Have you ever looked at your roof and noticed black streaks? The black streaks can be quite an eye sore. Regardless of how beautiful your yard and the rest of your home is, you just can’t seem to get past those black streaks glaring at you. Big Moose Pressure Cleaning wants to go over the causes for the black streaks that seem to appear over time on your roof, and how soft wash roof cleaning can help remove those nasty black streaks.

Gloeocapsa Magma Algae Stains on Roof

So let’s start with the first question: “What cause those black streaks on my roof, anyway?” To answer that question, we’ll tell you that it’s an algae called Gloeocapsa magma. Unfortunately you cannot prevent these algae from happening. In the end your best solution is to have your roof cleaned or replaced.

Algae, Fungi & Lichen Roof Stains Due to Climate & Limestone in Shingles

But why do some homes seem to have this problem and not others? Well black streaks became a problem about 20 years ago, mostly affecting the Southeast areas of America where there are warm humid climates. You may notice the black streaks or algae is more prominent on the northern side where the roof is darker and wetter. This is ideal for the growth of algae. However climate is not the only thing to blame. About 20 years ago, manufacturers began to use limestone in roof tile. Limestone is a paradise for algae growth. Manufacturers did notice the problem and began to add zinc and copper to inhibit algae growth. However these affects do wear down over time. As the algae begins to grow, it will start off as a blue-green color. The organisms from on the outer coating make this change to protect themselves from the sun rays. Even though the black streaks pose an unsightly problem, they also cause damage to the roof. As the algae grows, it will lock in more moisture in the roof’s tiles. As the algae and fungi grow together, they form lichen.

How Do You Remove Algae, Fungus & Lichen from a Roof?

The lichen roots seep deep into the tile and feed on the minerals inside the tile dissolving it over time. Cleaning lichen can be very difficult once the algae and fungus reaches this point. Some may try to scrub it off or dry the lichen out. This is a temporary fix however, as with the first sign of rain, the algae will spark and start back to life. Your next option is to have your roof cleaned. In fact, at the first hint that algae is starting to develop, you’ll want to have your roof cleaned. This is something you don’t want to hesitate on as postponing lichen removal can lead to premature roof replacement. Keeping the algae in check will help you avoid the expensive cost of having your roof replaced.

Soft Wash Roof Cleaning & More in McDonough, Barnesville, Fayetteville, Covington, Locust Grove & Griffin Georgia

Big Moose Pressure Cleaning has been providing roof cleaning services for quite some time. We know those who keep their roof clean will improve the beauty of their home and extend the life of their roof. Contact us today!