Your home's roof is designed to keep you and your family dry and protect you from the elements. However, it isn't designed to last forever. Roofing in Hawaii is particularly vulnerable to the elements, as near-constant exposure to bright sunlight can cause shingles to dry out and become brittle and lose their ability to protect your roof. Eventually, this can lead to widespread water damage and leaks. Learning to spot the signs of water damage and correcting the problem before it gets worse can help preserve your roof and save money. 

The Most Common Signs of Roofing Water Damage 

1. Granules in the Gutters 

Asphalt roofing shingles are covered with granules to help direct water off the roof and into the gutters. When shingles start to dry out, though, these granules can become loose and wash away. When this happens, you'll notice them in the gutters and on the ground around the downspouts. Shingles with missing granules may also have smooth or bald spots. In either case, damaged shingles can cause extensive water damage to the roofing and underlying structure. 

2. Cracked or Blistered Shingles

Exposure to sunlight can damage asphalt roofing shingles from the inside and cause them to crack or blister. This type of damage is clearly visible and is both unsightly and likely to lead to water damage. Water can easily leak under cracked shingles, causing extensive damage to the roof decking underneath. 

3. Visible Water Stains

A leaking roof will eventually cause water stains on the ceiling and walls inside your home. In many cases, stains are a sign of a slow leak, which can be difficult to find since water damage often spreads from the source. Usually the stains are accompanied by water spots on the roof decking, and even standing water in the attic. When this happens, finding the source of the leak and making repairs is the priority, followed by identifying ways to prevent further damage. 

Homeowners throughout Oahu rely on Roof Maxx Hawaii for help protecting their roofing shingles from the effects of Hawaiian sunshine. These experienced professionals use innovative roofing rejuvenation technology to improve the flexibility of asphalt shingles and give them greater protection against deterioration caused by extreme weather. You can also rest assured that their methods are 100% sustainable, as they use a plant-based bio oil to rejuvenate and add life to shingles. Request a free roof inspection by calling (808) 522-7663, and visit them online to learn more about the service.