Asphalt shingle roofs are designed to last for decades, but in Hawai‘i’s humid, tropical climate, they face unique challenges. Organic growth—such as algae, mold, and mildew—can accelerate wear if not addressed.
To help property owners and managers make informed decisions, here’s a look at the five stages of roof organic growth, along with two possible outcomes:
- If you do nothing: The roofing system prematurely goes through the degradation process, moving faster from Stage 1 to Stage 5.
- If you maintain it: Regular inspections and preventative cleaning help preserve performance, appearance, and lifespan—often allowing the roof to meet or even exceed its manufacturer’s expected service life.
Stage 1: New & Well-Maintained
Physical condition: Shingles are flexible, fully sealed, and free of organic growth.
- If you do nothing: Even a “new” roof begins the natural degradation process as spores settle. Without early care, this process accelerates.
- With maintenance: Routine inspections and preventative cleaning help ensure the roof reaches the manufacturer’s communicated lifespan (15, 20, or 30 years) and may even extend beyond it.
Stage 2: Early Signs of Organic Presence
Physical condition: Light streaks appear, granules collect in gutters.
- If you do nothing: Algae spreads, moisture builds, and the roof enters degradation faster than expected.
- With maintenance: A professional soft wash removes early growth, protecting the roof so it stays on track to achieve or exceed its design life.
Stage 3: Visible Growth & Surface Wear
Physical condition: Moss patches and lichen are visible; shingles begin curling and losing granules.
- If you do nothing: The roof’s degradation process speeds up—growth roots into shingles, asphalt is exposed, and efficiency declines.
- With maintenance: Cleaning and treatment slow further wear, supporting the manufacturer’s intended performance standards and keeping replacement timelines predictable.
Stage 4: Widespread Coverage & Material Stress
Physical condition: Large sections are covered with algae streaks; shingles crack, lift, or break.
- If you do nothing: The roof rapidly declines, entering premature failure as leaks and repairs pile up.
- With maintenance: Even at this stage, targeted care and inspections can help maximize remaining life, ensuring the system delivers as much of its original lifespan as possible.
Stage 5: End of Service Life
Physical condition: Shingles no longer provide protection; structural integrity is compromised.
- If you do nothing: The roof reaches the end of its service life years sooner than designed, often requiring costly replacement.
- With maintenance: Proactive care helps most roofs avoid reaching this stage prematurely, achieving or surpassing the lifespan promised by the manufacturer.
The Takeaway
Without inspections or preventative maintenance, an asphalt shingle roof will degrade faster than designed, often failing years ahead of schedule. With a proper maintenance plan, property owners can not only achieve but often exceed the shingle manufacturer’s lifespan, maximizing value and avoiding unnecessary replacement costs.
👉 Next Step: Whether the roof is in Stage 1 or further along, Softwash Hawaii can help assess its condition and create a plan to protect it for the long run.
Contact Softwash Hawaii and schedule your free estimate by by going to our CONTACT Page or calling 808-352-8885.
