Do you have black streaks on your roof? If so, you might know it is not only unsightly and make your home a major eyesore; it can also destroy your roof. Those black streaks are actually Gloeocapsa Magma, which is a species of blue-green Algae. Big Moose Pressure Cleaning will share more about Gloeocapsa Magma and how it can damage roofs and what you can do to prevent this algae from spreading and damaging your home’s roof.
Back Algae Streaks on Roof
When your roof develops black streaks on the roof, know that black stain is Gloeocapsa Magma which is a durable species of blue-green algae that spreads quickly. Gloeocapsa Magma mostly develops on asphalt shingle roofs. Shingles consist of fiberglass sheets, petroleum adhesive, and stone or ceramic aggregate which is designed to help protect the shingles from weathering and sun damage. Modern shingles are made with less asphalt and made with more limestone. However, the limestones grainy surface on the shingles holds onto moisture longer which then provides the perfect condition for Gloeocapsa Magma to develop. Gloeocapsa Magma feeds on limestone which leads to the roof’s destruction.
Signs of Gloeocapsa Magma
It is important to detect early stages of Gloeocapsa Magma. As the Gloeocapsa Magma gets more advanced, it will turn black where shingle damage has already begun to occur. Advanced stages of Gloeocapsa Magma can also be difficult to treat and remove. When Gloeocapsa Magma begins to develop your roof will look damp and begin to become slightly discolored. When early signs of algae occur, make sure you get your roof cleaned. Gloeocapsa Magma doesn’t just feed on the asphalt shingles and damages them; they also cause the attic and the inside of a home to heat up which can reflect on the electrical bill. Gloeocapsa Magma is a common problem and can affect roof tops throughout America.
Preventing Algae on Roofs
Preventing algae from developing on shingle roofs often means keeping the roof clean. It is recommended that a shingle roof gets cleaned every 3 to 5 years. In so doing, you will help prevent algae or Gloeocapsa Magma from developing and destroying the roof and heating up the home. However, you never want to use a high pressure wash to clean asphalt roofs. As it will remove the algae, it can damage the granules that protect the shingles. Often a soft chemical cleaning is all that is needed to clean Gloeocapsa Magma off of roofs. By having your roof cleaned regularly it can increase curbside appeal, extend the life of the roof, and improve your energy’s efficiency.
Soft Wash Roof Cleaning & More in McDonough, Barnesville, Fayetteville, Covington, Locust Grove, Griffin, Stockbridge, Social Circle & Jackson, Georgia
When your home develops black streaks or Gloeocapsa Magma, it is time for a professional soft wash roof cleaning. Big Moose Pressure Cleaning can help clean your home’s roof and treat the roof for algae including Gloeocapsa Magma. For professional pressure cleaning services, contact and schedule services from Big Moose Pressure Cleaning today.
