North Carolina Home Inspector Practice Exam

What does a sand-like substance found in the gutter most likely indicate?

1. Debris buildup from nearby trees

2. Granules from roofing material

3. Pine needles decomposing

4. Dust accumulation from weather

The correct answer is: Granules from roofing material

A sand-like substance found in the gutter most likely indicates granules from roofing material. This phenomenon commonly occurs when the protective granules on asphalt shingles wear off over time due to exposure to the elements, such as UV light and storms. These granules serve to protect the roofing material from the sun’s harmful rays, and when they start to disintegrate, they can wash off into the gutters during rain. Understanding this is vital for home inspectors, as the presence of these granules could signal the need for roof repair or replacement, allowing for timely intervention and preventing further damage to the home. The other options, although they may appear plausible, usually do not resemble the distinctive texture or appearance of asphalt shingle granules. For example, debris from trees would more likely consist of leaves or twigs, while decomposing pine needles would have a different consistency and color. Dust accumulation reflects a buildup of finer particles that would not typically show as a granule-like substance in the gutters.