If you’ve ever cleaned out your gutters and noticed small, sand-like granules collecting at the bottom, it’s not just dirt or debris — those are likely roof shingle granules. While it may not seem like a big deal at first, excessive granule loss can be a warning sign that your roof is deteriorating and may need professional attention.
Whether you live in Surrey, White Rock, or anywhere along the BC coast, understanding what roof granules are and why they end up in your gutters can help you make smarter decisions about roof cleaning and maintenance.
What Are Roof Granules?
Roof granules are the small, textured particles you see on asphalt shingles. They serve multiple important purposes:
Protect against UV rays
Improve fire resistance
Add aesthetic color and texture
Enhance durability and weather resistance
These granules are critical to the performance of your roof. When they start to wear off in large amounts, your shingles become more vulnerable to sun damage, leaks, and premature aging.
Why Are Granules Collecting in Your Gutter?
Some granule loss is normal, especially after a new roof installation or following a heavy rainstorm. However, if you’re noticing consistent or large amounts of granules every time you check your gutters, this could indicate:
Aging shingles – Most asphalt roofs begin to lose granules significantly after 10–15 years.
Algae and moss growth – In coastal areas like White Rock, these can break down the shingle surface.
Improper roof cleaning techniques – High-pressure washing or aggressive brushing can dislodge granules.
Extreme weather exposure – UV radiation, heavy rains, and salt in the air can all wear down roofing materials.
What You Should NOT Do
A common mistake homeowners make is attempting DIY pressure washing on the roof. This can cause granule loss to worsen, stripping away the protective layer of your shingles and shortening the roof’s lifespan.
High pressure = high risk when it comes to roofing. That’s why experienced professionals use soft washing — a low-pressure method that gently removes moss, algae, and dirt without harming the shingles.
How Roof Cleaning Can Help Preserve Granules
If moss, algae, or grime is contributing to granule loss, a professional soft wash roof cleaning can help stop the damage in its tracks.
Here’s how the process works:
Inspection – We assess the roof’s age, condition, and granule loss before cleaning.
Eco-Friendly Detergent Application – A gentle formula is applied to break down organic growth.
Low-Pressure Rinse – Using controlled soft washing, we remove all buildup safely.
Post-Cleaning Review – We check for additional problem areas or signs of wear.
This method is ideal for coastal homes, where excess moisture and salt air speed up roof degradation.
What If Granule Loss Is Already Severe?
If you’re seeing bald spots on your shingles or large amounts of granules in every gutter cleaning, it may be time for a roof inspection. While cleaning can slow down further damage, roof replacement might be necessary if the protective layer is too far gone.
Don’t wait until a leak appears — catching issues early can save you thousands in repairs.
Serving Surrey and White Rock – Roof Cleaning Done Right
At Axion Pressure Washing, we specialize in soft washing for roofs, using methods that protect your shingles while restoring your home’s appearance. We understand the specific challenges coastal roofs face — from moss and algae to salt air and UV exposure.
Our services are:
Safe for all roof types
Eco-friendly and non-invasive
Delivered by trained and insured professionals
Tailored for homes in Surrey, White Rock, and surrounding areas
Don’t Let Granule Loss Go Unchecked
If you’ve found roof granules in your gutters, your home may be telling you it’s time for a professional cleaning or inspection.
Contact Axion Pressure Washing today to schedule a roof assessment or soft wash service. Let’s keep your roof strong, clean, and protected — the way it should be.
