One name stands out in Portland, OR—Best Choice Roofing! Whether you’re looking to repair your roof or upgrade to a more durable option, we’re proud to offer a wide range of high-quality asphalt shingles, including three-tab, architectural, premium, and impact-resistant shingles. Each option is designed to protect your home from the elements, ensuring that your roof not only looks fantastic but can stand the test of time, even in Portland’s rainy climate. But sometimes, no matter how well your shingles are installed, they can start to lose their granules. Granule loss is a sign of wear and tear that needs attention. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to identify granule loss on your roof and how to repair it.
1. Check for Bald Spots on Your Roof
The first sign of granule loss is often visible to the naked eye. Grab a pair of binoculars and take a look at your roof from a distance—especially in areas that get the most exposure to the sun, like the south side. Suppose you notice bald spots or places where the shingles look thinner; that indicates that granules are missing. The granules give your roof its color and texture so that the shingles can look dull and uneven without them. These bald spots may eventually lead to shingles becoming more vulnerable to sun, rain, or wind damage.
2. Inspect Your Gutters for Granules
A quick way to check if granules are washing off your shingles is by inspecting your gutters. When granules begin to shed, they often end up in the gutters and downspouts. If you notice a heavy build-up of granules in your gutter system, it could be a sign that your roof is experiencing significant granule loss. It’s not uncommon to find a small amount of granules in your gutters after a storm, but if they are consistently complete, it may be time to inspect your roof for more serious issues.
3. Look for Shingle Curling or Cracking
Granule loss can weaken the structure of your shingles, leading to other types of damage, like curling or cracking. Shingles with missing granules become more vulnerable to the elements, especially in Portland’s wet climate. If you spot shingles that are curling at the edges or developing cracks, it indicates that the granule loss is more than just a cosmetic issue. It’s a structural one that can compromise the integrity of your roof.
4. Evaluate How Old Your Roof Is
The age of your roof will definitely impact how much granule loss your roof has. Most asphalt roofs have a lifespan of about 20 to 30 years or so, depending on the quality of the shingles and the maintenance they’ve received. If your roof is nearing the end of its life and you’ve noticed granule loss, it may be time to start thinking about having a roof replacement. However, if your roof is relatively young and you’re seeing signs of granule loss, you may just need a repair rather than a full replacement.
5. Check for Water Damage Inside Your Home
While granule loss is an external issue, it can sometimes lead to more serious problems inside your home. If your shingles are no longer providing the full protection they once did, moisture can begin to seep in, causing water damage to your attic or ceilings. Keep an eye out for signs of water stains or leaks inside your home, particularly after a heavy rainstorm. If you notice any, it’s time to inspect your roof for granule loss or other potential issues.
Repairing Granule Loss
So, what can you do about granule loss? If you spot signs of granule loss, the best course of action is to have a professional roofing contractor come to assess the situation. In some cases, replacing the damaged shingles may be the best solution. However, if the damage is minor, you might be able to repair individual shingles without replacing the entire roof. At Best Choice Roofing, we can help you figure out the extent of the granule loss and provide the right repair solution to restore the integrity of your roof.
Don’t Wait—Get Your Portland, OR, Roof Checked Today!
Granule loss is a serious issue that can lead to more significant problems down the road. If you live in Portland and think your roof might be experiencing granule loss, don’t wait until the damage is irreversible. Contact Best Choice Roofing today for a comprehensive roof inspection. We’ll help you determine the best course of action and ensure your roof is ready to protect your home for years to come.
