Shingle Granule Loss: What It Means for Your Roofing System

Asphalt shingles continue to be the most popular roofing material of choice among homeowners because of their versatility, durability and affordability. However, like any other roofing material, it is not without its issues that commonly manifest as they age.

One of the things you have to keep an eye out for is the loss of their protective granules.

In this blog, local residential and commercial roofing contractor Deschutes Roofing & Insulation explains what shingle granule loss tells you about your roof and gutters.

Shingle Granules in a Nutshell

The granules on the surface of every asphalt shingle are embedded into the hot asphalt during the manufacturing process, forming a final layer that provides the roofing material color and fire resistance. With these in place, they help protect your roof against the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet rays, as well as the impact of other elements like strong winds and rain.

About Shingle Granule Wear

Granule loss is an indicator of normal wear and tear. Some can even get dislodged during residential roofing installations. These are the extra granules that didn’t embed fully into the material during manufacturing. After a few years after your roof is installed, you’ll begin to notice some of them scattered around your yard or collecting in your gutters. Fortunately, that shouldn’t be a cause for concern because it is a part of the roof’s aging process.

Excess granule loss can be observed when your roof is approaching the end of its lifespan. Once you see bald patches on the large part of the roof surface, you must get in touch with your local roofer as soon as possible for an inspection. Granules will also collect and clog your gutters, so be sure to have them removed.

Deschutes Roofing & Insulation is a veteran-owned and family-owned and -operated company offering high-quality roofing products and services.

We install asphalt shingle and metal roofing systems, as well as perform snow and ice dam removal. Give us a call at (503) 928-8750 (Beaverton) or (503) 967-9590 (Portland). You may also fill out our contact form to request a free estimate.

We were very pleased with our service. We got three different estimates and we went with Deschutes Roofing. We also had a personal recommendation from friends. The roof was actually installed very quickly and efficiently. The crew was very … read more Response from business owner Deborah, I enjoyed meeting with you today for the final inspection. Thank you so much for the kind review. We appreciate your business!

Deborah M.

We had an excellent experience with Carlos and the team at Deschutes Roofing. Dave conducted a thorough inspection of our roofing needs, answered our questions, and provided a detailed appraisal with a range of options. Laurie provided … read more Response from business owner Kris, thank you for your kind compliments. We appreciate your business and really enjoyed working with you!

Kris B.

Very professional. Recommend them highly. Prompt, well done. Response from business owner Thanks, Jo!

Jo U.

Had winter damage due to heavy snow. Then an inspection of my roof revealed defects when installed by original roofer. Carlos was very responsive to my needs and required repairs were completed quickly.

Michael M.

Thanks to Deschutes Roofing Co. for a smooth and proffesional job done. Between scheduling flexibility and consideration of conditions, Carlos and his crew felt like family

David P.

We got in touch with Carlos on a Saturday desperate for help with our ice dams, as we had water actively running into the house. He got a crew together for us the next day.

Barbrina D.

Needed some minor roof and gutter repairs for which Deschutes Roofing was perfect. Excellent evaluation of problems followed up by reasonable price and good work. Pleasant to work with and on time as well.

Cat B.