Shingle Granule Loss
01 · What it is
What is shingle granule loss?
Granule loss is the gradual shedding of mineral granules from the surface of asphalt shingles. The granules protect the asphalt mat from UV degradation. As they shed, the asphalt is exposed and shingle life shortens dramatically.
02 · Why it matters
Why inspectors flag this
Moderate-to-heavy granule loss indicates the shingle is approaching or past its end of service life. It is one of the strongest visual cues that a roof replacement is approaching. Inspectors quantify it (light/moderate/heavy) and correlate it to age, slope orientation, and gutter deposits.
03 · Example report wording
How professional inspectors report it
Liability-safe sample comment
Moderate granule loss observed on the south-facing slope of the roof, consistent with end-of-life shingle wear. Granules are visibly accumulated in gutters and downspout splash zones. Functional at the time of inspection but nearing the end of typical service life. Recommend evaluation by a licensed roofing contractor for replacement budget planning.
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About the Author
Lisa Meine, Certified Master Inspector
12+ years of home inspection experience. Co-founded InspectorData to give working inspectors a modern reporting system that respects their existing templates and workflows. InterNACHI member.