Mineral granules may appear to be just a decorative accent to your roof, but they actually serve as an additional protective layer to your shingles and home, and significant granular loss can reveal a lot about the health of your roof system.
It’s important for homeowners to understand the function of shingle granules and common causes for granular loss to help spot damage and know when to contact a roofing professional for an inspection.
Granular Loss: Definition
Mineral granules were added to the design of shingles because they help protect your roof from excessive sun exposure, which can eventually lead to damage and hasten the need for a roof replacement. Granules also add increased fire resistance to your roof, offering another layer of protection to your home.
As your roof ages, it’s completely normal to lose some granular textures. Though age is the most common cause of granule loss, there are several other factors that can contribute to the premature loss of this protective coating. Severe weather such as heavy rain, hail or strong winds can also knock your granules loose. Following a storm, you may find an increased amount of shingle granules in your gutters or in your yard.
How to Prevent Granular Loss
These are some of the tips you can use to protect your roof from granular loss.
Schedule Regular Inspections
Having professionals regularly check your shingles is the first step toward a long-lasting roof. Depending on your area of living, these checks should happen anywhere from once a year to once every two to three years.
Besides your shingles, the roofing contractors should also check the rest of the roof. That way, you will catch any issues early and avoid large fees and repairs.
Keep Your Gutters Clean
Another good tip is to keep your gutters clean from all debris and accumulated dirt. Doing so will help preserve them and put less pressure on the shingles.
Do I Need to Replace My Roof?
Granules help keep your roof weatherproofed, so without them, it’s easier for the sun and water to cause roof leaks and deterioration. However, shingle granule loss does not always mean you need a full roof replacement. Depending on the level of granule loss and age of your roof, you may be able to replace the damaged shingles without having to get a new roof.
If your shingles are losing granules and you’re not sure whether to repair or replace your roof, call Tadlock Roofing at 855-964-7663 to schedule an inspection today.
