How to Repair Granular Loss on Your Roof: A Step-by-Step Guide

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An effective roof is necessary to save your house against water and extreme weather damages and energy waste. Granular loss on asphalt shingles is one of the problems that many homeowners experience. Granular loss may cause leaks, shorter life time of your roof and expensive repairs in case it is not addressed. This guide will describe the definition of granular loss, its causes and how it may be repaired effectively.

What is Granular Loss on a Roof?

Asphalt shingles have small granules which make them resistant to UV radiation, bad weather conditions, and physical damages. When these protective granules are worn out on the surface, this results in granular loss which reveals the underlying asphalt layer. In the long run, the non-gravelly shingles get brittle, crack and can lead to water percolating into your house.

Signs of granular loss include:

• Bare spots on shingles
• Piling of granules in gutters or down-spouts
• Cracked or curling shingles
• Roof looking old and worn out at a distance.

Recognizing granular loss early can save you from more extensive and expensive repairs.

Common Causes of Granular Loss

Understanding why shingles lose their granules can help prevent future damage. 

Some common causes include:

Roof Age: The expected roof life of Asphalt shingles is 20-25 years. Naturally, granules wear out.

Weather Damage: Hail, heavy rain, wind, and UV rays may increase the speed of loss of the granules.

Improper Installation: Shingles that are improperly installed can lose granules at an earlier rate than anticipated.

Algae and Moss Growth: This may lock down moisture and corrode the shingles.

Foot Traffic: The act of walking on the roof without due care may loosen off the granules.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before starting a repair, gather the necessary tools and materials. This will make the process safer and more efficient.

Materials:

• Asphalt roofing cement
• Roofing nails
• Shingles (where necessary), replacement
• Roof sealant.

Tools:

• Ladder
• Hammer
• Utility knife
• Roof brush or broom
• Work gloves.

Step-by-Step Guide to Repair Granular Loss

Here’s how to repair granular loss on your roof safely and effectively.

Step 1: Inspect Your Roof

Begin by making a close examination of your roof to identify areas that lacked granules. Check with the preliminary check with the help of a pair of binoculars or climb a ladder when safe. 

Look for:

• Bare patches on shingles
• Granules obtained in gutters.
• Cracked or curling shingles

Record these positions so that you can organize your repair work.

Step 2: Clean the Damaged Area

Wash the shingles and then apply any repair material over it before applying it. 

Remove:

• Loose granules
• Leftovers like leaves, sticks and dirt.

This can be done with a roof brush or a broom. Cleaning will help to make sure that the roofing cement or sealant is sticking.

Step 3: Apply Roofing Cement

Roofing cement can be useful in small-scale granular loss. 

Here’s how to use it:

• Apply a coat of roofing cement on the bare areas.
• Loose granules of old shingles can be sprinkled, or matching granules may be bought in a roofing supply store.
• Gently press the granules in the cement.
• Let it dry thoroughly which is normally 24 hours.

This is a technique that prolongs the life of the shingle and prevents additional degradation.

Step 4: Replace Severely Damaged Shingles

In case shingles are broken, curled or have too few granules then replacing them is the best choice. 

Follow these steps:

• Lift the shingle that is broken using a flat pry bar.
• Take off nails that are used to secure the shingle.
• Insert another shingle.
• Fasten it with nails and coated the nails using roofing cement.
• Ensure that the new shingle fits in with other roofing.

The replacement of damaged shingles will guarantee a lasting repair process compared to patching.

Step 5: Seal the Area

Repair and then cover the area that is patched with a thin coat of roof sealant. Sealant gives an additional water protection and ensures that the granules are not washed away.

Step 6: Inspect Your Gutters

When it sheds off the roof, granules are likely to build up in gutters. 

Clean your gutters to:

• Prevent clogs
• Determine the level of loss of the granules
• Prevent water damage of the foundation of your house
• Periodic gutter cleaning will also inform you about the early problems of the roof.

Tips to Prevent Future Granular Loss

Repairing granular loss is only part of maintaining a healthy roof, Here are some preventive tips:

Periodical Checks: You should inspect your roof on a regular basis, twice a year, particularly following storms.

Cut Overhanging Trees: The shingles can be worn out faster by falling branches and debris.

Minimize Pedestrian Traffic: Walk on marked places in case you have to get to the roof.

Fix Leaks As soon as they occur: Cases of small leaks can aggravate the loss of granularity and destroy the underlying structures.

Consider Roof Coating: Coating the roof with a reflective coating would help to prevent the shingles damage on UV and extend their durability.

When to Call a Professional

While minor granular loss can be repaired by homeowners, certain situations require professional attention:

• Decades of shingle damage on a large-scale level.
• Severe leaks or water damage
• Steeply sloping roofs or unstable ones.
• Roofs that are of old age and approaching their expiry.

Professional roofing contractors can inspect, repair, or replace shingles safely and efficiently.