Shingle Problems
Why are my shingles losing granules?
Short answer
Granules shed as the asphalt underneath dries out and loses its grip on them. A modest amount in the gutters is normal aging; bare patches of black mat mean the shingle has lost its UV protection and is deteriorating fast. Granule loss is the most common reason homeowners start looking at rejuvenation.
What granules do
The ceramic granules are the shingle's sunscreen and its fire and impact protection. Under them is asphalt that degrades quickly in direct UV. When granules go, the asphalt is exposed, it dries faster, and the loss accelerates.
Normal vs. concerning
- Normal: fine granule sediment in gutters, heavier in the first year and again with age
- Normal: slightly lighter, more mottled color across the field
- Concerning: distinct bare patches showing black mat
- Concerning: piles of granules at the base of downspouts every rain
- Concerning: granule loss concentrated below a valley or vent, which suggests water is channeling
Where rejuvenation fits
A treatment can't put granules back. What it can do is restore flexibility to a shingle that is drying out, which slows further loss on a roof that hasn't yet gone bare. If the mat is already exposed across slopes, the roof needs replacing and we'll tell you that.
See if your roof qualifies
Six quick questions about your roof, and an honest read on whether rejuvenation is likely to be a fit for it.
2-minute self-check
Answer six questions from the ground.
This won't replace an on-roof inspection, but your answers shape the recommendation you'll get at the end — including when rejuvenation isn't the right call. "Not sure" is a fine answer.
1.Is your roof roughly 8–25 years old?
2.Do you have any active leaks or interior water stains?
3.Are there shingles missing, cracked through, or hard-curled in sections?
4.Do you see granules collecting in gutters, or fading and dry-looking shingles?
5.Do any roof planes sag, or does the decking feel soft?
6.Does the roof have more than one layer of shingles?
0 of 6 answered — your personalized result appears when you finish.
Before you replace — see if you qualify.
A free roof assessment tells you whether your asphalt shingles still have serviceable life. If they don't, we'll say so and point you to a roofer we trust.