How To Deal With Loose Roofing Granules
The granule layer is the outermost layer of typical asphalt shingles. Its the part that gives the shingles their features, such as color and reflectivity. More than a few homeowners are concerned about granules falling from their roofs, but is it really something about which you should worry?
Should You Be Worried?
Granules from asphalt shingles are made of crushed stone and minerals. Roofing manufacturers can produce granules of any color. Shingles with plain colors are typically made with one granule color while laminate shingles feature blends of two or more granule colors. As the roof ages, some of these granules come loose its not uncommon to find some of them in the rainwater runoff merely weeks after installation. For the most part, granule loss isnt something that you should be worried about as its part of normal roofing wear and tear.
That said, you may need to call for a roof repair contractor if youre finding a lot of these granules in the gutter runoff. Chances are you may also find a significant deposit of granules in the gutters. Losing granules at that rate can indicate premature wear and tear.
What You Can Do About Loose Granules
Ultimately, what you dont want to end up with is a roof thats stripped of its granules or what is commonly referred to as bald shingles. If the asphalt layer underneath the granules is exposed, the shingles become vulnerable to ultraviolet rays and other environmental factors.
Dangers Of A Roof Leak
Missing roof shingles, or even those damaged shingles that annoy you whenever you see them, are more than just eyesores. If they irritate you already, you would surely be even more exasperated when you finally experience one of their known side effects roof leaks.
Having a roof leak is more than just dealing with those continuous dripping sounds that sometimes wake you up in the middle of the night. Or keeping an eye on the buckets you used to catch the water falling and replacing them with an empty one when full. Or mopping up your floors that got wet every now and then.
Just thinking about all that is enough to make anyone feel tired.
But, this is not something that you need to dwell on. You should know that leaks are also dangerous.
Dont believe us? Here are some things that might happen if you decide to not deal with them immediately:
Accidents
Slippery when wet signs were made for a good reason anyone can get into accidents caused by wet floors.
Being embarrassed when you slip and fall down is the least of your worries. Youre looking at the very real possibility of:
- broken bones
Scary, isnt it?
Damage to Your Ceiling or Attic
You can also expect to have all sorts of issues with your ceiling or attic, including your stuff or fixtures there, if you choose to delay resolving the roof leaks. After all, these parts of your home are the first to be affected by it.
Mold Growth
Getting professionals to remove the mold infestation is going to cost a pretty penny.
Wood Rot
The Roof Repair Process
When replacing damaged asphalt roofing shingles, you can replace an entire strip which typically spans 3-feet by 1-foot. You can also cut the shingle into sections and replace just a single tab. If any part of the damaged shingle remains on the roof, insert a putty knife under it to break the seal. A flat bar can then be used to pry up the damaged shingles and remove any remaining nails holding them in place.
If you are removing just one damaged tab, use a utility knife to cut off the damaged tab. Once the damaged piece is removed, slide the new shingle strip or tab into its proper place. You want to secure the new shingle under the shingle that is above it with roofing nails. With the replacement shingle in place, carefully lift the tab and apply a small dab of roofing cement to help seal the shingle to the roof. Be sure to check the condition of your roof in the days following the roof repair job. If any of the shingles start to lift, apply more tar.
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Risks Of Diy Roof Repair
While do-it-yourself roof repair can be a cost-effective option for the mastered DIYer, it is not safe for the average homeowner. Many risks come with DIY roof repair, starting with improper repairs. Without sufficient roof repair knowledge and experience, you may not install the new shingles properly, which can lead to more problems down the road. When roof shingles are not installed properly, you may find that they lift, leak, or even fall off during the next windstorm. This type of mistake can cost you more money in the long run.
There are also certain safety concerns to be aware of when performing DIY roof repairs. You already know that walking on your roof can be a dangerous endeavor. A roof repair can become even more dangerous if you attempt to perform a repair when it is windy, rainy, or when the roof is slick with wet leaves or debris. Hauling heavy shingles and nails up a ladder can also pose a safety hazard. Other safety concerns come from the use of unfamiliar materials or equipment. In addition, any repairs you make yourself will generally not be covered by a warranty.
What Causes Roof Shingles To Lose Granules
If there is a defect in the shingle, the most common symptom will be blistering. Blistering occurs when pockets of moisture from inside the asphalt layer and as the moisture expands and contracts if forms the blisters. As your roof ages and endures a series of weather events, it will naturally begin to lose granules.
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What Can Happen If You Dont Replace A Missing Shingle
Will your roof leak with just one missing shingle? Maybe. Just because you lose a shingle or two doesnt mean water will immediately drip from your ceiling. However, such a missing shingle could cause issues over time if the surrounding shingles deteriorate from exposure to water, wind and sunlight. And the older your roof is, the greater the chances are for progressive leak damage.
The reason its important to fix a roofing leak right away is because it can lead to damage inside your home, such as to the attic, crawlspace, ceilings, and insulation. Worse still, you may not find this interior water damage until it progresses and requires extensive repairs. To avoid water damage in your home, replace missing shingles as soon as you are aware of them.
Dealing With Water Damage If It Occurs
One of your roofs jobs is to keep rain from entering your home. If water starts to penetrate through the roof, then you have a problem. Leave it long enough and it may lead to water damage.
Water damage isnt to be taken lightly. For one thing, it can lead to mold growth or structural damage or both.
Here are things you can do the moment you see signs of water damage.
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Gather Materials To Replace Roof Shingles
Heres what you need to replace loose or missing shingles safely :
- Hammer
- Roofing Nails
- Shingle Sealant
- Replacement Shingles did the builder or the previous homeowner leave any leftover shingles behind? If not, head to a home center to find the same type of shingles that match up in color and size. You can grab the other materials you need as well if you dont have them already handy at home.
Does It Matter If Its A Whole Shingle Or Part Of A Shingle Missing
No. When your roof sustains damage, it doesnt really matter if it affects whole shingles or just parts of them. Some asphalt shingles are tabbed with three sections, and sometimes, one tab gets ripped off by intense weather. But its usually not possible to repair an individual shingle, so either way, that shingle needs to be replaced.
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Damage Caused By Roof Leaks
Roof leaks can cause numerous problems in your home. If left untended for a long time, a roof leak may pose safety and health risks to yourself and your loved ones. If youre not in a rush to get your leaking roof fixed, reading up on the potential consequences of a leaking roof may just spring you into action.
Roof leaks can damage your home in the following ways:
Seven Reseal The Shingles
- Lastly, remember breaking all those shingle-to-shingle sealant bonds? Well, although the new roof shingle will likely seal to adjacent shingles in time with enough sun warmth, it is recommended to manually seal the new shingle in place now. Merely apply three small spots of asphalt plastic roof cement under the new shingles tabs, evenly spaced along the shingle length, and press the shingle flat down into place.
- Seal down any surrounding shingles that may have had their sealant bond separated in the same way. This ensures the roofs wind resistance will continue as before, uninterrupted.
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Quick Fix For A Roof Leak
You can temporarily solve a roof leak quickly and easily, using a 12-by-12-inch piece of galvanized sheet metal roof repair flashing, available at most home improvement centers.
In dry weather, lift the damaged shingle with one hand while you slip the sheet metal flashing up underneath it to cover the hole.
Its usually necessary to pry up one or more roofing nails in the row above the missing or damaged shingle so you can push the flashing all the way up under the course above the leak.
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Cost Of Shingle Replacement
Most homeowners use shingles as the material for their roofing needs. No surprise there. After all, shingles are known for their durability, low cost, easy installation, and availability.
But make no mistake, having your roof shingles replaced can be costly, especially if they are made of expensive material.
Here are the factors involved in the cost of replacing roof shingles.
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How To Repair Holes In Wood Siding
For repairs that will match natural-wood siding, youll want to use stainable wood putty. If you intend to paint the patched area to match the siding, use pre-mixed bridging and patching compound, sold at paint stores and home improvement centers. Test your touch-up paint beforehand to make sure you have a good match.
Follow the label directions. With most wood putty fillers, you:
1Remove any loose material from the hole, and brush the hole clean, using a stiff bristle brush.
2Apply the filler with a putty knife. Small holes require only one application. Large or deep holes call for building up the patch with several layers, allowing each to dry before applying the next.
3Sand the surface. Begin with coarse sandpaper and work your way to a finer grit. Then the patch to match the rest of the siding.
Why To Hire Professional Roofers To Replace Missing Shingles
Roofers dont just do large replacements. They also perform small repairs such as replacing missing shingles. One benefit of hiring professional roofers is they can find replacement shingles that match the color and texture of the originals. They can also install new shingles without disturbing the surrounding area of the roof. And if your roof has other leaks or issues, these will be found during the inspection and can be fixed to avoid future damage.
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Contact Smartroof For Roof Repair Or Replacement
Every homeowner should know how to repair roof shingles that have blown off as part of their homeowner maintenance checklist.
But if need a free estimate or youd like us to help you replace your blown-off shingles as the result of storm damage, please give us a call. Our experienced roofers will get the job done in no time.
Metal Shingles Leak Overview
Metal shingles provide a durable, lightweight option for homes not designed for a heavy roof, like tiles. In contrast to fiberglass/asphalt, these shingles can often be used on low slope roofs making locating leaks easier.Finding leaks caused by physical damage on a metal roof is also fairly simple. Generally speaking, metal shingles will not cause a leak unless obvious damage or decay is present. This is why many metal shingles carry up to a 50-year warranty.
If the shingles have been obviously damaged by a falling tree limb or another heavy object, the leak can sometimes appear much smaller than it is. This is because leaks can be caused by the tiniest of perforations. For example, if violent physical damage occurs via a falling object, it can loosen, but not detach, the surrounding shingles which will lead to eventual failure.Therefore, it is a good idea to check any shingles within a 24 circumference of the leak. Metal shingles tend not to flex, so impacts tend to bounce off, rather than be absorbed. This can cause small leaks after an impact that is tough to locate and may simply be a loose tack.
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The Ultimate Guide To Roof Repair Phoenix Az
If the roof is young, these damages might be an indication that the roof is faulty. to deciding. Loose shingle granules, visible on the roof and in the gutters are a sign that the shingles are damaged. If an area of the roofing has a spongy texture when walked on, the roofing system is likely harmed.
Follow these preventative actions to assist keep your roof healthy. If you find items of concern throughout your assessments, find a certified roofer. Examine for indications of leakages. Look inside at the ceiling straight under the roofing, usually the attic if your house has one. Securely clear off any particles.
Eliminate overhanging branches. Trim any branches closer than 10 feet from your roofing system. This will help avoid branches falling on your roof throughout a storm and keep rodents and squirrels from climbing up onto your roof. Replace any missing, loose, or damaged shingles right away. My Roofing Was Harmed in a Storm.
This timeline will stroll you through the normal procedure: Do a preliminary inspection, instantly after the storm. Examine the exterior and interior and take pictures of any damage. Call your insurance coverage provider as soon as possible to discover how to make a claim. Search for a recognized roof repair professionals.
How To Repair Roof Shingles Blown Off By A Storm
Roofing shingles are meant to hold up to the elements. However, even the best quality shingles can blow off during a storm. Harsh winds can weaken nails allowing shingles to come loose and fly off the roof. Shingles tend to be heavy, so they can cause more damage when they fall onto another structure or into a window. If your roof has missing shingles due to a storm, it is important to know how to repair roof shingles blown off and fix them before the damage gets worse.
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How Often Should You Replace Your Roof Shingles
Any damage or signs of wear call for immediate action to keep water from seeping under the shingles and rotting the wood sheathing beneath. Ignoring a problemeven what appears to be a small onewill accelerate the need to reroof and can add hundreds of dollars to the cost of a new roof.
Pro2Pro Tip: Always make roof repairs on a warm, dry afternoon the shingles will be more supple and less likely to crack. And never climb onto a roof thats wet, icy or covered with morning dew.
If your roof is more than 20 years old and most of the shingles are damaged or badly worn, its time to replace it. But if your roof is basically sound and is at a relatively shallow pitch that youre comfortable working on, you can probably handle most repairs yourself.
Here, well take you through the three most-common ones: replacing asphalt shingles gluing down a badly curled shingle and repairing shingles that have cracked.
How To Repair Or Replace Blown Off Roof Shingles
No matter how durable wooden and asphalt shingles can be, they can still be blown away. Before this happens to you, you should arm yourself with the know-hows of fixing them, even if you get a roofer to do it. That way, youre prepared the next time it happens. Lets hope it doesnt come to that, though.
And if it has already happened to you, its not an excuse for you to skip this part.
If your roofer believes that you dont have to entirely replace your roof just yet, consider yourself lucky. Repairs wont cost you that much and the work will be done pretty quickly.
Since this is a tricky task for both the asphalt and wooden shingles, it is best left to the capable hands of professionals. Unless you are willing to risk thousands of dollars, dont attempt this job on your own even seasoned DIYers acknowledge that any kind of work on the roof is challenging.
Wooden Shingle
For wooden shingles that have been blown off, heres how they are replaced:
Asphalt Shingle
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