Asphalt shingles are one of the most common types of roof materials. That being said, most homeowners don’t know too much about them. They don’t know why they come covered in a ceramic gravel type substance, and they don’t know what to do if they start losing these granules.
The granules present on asphalt shingles are little bits of ceramic that were put in place to protect the shingle and your roof. They work to keep UV rays off the asphalt itself as well as protect the shingle. In fact, those who have shingles with very little of these granules left are probably in need of a roof replacement.
A common occurrence, however, is a homeowner going to clean their gutters and noticing a stunning amount of these granules in there. If you just had your roof replaced, this shedding is normal. Not all granules are attached to the shingle and it is only natural for some to fall off after installation. Similarly, if you are checking after a big storm, particularly a hail storm, a little shedding is to be expected.
When you need to worry is if your roof is older and you see shedding. If there is very little reason for the shedding or if there is only a few specks of granules left on your shingles, you will want a roofing replacement sooner rather than later. These little ceramic pieces are integral to a shingle and its protection of your roof. So they are no longer there, the shingles are no longer protected from the elements.
If you have noticed significant granule shedding on your roof, contact a roofing professional. A roofing inspection can tell you how long your roof has left and what, if anything, you can do to prolong its life. Roofing replacement is expensive, but it is necessary when your roof gets to an advanced age.
If you are having a residential roof that is shedding granules or is manifesting other issues, contact us today to see what Vera Roofing & Construction can do to help.