Archives for May 2020

Latest Roofing Trends

May 28, 2020 by Infinite Roofing Leave a Comment

As we all know, the top roofing trends can change from year to year. This means that some homeowners would love to get ahead of the game. Therefore, let’s take a look at some of the most popular trends from 2019 that we will be seeing more of in 2020 and into 2021. Knowing a few roofing trends might help you find some inspiration when you decide to get a full roof replacement.

A consultation with your local roofing company will help you find a solution that adds value to your property and also complement your home’s decor with your desired style and appearance. Thanks to the latest technology and new roofing innovations, these 2019 roofing trends are only growing in popularity.

What are the best roofing systems? How are they trending?

Mixed Material Roofing

There are a lot of popular and latest roofing trends. One of them being mixed material roofing- combining metal and shingle roofs is one of the latest architectural trends. Some homeowners may realize that standing seam metal roofs and flat seam metal roofs are consistently one of the popular choices for reroofing and new roofs. The newest metal roofing trendsetter is a Hybrid Metal and Shingle Roofing System. The combination of metal roof panels and laminated shingles on separate pitched roof sections delivers the visual bang of a metal roof at a much lower cost.

Solar Panels and Solar Shingles

The rise in the popularity of solar power has people continuously expressed a desire to have more options in terms of solar products. The average homeowner is starting to wonder how much solar could save and how simple making the switch could really be. Increasing your home’s energy efficiency, minimizing your carbon footprint and saving on your energy bills makes going solar very appealing to many people.

When solar panels first became available, they had a very clumsy appearance, lack of energy efficiency and were extremely expensive. Making the switch back then just did not seem worth it. Eventually, technology development has allowed solar roofing to become a much more legitimate option for residential homes. Modern solar panels look very stylish and striking, are very energy efficient and are now much more affordable.

The cost of these materials has fallen dramatically in recent years, although it is still by no means a cheap solution. However, as the technology continues to improve, you can expect the benefits to increase and the costs to go down even more. New York is also one of the top states in the country for offering considerable state and federal solar incentives.

Cool Roofing

One of the latest trends local roofing companies get asked about is cool roofing. It is a relatively new technique. Cool roofs have the ability to reflect the visible, infrared and ultraviolet wavelengths of the sun, therefore reducing the heat transfer to the building. It also has the ability to radiate absorbed, or non-reflected solar energy. The best thing about this technique is that it can be applied to a variety of roofing materials, colors, and designs to not only enhance curb appeal but also fit your unique style. A cool roof can significantly improve your energy efficiency, reduce your power bills and reduce wear and tear on your HVAC system. It can also make being inside a lot more comfortable.

Metal Roofs

As a top local roofing contractor, each year we’ve seen a steep rise in the popularity of metal roofing materials. This is definitely a trend we’ll be seeing more of in 2020 and beyond. Due to its aesthetic appeal and functionally, various homeowners with different home types request for metal roofs.

Metal roofs give homeowners a chance to achieve the exact look that they want for their homes since there are a lot of styles, types, and colors to choose from. Metal roofing is stylish and able to mimic other expensive materials through metal shaping and finishing. Also, the metal roof still has a long lifespan without needing any regular maintenance. While the initial expenses for its installation can cost two to three times more than asphalt, homeowners can save money long-term as the highly reflective and insulative aspect of metal roofing reduces heating and cooling costs.

As many people are highly concerned with the environment, metal roofing materials such as aluminum and steel hold much appeal as it contains high percentages of recycled content. Aluminum roofs are also 100 percent recyclable, so there’s no need to worry about roofing materials being dumped in landfills. Thanks to its incredible durability, a metal roof is also a great choice for homeowners concerned with storm damage and costly roofing storm repairs.

Designer Options

This is a varied approach that’s not limited to a single style, material, or design. Instead, a designer roof is one that is built with specific qualities. Live in a storm heavy environment? A designer roof can be installed with storm protection in mind. Live in wildfire heavy areas? Roofs that are fire resistant are available to meet your needs. This is one trend that won’t go away thanks to its high level of customization and sustainability.

Concrete

Today, homeowners want style, texture, and above all durability so they don’t have to worry about costly roofing repairs. With concrete tiles, those desires are easily satisfied. Although extremely heavy, the tiles are incredibly durable and versatile.

Green Roof (or Living Roof)

A more uncommon option right now, but one that is continually growing in popularity, is the living roof. We all know that moss, fungi, and other plant life are hazardous to the roof’s health. However, with professional installation, you can actually have plant life as your roof’s visible exterior, thanks to the protective materials underneath. Homeowners are finding this option saves them money on their energy bill thanks to the extra insulation provided with this roofing choice.

These green roofing systems are easy to distinguish with their multiple layers of engineered soil, protective fabric, a waterproof membrane, and a layer of vegetation to top it all off. The plant life doesn’t just add to the overall aesthetic of your property, it also comes with a multitude of benefits for your home and environment.

Green roofs can be more expensive to install, but they can save you money in the long run. Their insulating properties lowers your home’s electricity bill, and they require very low maintenance. Green roofs work best on a sloped roof where if it storms, plants can absorb some water and drain the excess.

Synthetic Materials

The traditional asphalt shingles are desirable because they’re cheap. Slate, shake, metal, and other sturdier materials are much more expensive. Synthetic shingles made out of recyclable materials such as plastic and rubber are today’s best choices for more sustainable roofing that’s eco friendly. The material can be shaped and designed to look like the more expensive options, but at a fraction of the cost. In addition, the energy efficiency and overall of the product is nothing to scoff at.

With the roof playing such an essential part of the home, it’s no wonder that people are always looking for ways to help it stand out. After all, just because a roof is meant to protect your home, doesn’t mean it can’t look good too. This idea has led to some new and innovative roofing possibilities. You may notice that some of these trends that will be listed were popular in the year 2019.

Asphalt Shingles

For decades, asphalt shingles have been the roofing material of choice for many homeowners, and it’s still going to stay by 2020. Asphalt is a sturdy material with a long lifespan and withstands even the most severe shifts in weather. But besides its excellent performance, these shingles have always been popular because of its affordability.

While they don’t last as long as metal roofing, a good asphalt roof can still last for a long time. Just perform regular maintenance to increase its lifespan for even longer.

Lighter Colors

Gone are the days when people should favor a dark colored roof over a light roof. Some people may be tired of having to look at dark, drab roofs all the time. Also, recently roofing manufacturers have become increasingly aware how much dark colors absorb rather than reflect the sun’s rays. Lighter colors are much better for your building’s energy efficiency. Lighter roofs cost less to cool and you have more control over the heating process. The longevity of the roofing materials can also be increased, since the sun’s UV rays can be destructive over time.

This means such roofs are emerging as a very popular style choice as well as an economical one. Many roof shingles are being produced in shades of soft greens, warm blues, and even neutral colors like taupe, beige and off white. While dark neutral or brown tones will never go out of style, light colors have been gaining popularity every year and are expected to gain more traction for the years to come. However, if you still prefer a dark-colored roof, you can still just add a hint of color to your roof without turning it into a terrible eyesore.

Residential Flat Roofing

As modern styles become more and more popular, local roofing contractors are now seeing flat roofs have also entered the trends for residential homes. Their style perfectly fits into the minimalistic approach many people are favoring these days.

Flat roofs are generally less expensive compared to other roof types and offer more design choices. You can also add solar panels and turn it into a green roof without too many additional expenses. Additionally, they’re easier to install, safer, and more accessible than any other roof type. It’s also possible to utilize a flat roof as an additional living and recreational area for you and your family.

The future of the roofing industry is looking bright, with new innovations and technologies becoming available all the time. The best local roofing companies will keep up with these new trends and keep you informed of the best roofing solutions available for your requirements. Call us today to discuss your options, 518-444-ROOF.

Top 25 Roofing Mistakes

May 15, 2020 by Infinite Roofing Leave a Comment

There are many common mistakes we have seen over the years as top rated local roofing contractors. There is a huge difference between an experienced local roofing contractor and some cowboy or someone just starting out in the roofing industry. This difference is never more evident than in the work that is produced and the problems that can arise if someone doesn’t quite know what they are doing or if they are trying to cut corners. A little knowledge can be a dangerous thing!

Here are the top 25 roofing mistakes from our roofing industry experience:

Shingle alignment – Shingles are meant to be installed in straight lines and a uniform manner. This is second nature for an experienced roofing company, but you would be surprised how hard it is for an inexperienced contractor that’s just starting out. Roofs installed this way will look odd and it will ruin your curb appeal, but that’s not all! If your roof was improperly installed, the roof’s lifespan could be reduced. Plus, if they couldn’t get that right, who knows what else they messed up!
Counter flashing – Most people just install it upside-down because it’s easier. Then they just fill the top end with caulk, which is bad because the caulk won’t last long. Then in 5-10 years when the caulk wears out, the chimney leaks. The right way to install it is to cut in a reglet line with a grinder and a masonry wheel, then to bend the metal at a 90-degree angle and insert it into the reglet. This will cause water to actually use the flashing, counting on the metal instead of a line of caulking.
Reusing old flashing – The main purpose of flashing is to prevent any moisture from getting into your home. When getting a roof replacement, cutting corners by using old flashing is a big no! Some roofers would do this in order to cut costs, however, it would only be costly in the long run and not prevent moisture penetration. This will only lead you to call out the contractor again because your roof is leaking.
No ice & water in the valleys – Some people will cheap out and not apply ice and water to the roof valleys. Roof valleys experience the most water flow on the whole roof, so without ice and water, the roof will eventually leak. Don’t pay out all that money but not get a complete job done! Fixing these issues will only cost you later.
Pipe collars often leak because there’s no ice and water – You’re supposed to put a 3×3 square of ice and water around the pipe, straight to the decking. After that is applied, you put flashing over the ice and water. Then you put the second piece of ice and water barrier over the top and sides of the pipe flashing. Shingle then goes over the top. This is how to correctly seal pipe collars. Most roofers leave out the second ice and water and some don’t even do any!
Ridge vents not being hand-nailed which allows for them to blow off – Ridge vents are about an inch thick, shingles are about an eighth of an inch thick. Standard roofing coil nails are only an inch and a quarter long and barely penetrate the decking if used on Ridge vent. The correct way is to do a 2 and a half inch hand nail, which ensures fastening fully through 3/4 inch plywood.
Not cutting the ridge vent in for proper ventilation – Many times when removing outdated box vents and installing Ridge vents instead, when installing a ridge vent for the first time you need to cut the plywood back away from the ridge beam. It needs at least an inch and a half opening for proper ventilation. This ventilation system only works in conjunction with vented soffits.
Not nailing down seams on plywood – Once the shingles are removed, you can accidentally pull out the nails that were holding down the plywood. This can cause a seam to become loose and pop up. Which you will be able to see as a bump when the roof is finished. If you have lines that are protruding out of the shingles it means that somebody did not nail down the plywood properly.
Not replacing plywood that is old or rotted – Plywood that is halfway rotted may look fine when a new roof is installed over it, but 5-10 years later it can start sagging in between the rafters. The roof can then look wavy on the bottoms of eaves that should have been replaced.
Not installing ice and water under step flashing – In the winter when ice dams occur, water will back up under step flashing and leak if not protected by ice and water barrier. The step flashing is located at the wall to roof transitions.
Not removing debris from roof before underlayment and shingles are applied – Sometimes leftover nails can be left on the deck creating a bump if the roof is installed over this. Later this can tear through the roof. We use a leaf blower to ensure that all debris is swept clear.
Not protecting landscaping and yard furniture – Grills and umbrellas, patio furniture and landscaping need to be pulled away from the roof house. Tarps need to be pulled taut from the eave of the roof past landscaping so shingles can slide over without causing any damage.
Nail pattern on shingles – When shingling you want to have an 8 to 10 inch space between the first and second nail, which allows the seam on the course above that shingle to not have a nail under the seam which would allow water to get in and rust out that nail.
Scrimping on nails – Using too few nails or not nailing shingles in correctly can allow the shingles to slip down or blow away, leaving your roof exposed.
Nail placement – Nails are supposed to be placed low on the shingle line, directly above the gussets. When the nails are placed low, they go through the course below them too. When the nails are too high, it misses the second course of shingles and allows shingles to be blown up easier. Shingle manufacturer guidelines should always be followed for where the nails need to be placed.
Nailing too close to the valley – Nails are supposed to be a minimum of 8-12 inches from the valley. Some people nail right in the valley which will leak eventually.
Insufficient contractor insurance – If the property was to be damaged during your roofing project or a worker was injured, the homeowner can be left with the bag if the contractor did not carry enough insurance to pay for the damages. A professional and well-respected roofing company will confirm that they are insured for the amount they claim.
Hiring the wrong contractor – A huge mistake that a homeowner could make is hiring a cheap roofing contractor. Building a house comes with a lot of expenses. Therefore hiring the cheapest roofing contractors is a big mistake and can lead to poor quality work. Most of them would lack knowledge and experience in a high-quality roofing installation. Therefore, looking for a contractor with a well-respected reputation, valid license, warranties, insurance, and positive reviews from their past client is essential.
Old Shingles being covered rather than being replaced – This is one of the largest corners that lower quality roofing companies will cut. The proper way to replace a portion or even the whole roof is to remove all of the old shingles and replace them with new ones. Especially when the shingles were completely damaged. When you are putting new shingles on top of old shingles you are only creating places for moisture and dirt to collect. This will lead to deterioration and damage more quickly than if it was done properly. Tearing off the old shingle layers also allows for proper inspection of the roof deck to ensure that there are no issues there that cannot be seen when covered.
Leaving out the starter strip or applying it incorrectly – You would be risking water infiltration at the eaves and shingles from the first row can be blown off. Therefore, if you are missing the starter strip, sliding a new piece under the shingles would be your best bet. The starter strip should be secured with nails and glued with bituminous mastic.
Improper installation of underlayment – This is another very common issue. Roofing underlayment is a layer of water-resistant or waterproof material that is installed directly onto your roof deck. Therefore it is applied under all other roofing materials as an added layer of protection.
Inadequate ventilation – Roofer’s who don’t know what they are doing would usually neglect the attic and not realize that your attic has improper ventilation. When there isn’t proper attic ventilation, moisture can build up over time causing your roofing system to prematurely wear out, therefore, running your insulation, resulting in increased energy bills.
Missing drip edge – Some roofers may not install a drip edge therefore, water drips behind your gutter system. Drip edge is a key component to any roof system. Drip edge is a metal flashing installed under the first row of shingles on a roof slope. Drip edge has a projecting lip which directs the flow of water into the gutter system. A drip edge allows any moisture to trickle down from the roof into the gutter system, so the roof is not soaked from standing water and other problems that can occur, such as rot, mold growth, stains, basement flooding, and foundation issues. Drip edge should be installed on the lower eave of your roofing system underneath the ice and water shield. The drip edge also provides an extra bonding edge for the ice and water membrane to adhere to.
Inappropriate shingle overhang – Too much overhang will lead to the shingles blowing off in high winds; too little overhang and you will leave your roof exposed to water infiltration and leaks.
Using materials inappropriate for the roof’s pitch – Materials that don’t match the slope of your roof leaves your home vulnerable to water infiltration. For example, a minimum slope of four units of rise per twelve units of run is recommended for asphalt, wood, or tile shingles and shakes.

So now you know what issues to look out for when you get a new roof. Always make sure you call in an experienced local roofing contractor for your roofing project. A new roof is not cheap, but trying to save money and cut corners will only cost you more in the long run. You must consider the lifetime cost of the roof and also the headaches caused when something goes wrong. Don’t risk your home on just a small saving now.

If you wish to book a roof consultation with a trusted local roofing contractor, call us today on 518-44-ROOF!

Visit our main website for more information:
https://www.infiniteroofingny.com

Roofing and COVID-19

May 6, 2020 by Infinite Roofing Leave a Comment

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on so many local businesses and the good people of New York State. Roofing and construction are considered essential services to the community, but that does not mean everything is quite business as usual for your local roofing contractors right now. We are still providing a totally free roof estimate to all homeowners, but we have had to adapt and overcome a few challenges to ensure we can continue to provide you with a safe and dry roof over your head through these troubling times. We are however very pleased and proud to still be able to provide you with a first rate roofing service, second to none.

What does COVID-19 mean for local roofing contractors?

As a top local roofing contractor operating in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, our very first priority is the safety of our workers and the safety of all our customers. Everyone has been concerned about containment and preventing the spread of the virus. We wanted to find an option where, with respect to the social distancing guidelines in effect, people could get an accurate free roofing estimate without needing to meet up with an estimator. We have already been using the latest technology and satellite imagery for many years to assist us in generating your estimates. Now more than ever, this technology has really come into play to provide our customers with the most accurate, pinpoint estimates ever. We have got our free roofing estimates down to an artform and it is easier than ever before. Our team is still 100% available to you as needed and we will always do our best to accommodate any special requirements you may have.

Our workforce availability, along with the availability of our other associates, has become much more of a logistical issue than ever before. However, we have enough staff and workers on rotation to keep things working at near full capacity. We have sought financing to avoid any lay-offs. Office staff that are able to work remotely have been allowed to do so, but obviously roofing itself is a very hands-on job. We take every precaution with regards to safety and social distancing from the public whilst always maintaining our usual high standard roofing service.

Our supply chains have been minimally impacted but may be operating with slight delays and disruptions. Supply shortages are also a key concern. If your need is urgent, it is very important that you get in touch and book your free roof estimate with us as soon as possible to avoid any delays. We are still very busy right now, alongside dealing with all these extra concerns. You can rest assured that we will keep you apprised of your expected schedule and we will get out to perform your work as soon as humanly possible.

There may also be some increased operating costs during this period which we will continue to consider ways to offset. However, we will always do our absolute best not to pass these additional expenses on to our clients. As a roofing company that offers free estimates, our prices will always be among the most competitive around!

What are the top 5 priorities for local roofing contractors during the pandemic?

Worker and customer safety – Above all else, this must be our number one priority
Communication – Keeping clients, staff and workers informed immediately of anything that will affect them
Be prepared – We must be ready for any potential issues and changes in the workflow. Expect and plan for the worst, but always hope for the best
Coordination – Keeping everyone on the same page (suppliers, work crews, office staff)
Be proactive – Adapt new policies for best practice, refine your workflow, improve existing systems and do everything you can to make the best of the situation

These are troubled times when many local roofing businesses are struggling to stay afloat, but by following these guidelines and keeping true to our company ideals, we know we can hold strong and pull through without letting a single customer down.

We would like to thank all our valued customers for their patience and understanding in this difficult period. For your free roofing estimate, call us at 518-444-ROOF or email info@infiniteroofingny.com. If you have any other concerns, please do feel free to contact us too.

Is it normal for a new roof to lose granules?

May 4, 2020 by Infinite Roofing Leave a Comment

Whether they are installed on a residential roof or a flat commercial roof, an asphalt shingle is usually composed of three layers: the backing material, asphalt and an outer layer of granules. These granules give asphalt shingles several distinct properties, such as their color and their energy-efficient, reflective properties. Your trusted, local roofing contractor, Infinite Roofing takes a look at this essential roofing component, and whether or not loose granules are something you should be concerned about.

Loose Granules

Shingle roofing granules are usually made from crushed stone and minerals. In today’s world the manufacturing techniques for shingles have been constantly advancing. The granules that are used now allow roofing manufacturers to create asphalt shingles of virtually any color, size and shape. As your roof ages, some of the granules start to come loose from the asphalt layer. In fact, it’s not as uncommon to find some loose granules in your gutter weeks after the roof is installed.

It is important to note that shingle granule loss is a normal part of roofing wear and tear. Your granules stay on your roof for most of your roof’s lifespan. If you do find a few loose granules in the gutter runoff, it’s no reason to panic. In fact, the only time that you should call a local roofing company like Infinite Roofing is when the runoff looks like someone dumped a morning’s worth of coffee grounds into gutters. Then it could really be a sign of premature wear and tear.

Causes of Granule Loss

Wear and tear was mentioned above but there are some other causes for granules to come loose. What you don’t want is to end up with asphalt shingles that expose that asphalt layer, or what is commonly referred to as bald shingles. Your roof can also sustain damage that could be caused by hail or airborne debris. Therefore, that could be the cause if you notice any loose granules on the ground or in the runoff right after a storm. Another cause of loose granules is if someone was walking on the roof. However, there is no need to panic in most of these situations, most roofs are built to endure a lot. However, notifying your local roofing contractor about a high amount of loose granules is important.

What causes shingle granule loss?

Asphalt shingles are well known for their durability, protection and longevity. Asphalt shingle roofs continue to be among the most popular types of roofing system. Asphalt shingles have been perfected over the years because of advancements made in granule technology and improvements in other surface materials. Shingle granules shield the roof from UV rays and increase its fire resistance. If your shingle roof does not have granules, your shingles would be left exposed to sunlight, which would end up causing it to deteriorate much faster.

The age of your roof can cause it to lose granules at an exponential rate. As roofs age, the bond between the granules and the asphalt shingle becomes weaker, allowing the granules to fall off. If your granules are falling off due to roof age, then you should consider replacing your roof. However, if you just purchased a new roof, then you may be experiencing slight granule loss. When the shingles are manufactured the granules are embedded into the asphalt but some excess granules that are not embedded into asphalt may fall off during packaging, shipping or installation or after a rainfall. If there are any granules that are loose on your roof, inspect the shingles to ensure that the embedded granules are still intact. If any of your shingles seem to be losing the granules prematurely, contacting your nearest roofing company would be a good idea because the product might be defective.

Your shingles are blistering

Blistering shingles can also be a cause of loss of granules. Aging, wear and tear, or storm events can cause moisture to get stuck inside the shingles which can cause them to blister. If your shingles are blistering and losing their shingles, your roof is in definite need of repair.

Additional Causes

With older roofs, foot traffic can be a cause of shingle wear and granule loss.
Continuous weathering can, over time, cause your granules to become loose and eventually fall off.
Major storm events, such as hail storms, can loosen and/or displace the granules.

Shingles granule loss does not always mean you need a full roof replacement, contact an experienced and certified roofing technician to inspect your roof and perform the appropriate repairs.

Uniform Granule Loss

Long-term, uniform granule loss is not considered functional damage by insurance companies. It’s generally considered part of the natural aging process, unless your shingles are failing prematurely. The rate at which shingles lose granules depends on the quality of the shingles and the weather/climate zone of the home on which they are installed. Granule loss which is uniform across the roof is usually a result of normal weathering. Over time, the bond between the granules and asphalt deteriorates, and granules will be loosened and carried away by runoff. Prolonged exposure to hail can also loosen granules. With older roofs, even marble-size hail may loosen granules. If you suspect hail damage it is best to contact your local roofing contractor as they will give you the best advice. You may even be entitled to a new roof, provided by your insurance company. Premature failure of the granular bond to the asphalt surface can also be caused by poor-quality asphalt. It can also be caused by other conditions.

What are roofing granules made of?

Many flat commercial roofs have asphalt shingles that contain roofing granules. These are tiny particles that consist of graded crushed rock, porcelain, slag, slate or tile. Roofing granules are used on flat commercial roofs for several reasons. Here are a few of their benefits, along with some conditions that can affect them. Roofing granules are constructed with a ceramic coating. The granules that are most commonly used consist of ground-up molten rock particles, such as solid volcanic lava, basalt or granite. To obtain the proper granule size these particles are processed and then covered with a silicate mixture. Once this has been done, the next step is adding color to the mixture. After coating the granules, rotary calciners treat the coating so that it turns into a ceramic. This is done to make the shingles more durable and seals in the color. It also gives the final product an additional aesthetic appeal.

Advantages of Roofing Granules on Flat Commercial Roofs

One of the main advantages of roofing granules is that they provide aesthetic beauty. This is the result of colors that have been blended together, giving a roof depth and a rich appearance. Besides cosmetic appeal, roofing granules also serve practical purposes. For instance, they’re designed to protect the asphalt coating of shingles from harsh UV sunlight. Because roofing granules can make a roof cooler, this can mean having lower utility bills for your business. As a result, you’ll have more money for other expenses. What’s more, roofing granules provide fire resistance for shingles.

Essential Characteristics Needed For Stones

The type of natural stones that’s selected in making roofing granules is just as critical as the coloring process and the distribution of the particle size. The main qualities that are required are hardness, opaque and rust-resistant. The stone has to be exceptionally durable and hard. In order to be suitable, the stones must be hard enough so that they can withstand foot traffic from building owners or contractors who have to walk on the roof surface. They must also be opaque enough, so harsh solar rays won’t be able to pass light through the granules. The best stones are darker ones, such as trap rock or gabbro, which is a dark, coarse igneous rock. These are better than quartz or granite stones, which are more likely to allow light to penetrate through them. The degree of iron content in a stone is just as crucial. To be suitable, a stone should have only a small amount of iron in its composition. This is to prevent iron from leaking out from granules, which can lead to rust stains on a roof.

What are the granules on shingles made of?

No doubt you have noticed the rough surface of asphalt shingles, very different from the relatively smooth surface of asphalt roads. There’s a reason for this, during the shingle manufacturing process, before the asphalt has fully set, granules are adhered to the surface of the shingle, giving it this motley, rough appearance.These granules are typically made from minerals or mineral fibers, but some are also made from metals like copper. Traditionally, these granules are applied to shingles to protect the asphalt because prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to damage. Also, the granule layer on the shingles looks much better on a roof than streaks of black asphalt. Metal granules are added to help prevent algae growth.

In summary

While the granules on your shingle roof should be securely adhered to the asphalt layer, a brand new roof may have excess granules from the manufacturing process that will fall off soon after the initial roof installation. This is nothing to worry about. A small number of loose granules here and there are also no great cause for concern. In time however, an older or more weathered roof may start to lose its shingle granules in larger amounts and this is when you know you have a problem. This makes it more difficult for your shingles to protect the underlying roofing materials and prevent sun or water damage. Missing granules are also associated with damaged or broken shingles. If you are losing granules, you will probably know about it when you find loose shingle granules around your house, especially in the gutters or where water runoff from your roof spills to the ground. These piles of granules come from somewhere, and it usually means your shingles are losing them. The second and most critical sign is being able to spot bare shingle spots just by looking at your roof. Your local roofing contractor would tell you that this is a sure sign that granule loss has been going on for some time.

If you are concerned about granule loss on your roof, please reach out to us at Infinite Roofing and we would be happy to advise you and give you a free, no obligation estimate to get your roof back in shape! Call 518-444-ROOF or email us at info@infiniteroofingny.com.