Are your gutters full of shingle granules and you’re not sure why? You can rest assured that this is a common issue. Most homeowners may see the signs even before they know what’s causing them an overflow of granules at the downspout or clogged gutters containing large pieces of asphalt roofing shingles.
But don’t worry knowing more about why these bits are falling from your roof can help you make better decisions for your home and its maintenance needs in the future. Read on to learn all about why your gutters might be accumulating those pesky little granules, plus measures you can take to ensure any long-term effects are minimized.
Why are my Gutters Full of Shingle Granules?
Shingle granules can be a common occurrence in your gutters, especially if you have an asphalt roof. As the shingles age, they begin to break down over time, releasing small granules into the air and onto your roof which then collect in the gutter. It’s important to regularly check and clean out your gutters of any debris or buildup of materials this includes the presence of shingle granules.
While not dangerous, these small pieces can easily clog your gutters causing water build-up and eventually damage to your home’s foundation. By cleaning out your gutters at least twice a year, you’ll ensure that shingle granules don’t create any serious problems for your rainwater runoff system.
How do you Prevent Debris in Gutters?
Precautionary maintenance is the best way to ensure your gutters do not get filled with debris. Regularly cleaning and inspecting gutters, removing any leaves or other clogging material, and utilizing a gutter protection system are all effective ways to prevent clogging. Depending on the type of roof on your home, you may need to consider a higher-grade of gutter protection system if you live in an area with lots of wind or heavy storms.
Copper mesh, foam inserts, and gutter guards are all good options that can help keep debris from entering your gutters. With these precautions, you can help ensure that your gutters stay functioning properly for years to come.
What Causes Granule Loss on a Roof?
An increasing loss of granules on a roof is a common sign of wear and age. The granules are lost due to several factors, including rain or wind damage, rooftop traffic, standing water, and poor or aged underlayment. Over time, the sun’s UV rays cause the protective layer of asphalt shingles to break down and become brittle, exposing the underlying asphalt granules that provide texture, color, and protection to your roof.
Standing water weakens shingle backing adhesive while wind excessive wind can bust off entire tabs of shingles. In addition, poor or aged underlayment can lead to fading roofing surfaces due to degradation from weather conditions like ultraviolet ray exposure or aging from ozone contamination from car exhaust as well as extreme temperatures changes over time.
Does Granular Loss Mean I Need a New Roof?
If you’ve noticed granular loss on your roof, you may be wondering whether or not a new roof is in your future. It depends; if the granular loss is caused by heavy hail and severe weather, it likely indicates a much-needed replacement. On the other hand, if the loose granules are sitting in a few spots around the edges of the roof, it’s possibly just normal wear and tear and a simple repair may be all that’s needed.
To avoid guessing and ensure that your roof receives the care it needs, contact an experienced professional right away for an inspection; they will be happy to let you know what the best course of action is.
What are the Signs of a Roof Collapse?
Collapses of residential and commercial roofs are a serious problem. Signs to look out for that could indicate your roof is at risk of collapsing include visible sagging, water pooling on the roof, creaking noises when you walk above the roof’s interior, signs of interior wear and tear due to water damage, and gaps or cracks in the wood structure of the roof.
Even if you do not observe these signs it is still important to have your roof inspected regularly by an experienced roofer, as many of these warning signs may only be evident after part or all of a roof has already collapsed. Don’t wait until it’s too late; regular inspections can ensure that your roof is safe and secure.
How do you Fix Granule Loss on Shingles?
Replacing granules on your shingles can be a daunting task, but with the right supplies, it doesn’t have to be. To replace granules lost from asphalt shingles, you’ll need pocketed roof cement, a putty knife or trowel, a broom, and the same type of asphalt granules that were originally used. Applying roof cement to the affected area will ensure that the new granules are going to stay in place for years to come.
Start by applying a thin layer of roof cement over the area where granules were lost using the putty knife or trowel, then sprinkle the new asphalt granules over the cement and pat down lightly with the broom. That’s all there is to it if done properly, your shingles can continue to protect your home for years.
What Happens When Shingles Loose Granules?
When shingles begin to lose granules, the underlying asphalt begins to be exposed. This increases the risk of water penetration which can cause damage to the roof deck and rafters beneath it. Furthermore, a lack of granules results in less protection from UV rays which can lead to the drying out and cracking of shingles.
In extreme cases, the asphalt will become brittle and flake off resulting in an increased likelihood of leakages that can cause damage to the structure and interior fixtures within a building. As such, it’s important to inspect your roof periodically and make sure that it is free from granule loss as this helps protect against water penetration, and UV exposure as well as ensures that your roof continues functioning properly for years to come.
Conclusion:
If you notice your gutters full of shingle granules, it’s time to have your roof replaced. Shingle granules protect your roof from the sun and other elements, so when they start appearing in your gutters, it means that they’re no longer doing their job. A new roof will not only improve the appearance of your home but will also help protect it from the elements.
