingles are made by layering materials. The outermost layer is made of granules, which are tiny bits of slate or ceramic that are embedded in bitumen asphalt that's been applied to the fiberglass base of the shingle.
The granules come in a variety of colors so they are beneficial for aesthetic reasons, but they also help protect the layers further down by blocking UV rays and providing protection against water penetration. On top of all that, granules increase fire resistance and protect the roof when there's foot traffic.
Granule loss may or may not be cause for concern. It can be a normal part of an asphalt shingle's aging process or a sign that the materials are aging prematurely. When there's an issue you'll notice more than a few granules that have come off the shingles.
Discoloration or Worn Spots on the Roof
Seeing discolored or worn spots is a telltale sign an asphalt shingle roof needs TLC. The granules are what give asphalt shingles their color. So any time there's discoloration that isn't from mold or mildew you'll need to get a closer look to gauge the extent of the problem.Granules in the Gutters
Often homeowners realize there's a problem while cleaning their gutters. They'll notice what looks like sand or tiny black pebbles collecting in the gutters, which are granules that have loosened and been washed off the roof by rain or snow and into the gutter system.Granules on the Ground Under the Roof Edge
If you don't have gutters on your home then you'll see granules that have fallen to the ground directly under the roof line.

What Causes Asphalt Roof Shingles to Deteriorate
The mineral granules on asphalt shingles can come off for various reasons, some of which are unavoidable. Here are the most common reasons loose granules have become an issue.
UV Exposure
Sun exposure is likely a factor to some degree. The same roof can have dramatically different longevity depending on whether or not it gets full exposure to UV rays throughout the day. But that's to be expected since the granule layer is designed to protect the deeper layers from UV damage.
Wear and Tear Over Time
Shingles can also shed granules simply because the roofing materials are aging. As a shingle roof ages, loose granules happen because of general wear and tear that's experienced over time.
Aggressive Washing
Roof cleaning is a part of comprehensive roof maintenance, but it has to be done in the right way or you could end up causing damage rather than preventing it. Using a pressure washer to clean an asphalt shingle roof may not be the best idea since the water pressure can loosen granules and accelerate granule loss.
Inadequate Attic Ventilation
All roofing materials perform better when the temperature in the attic is regulated. That requires adequate insulation and attic ventilation. Without it the attic can overheat or create hot spots that overheat the asphalt shingles and cause them to degrade.
Bad Weather
In Texas, storms that usher in heavy rain, high winds and hail can leave you with premature granule loss. Storm damage from heavy snow can also cause granule loss.
Defective Roof Shingles
It doesn't happen often, but if shingles deteriorate shortly after installation they could be defective. Premature granule loss can be from the manufacturing process This is why it's important to check the warranties for any roof material that you plan to use.
Improper Installation
Once again, the issue could be the result of improper installation. It could be a matter of application or material selection. Either way, a bad roof installation can be the reason your roof is losing granules.

Choosing Between Roof Repair and Roof Replacement When There's Granule Loss
When shingle granules start the shed it weakens the roofing structure. The first step in deciding what to do about it is scheduling an inspection with a roofing professional. The roofer will get up close to figure out the cause and the extent of the damage.
Those two factors are going to determine if roof repair is enough to prevent granule loss problems. You can't reapply the granules, which means you have to replace the shingles. That can be done by replacing only the affected shingles, a section of the roof or the entire roof. If the problem is widespread and affecting at least half or more of the shingles roof replacement is likely needed.
Live in Central Texas and need a roof inspection? LOA is the roofing company to call about excessive granule loss. We offer free inspections that will analyze the underlying issues to find the most cost effective solution.
