Is fiberglass showing on roof shingles an indicator of immediate repair needed?

Question

We have a storm coming in today so I spent the day yesterday cleaning my gutters which were chocked full of debris. They also a significant amount of roof material in my gutters (my understanding is I have asphalt shingles). I have not cleaned my gutters since owning the house (2 years) and my understanding is that the previous owner had not cleaned it in years either.

It is clear to me my roof is worn, but to what extent is it worn? Is this an indicator of immediate repair necessary?

Thanks!

Fiberglass edges

Aggregate material in gutters

Answer 1

That's mostly cosmetic, especially since it's almost entirely on the top layer of a two-layer laminated shingle. It is unlikely to result in leaks. That said, they're probably going to continue to deteriorate at a higher rate in the coming years. You're seeing degradation of the asphalt, so the protective granules are being released. Once you get more significant cracking they'll fail. I'd plan for replacement in the next 2-3 years.

Protip: The cheap plastic mesh gutter guards that slide under your shingles are fantastic if you don't have coniferous trees (pine needles). I have mature oaks overarching my home, and they keep the gutters clean. I do have to clear them on the surface with a leaf blower after flowering season and after leaf fall if it's wet, but they keep the gutters themselves from getting clogged. Skip the expensive options and slip them on.