At Best Choice Roofing, we believe in the power of prevention, and that starts with taking great care of your roof and home. Your roof isn’t just something that keeps the rain out; it’s your home’s first line of defense against the elements. One of the biggest issues we see? Roof granule loss in Richmond, VA.
Those tiny little granules on your shingles might not seem like a big deal, but trust us—they’re doing a lot of heavy lifting. Granules help to protect your shingles from harsh UV rays, add an extra level of fire resistance, and even help control the temperature inside your home. When they start to wear off, it can lead to serious problems down the road, like leaks, cracked shingles, and a roof that ages faster than it should.
But don’t worry—we’ve got your back! Here are five easy, effective ways to protect your roof from granule loss over time:
1. Keep Those Gutters Clean
Clogged gutters aren’t just a hassle—they’re a roof’s worst nightmare. When leaves and debris pile up, water backs up under your shingles, leading to premature granule loss. Especially in Richmond’s leaf-heavy fall season, it’s essential to clean out your gutters at least twice a year.
2. Say No to Pressure Washing
We get it—everyone loves a clean roof. But blasting your shingles with a high-powered hose is like giving your roof a sandblasting treatment. It may look clean, but you’ll end up stripping off those all-important granules. Instead, opt for a soft-wash roof cleaning method that uses gentle solutions to remove dirt and algae without damaging your shingles.
3. Schedule Regular Roof Inspections
An annual roof inspection is like a checkup for your home. It gives pros (like us!) the chance to catch early signs of granule loss before it turns into a bigger problem. We’ll look for bald spots on shingles, clogged valleys, or early signs of wear and tear caused by Richmond’s wild weather—everything from scorching summer heat to icy winter storms.
4. Trim Those Trees
Overhanging branches may look picturesque, but they can cause major issues for your roof. When branches scrape against your shingles, they slowly wear away the granules. Not to mention, falling limbs during storms can cause sudden, serious damage. Keep trees trimmed at least 6–10 feet away from your roofline to stay safe and granule-friendly.
5. Don’t Ignore Algae and Moss
Those dark streaks on your roof? That’s not just dirt—it’s probably algae or moss, both of which love Richmond’s humid climate. If left untreated, they can break down your shingles and accelerate granule loss. Use a gentle moss and algae treatment (or call in the pros!) to keep your roof clean without causing damage.
Protect Now, Save Later
Your roof is one of the biggest investments in your home, so why not treat it that way? At Best Choice Roofing, we’re here to help you extend the life of your roof, protect your shingles, and keep those granules exactly where they belong.
Need a roof inspection or just want to talk options for maintenance? Give us a call today or visit our website to schedule your free inspection. Let’s keep your Richmond roof strong, safe, and granule-packed for years to come!
