Louisiana Roofing Contractor

Granular Loss and What it Means for Your Roof


Granular Loss and What it Means for Your Roof

Granular Loss and What it Means for Your Roof. Mineral granules are those small particles added to the asphalt shingles’ surface. You may think they are only an aesthetic element. But shingle granules have several important purposes. Besides providing the color of the shingle, they preserve the shingle surface against deterioration, acting as an extra protective barrier. 

Likewise, the granular loss is one of the signs that roofers observe to assess your roof health. 

As a homeowner, you need to know the purpose of shingle granules and the typical reasons for the granular loss. This way, you can detect roof damage and know when to request an inspection from a roofing specialist.

Why Do Roof Shingles Have Granules?

Due to normal wear and tear, your roof will lose part of its original granular texture. So, if you have a new roof, you will see some granules in your gutters and your yard after the first rains following the installation. This fact is normal.

Age is the most relevant cause of mineral granule loss. The granules are bonded to the shingle structure thanks to the asphalt. When this bond gets weaken over time, the rain starts carrying away the granules. 

However, other factors can also cause your roof to lose its granules early.

One of them is improper installation. Some non-professional roofers try to cut corners by employing inadequate procedures. They should install the shingles side by side. Instead, they do it in vertical rows, starting from the eave and ending on the ridge. Thus, they do not move beyond reach from left to right. The result is a significant loss of granules.

Also, harsh weather events like hailstorms weaken the granules covering. Hail hit hard the shingles taking off the granules from their substratum. If there were recently a hailstorm in your area, you could find mineral granules in your yard.

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How Can I Know If My Shingles Are Losing Granules?

You can check how advanced is the process of granules losing without getting up there on your roof. 

You only have to walk around your home inspecting the zone near the downspouts. Most of the loss granules end falling in your drainage system, and you will see them piled up in the ground. So, it is a good indicator of your roof granule loss.

Besides, you can look up at your roof to detect granular loss. Did you observe discolored or exposed areas? You should contact a professional roofing contractor to evaluate the issue.

Do I Need to Replace My Roof?

Shingles mineral granules contribute to weatherproofing your roof. Without them, the weather elements’ effect will accelerate your roof deterioration.

But, although your roof is losing granules, it does not mean that you need to replace it. The choice between replacing or just repair your roof will depend on how much granules it has lost and its age. Moreover, the weather conditions in your zone will influence these two factors. If the damage is not extensive, you can replace the damaged shingles without investing now in a new roof.

Notable granular loss can say a lot about your roof shape. Thus, you should examine the condition of the granules after any strong storm, especially if your roof has more than 15 years old. 

Are your shingles losing granules? Are you not sure about repairing or replacing your roof? You can request the help of an experienced and professional roofing contractor to make the right decision.

If you are wondering any of these questions, call Roof Crafters today at 985-241-8045 to schedule an inspection in Baton Rouge, Hammond, Mandeville, and the entire Northshore of Louisiana.

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