How To Repair Granular Loss On Shingles

Roof shingles are built to withstand the elements, but over time, they wear down. One of the most common issues homeowners face with asphalt shingles is granular loss. Those granules you see on shingles aren’t just there for looks, they also protect your roof from UV damage, weathering, and more.

If you’ve ever noticed granules collecting in your gutters or found bare patches on your shingles, you’ve probably experienced granular loss. This may not feel like a big deal to you at first, but the longer you ignore it the more damage your roof will suffer. 

This is why it’s important to handle the problem as soon as possible if you notice granules in your backyard or on your gutters.  Not sure what to do? Don’t worry, our experience can help you. In the following blog post, we share what granule loss is, and how you can repair granular loss on shingles. 

What Are Shingle Granules? 

We understand that not everyone has extensive knowledge of roofing materials, so, let’s start by addressing what shingle granules are. 

Almost all the asphalt roof shingles on the market are typically made up of three layers: a fiberglass or asphalt base, a waterproof asphalt layer, and the top layer, which consists of small, mineral granules. These mineral granules are often combined with crushed stone, or sometimes ceramic, giving color and enhancing durability to the asphalt shingle. 

But they do much more than provide color, they also protect the shingle from the sun’s UV rays, help regulate your home’s temperature, and provide some fire resistance.

Over time, certain factors can cause these shingles to wear out. For example: 

• Age: As shingles get older, they naturally lose granules. This is a natural process that even the most durable shingles have to go through. 
• Weather: Harsh weather conditions in Mississippi are the biggest enemies of your shingles. High winds and hail can easily knock granules loose.
• Foot traffic: Walking on your roof for maintenance or other reasons can loosen the granules.
• Poor installation or low-quality materials: If your shingles weren’t installed properly or were of poor quality, granular loss can happen prematurely.

It’s normal for some granules to come loose, especially after a storm or as your roof ages, but when the loss becomes noticeable or widespread, it’s time to take action.

How To Identify Shingle Granule Loss

So, how do you know if your shingles are suffering from granular loss? One of the easiest ways to spot granular loss is by cleaning your gutters. If you find a lot of small, sand-like particles in there, that’s a sign your shingles are shedding their granules. However there are other signs too: 

• Look for bare patches: Granules give shingles their texture. If you see shiny spots on your roof, it means the granules have worn away and the underlying asphalt is exposed.
• Inspect your shingles for cracking or curling: Granular loss often leads to shingles becoming brittle and starting to crack or curl at the edges.

Steps to Repair Granular Loss

If you’ve determined that repairs are necessary, follow these steps to fix your shingles:

Step 1: Take Care Of Your Safety: 

Before climbing up on your roof, make sure you’re prepared. Wear non-slip shoes, and if possible, work on a dry, cool day to avoid overheating or slipping. Ensure that you have a sturdy ladder, and someone who can hold it steady while you climb. 

Step 2: Clean the Area

 Once you’re on the roof, inspect the areas with granular loss. Clear away any debris like dirt, leaves, or moss with a soft brush. This will help ensure that the sealant adheres properly.

Step 3: Apply Roofing Sealant

Granules can never be replaced once they are lost. However, you can take steps to protect the exposed areas and slow down further granule loss. For this, you’ll need a specialized roof sealant or primer designed for asphalt shingles. 

Apply this product carefully to the areas where granules have fallen off. This serves two purposes: it protects the exposed asphalt underneath and helps prevent further granule loss. By doing this, you’re extending the life of your shingles and maintaining your roof’s protective layer. Remember to follow the product instructions and work safely when on your roof.

Step 4: Replace The Shingle

Sealant will delay the aging but it is better that you replace the worn out shingle with a replacement shingle. Carefully remove the damaged shingle by prying up the nails with a flat pry bar. Be cautious not to disturb the surrounding shingles. Once the nails are removed, lift the shingle out and dispose of it properly.

Position the new shingle in place, aligning it with the surrounding shingles. Secure it using roofing nails, placing them in the same spots as the original shingle.

What If There Are More Shingles Losing Granules? 

If the damage is severe and the granule loss is excessive, it is not advisable, or even cost-effective to repair granule loss by replacing individual shingles.  At this stage, it is better to replace the entire roofing system altogether.  

Also Read: How Do You Replace Missing Shingles?

When Should You Call A Professional?

Sometimes DIY methods just aren’t enough. If the granular loss is widespread or you notice signs of deeper damage, like leaks or significant cracking, it might be best to call a professional roofer. They can assess the extent of the damage and recommend whether repairs or a full replacement is needed.

Hiring a pro comes with benefits like:

• Expertise: They can quickly identify issues that might not be obvious.
• Safety: Roofing work is dangerous. Professionals have the right equipment and training.
• Long-lasting solutions: Pros often offer warranties and use high-quality materials.

If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to get a second opinion from a professional roofer. 

Seeing Excessive Granular Loss? We Can Help! 

Granular loss on shingles is a common issue, but it’s not one to ignore. If you constantly find that your shingles have loose granules, it’s time to get in touch with experts at B&A Roofing  
We are your premier shingle roofing experts in Mississippi. Whether you want to repair shingle damage or replace your existing shingles, we do it all. Contact us today at (601) 520-3183 to learn more.