Asphalt shingles are among the most common materials used in residential roofing because they are inexpensive and relatively easy to install. Unfortunately, they are subject to granule loss, which leads to their deterioration. When shingles lose granules, they cannot provide adequate protection against UV rays, water, and other elements.
What Causes Roof Granule Loss?
Over time, shingles naturally shed some granules, and harsh weather conditions help speed the process up. If your shingles are installed incorrectly, they will be more vulnerable. Clogged gutters and drainage issues can cause wear and tear, as pooling water will wear away at the shingles and cause the granules to wash away. When this happens, you will see them collect in the gutters.
Signs That Your Shingles Are Losing Granules
One telltale sign to watch out for is shingles appearing discolored or shiny where the base asphalt is exposed. These bald spots mean the shingles have lost their protective shield and are now exposed directly to sunlight and moisture. You should also check your gutters and downspouts to see if any granules are collecting there. Once the problem has become more severe, you will notice temperature changes in your attic or even roof leaks. At this point, the wear and tear is significant, and you must act quickly to avoid damage to the rest of your home.
Why Granule Loss Is a Serious Problem
Granule loss is not a problem that you can simply ignore and hope it will go away. Loss of granules reduces UV and weather protection, and this leads to shingles wearing out faster. At this point, they become more vulnerable to curling, cracking, and water penetration. If the problem is allowed to continue, you risk contending with costly damage. Water can degrade the structural integrity of a home, and mold can be dangerous because it can lead to significant health problems. Water damage and mold are also expensive to mitigate, so your wallet will take a major hit. Repairs for mold and water damage can run in the tens of thousands of dollars.
Solutions and Prevention
The good news is that there is a lot you can do to prevent granule loss from causing any significant damage. Clean your gutters regularly so that you can monitor granule buildup. If decorating your home requires accessing the roof, limit foot traffic as much as possible. The minute that you notice any of the signs of granule loss, act quickly.
Scheduling regular inspections with a licensed roofer will also serve as a major safeguard. When they see something wrong, they will let you know, and they will collaborate with you to make a plan for getting the repairs done.
Leave Your Roof to the Pros
If you need a roofing inspection or shingle repair for your home in Tampa, FL, contact Handyman Roofing.
