Some people work as roofers for a summer or two. Others become lifelong devotees to the profession. Those who commit to roofing as a long-time profession really take the time to learn the details. Not only do they learn how to put roofs in place, but they also learn quite a lot about various roofing materials. This equips them to make good recommendations to homeowners who are looking for the right roof. We will also make some recommendations and tell you a bit more about roofers on this blog. While we are not roofers ourselves, we know a lot about the profession and are always happy to share.
Do you have asphalt shingles on your roof? If so, you may have been told that the shingles will shed the protective granules when it is time for a roof repair or roof replacement. Perhaps you have noticed granules near your downspouts on the ground. Granules are added to shingles to serve a variety of purposes. They serve as a protective barrier against the elements and sun. Granules also aid in ensuring optimal energy efficiency. The severity of the granule loss is a determining factor regarding whether a homeowner should be concerned. The following points identify common causes of granule loss.
Defects
No product on the market can make claims to have never manufactured defective products. Roofing products are not any different. Sometimes a manufacturer defect can cause asphalt shingles to lose granules prematurely. Manufacturers will usually honor replacing defective shingles when the roofing materials are still covered by warranty. This is why it is imperative to adhere to the terms of your roofing material warranty. You should only opt for a professional roofing installation and get professional roof repairs by licensed roof contractors.
Inclement Weather
Certain types of severe weather can cause damage to asphalt shingles. Hailstones are a common threat to the integrity of shingles and can cause damage that results in granule loss. Sometimes storms that involve high winds can cause debris to become airborne and land on rooftops. The impact of the debris can cause damage to shingles. If there is severe weather in your area, it is wise to get a roof inspection performed after the events to assess for damage.
Age
All roofing materials come with an estimated lifespan. The lifespan of the shingles on your home will depend on the grade and manufacturer. At some point, homeowners should expect to need a new roof installation for certain types of roofing materials. The older that shingles get, the more brittle they become. This can make them more susceptible to damage and thus granule loss. Natural aging will also result in a deterioration of the shingles and present itself in the form of granule loss.
A roofing contractor is a good resource to use to determine the severity of granule loss. They can perform roof inspections and determine if roof repairs can correct the issue. The effective approach to correcting an issue of granule loss will depend on what is causing the problem. Certain issues such as aging will mean that homeowners should anticipate a new roof installation or reroof project in the near future.