Check the gutter for an accumulation of colored granules that have washed down the roof from the shingles.
Roof missing granules.
The granules are what keep the roof weather proofed and without them your shingles are no match for the elements.
Prolonged exposure to hail can also loosen granules.
With older roofs even marble size hail may loosen granules.
Roofs where most granules have disappeared are usually old enough to need some type of roof repair.
This makes the shingle more acceptable to uv damage which leads to brittleness cracking.
Steeper roofs shed water faster and the same asphalt shingle on a low slope roof wears out faster than on a steep roof.
A large pile of granules at the end of your downspout.
A distinct pattern of small round shaped divots on the edges of the shingles.
Then gather some into a small cup and sprinkle them over the sealant to mask the repair.
Over time the bond between the granules and asphalt deteriorates and granules will be loosened and carried away by runoff.
There are quite a few things you can do to extend the life of asphalt shingles.
Missing granules granules can become loose and fall off for a number of reasons.
A small amount is normal especially on new shingles.
Our advice is to go outside and take a look at the shingles on your roof.
A new roof is a pricey proposition.
It s a good idea to climb up on your roof and carefully inspect your shingles for missing granules.
Moss holds moisture against the roof surface and overtime in freezing climates can cause damage to the granules on the top of the shingles.
However if you notice a lot of granules in your downspouts or gutters after a hail storm you could have hail damage on your asphalt shingles.
Roof box vent with hail damage.
Though age is the most common cause of granule loss there are several other factors that can contribute to the premature loss of this protective coating.
Roof granule loss due to normal aging occurs over the life of an asphalt shingle roof as weather and sun exposure cause the roof shingle to lose its flexibility as the roof is exposed to changing temperatures etc.
Granule loss which is uniform across the roof is usually a result of normal weathering.
Take care not to damage the shingle surface.
The bond holding the embedded granules gradually begins to degrade and releases the granules.
The first thing is to increase the roof pitch.
Indentations in the shingle where granules are missing.
This thermal expansion and contraction can lead to granule loss and cracking over time.
You may need to contact a professional roofing contractor.
These simple repairs can keep your existing roof sound for years to come.
Severe weather such as heavy rain hail or strong winds can also knock your granules loose.
As your roof ages it s completely normal to lose some granular textures.