How to Handle Algae Stains on Your Roof
NOBODY LIKES ALGAE STAINS
If you’ve noticed discolored patches or ugly black streaks on your roof, chances are you have algae stains. Algae patches on your roof can be signs of a serious problem. They don’t just damage your house’s curb appeal, they can also cause damage to your roof if left untreated.
Fortunately, avoiding algae is not that difficult. Read on to learn how CertainTeed algae-resistant shingles can save you a lot of worry.
WHAT CAUSES ALGAE STAINS ON YOUR ROOF?
The most common type of roof algae is a blue-green algae called Gloeocapsa magma. Algae growth on your roof starts slowly. By the time you notice the spots and streaks, the algae has already spread. Algae thrives in warm humid climates, so it can be a real problem on Long Island roofs.
Wind or animals can carry algae spores to your roof. We often find algae issues on poorly installed roofs with ventilation or drainage problems. Overhanging trees or shady exposures can also create an environment that encourages algae growth.
How to Handle Algae Stains on Your Roof
Algae stains on roofs typically appear as dark streaks or spots, usually in a blue-green or black color. They may also appear as small patches or spots. These black stains are most commonly found on the north-facing side of the roof. Northern exposures receive less sunlight and stay damp longer, creating the perfect environment for algae growth.
THE POTENTIAL DAMAGE OF ALGAE STAINS ON YOUR ROOF
While algae stains may seem like a purely cosmetic issue, they can actually cause damage to your roof if left untreated.
In New York summer heat, blue-green roof algae becomes black. This protects the algae from UV light. But black algae absorbs heat, which increases the roof temperature. This can lead to higher cooling bills and to increased shingle degradation.
Algae stains can also point to other problems. Shingle damage can lead to damp patches on the roof where algae thrives. A badly installed roof with inadequate ventilation or poor drainage can become an algae magnet. If you are regularly hiring roof cleaners to clear away algae, you may want to consider a roof inspection.
A quick Google search will bring up lots of DIY roof washing suggestions. You’ll find advice on techniques like pressure washing or scrubbing with chlorine bleach and water.
But these methods can damage your roof and leave toxic chemicals pouring down into your yard and garden. They may also void any roof warranties you may have.
The safest, most effective way to remove algae stains from your roof is to hire a professional roof cleaning service. Professional roof cleaners know how to remove dirt, debris, and algae stains from your roof without damaging it.
County Roofing’s team of roof cleaners has extensive residential, commercial, and multi-family experience. We work with the latest techniques and equipment to make sure that your roof is free from algae and moss. We will also examine your roof to see if there are any underlying conditions behind your roof’s algae issues.
CertainTeed Luxury Shingles Protect Your Home
DIY METHODS AND PROFESSIONAL ROOF CLEANING
A quick Google search will bring up lots of DIY roof washing suggestions. You’ll find advice on techniques like pressure washing or scrubbing with chlorine bleach and water. But these methods can damage your roof and leave toxic chemicals pouring down into your yard and garden. They may also void any roof warranties you may have.
The safest, most effective way to remove algae stains from your roof is to hire a professional roof cleaning service. Professional roof cleaners know how to remove dirt, debris, and algae stains from your roof without damaging it.
County Roofing’s team of roof cleaners has extensive residential, commercial, and multi-family experience. We work with the latest techniques and equipment to make sure that your roof is free from algae and moss. We will also examine your roof to see if there are any underlying conditions behind your roof’s algae issues.
Preventing Algae Stains On Your Roof
Algae stains are an inevitable part of life in a coastal area like LI/NYC. But there are steps that you can take to minimize the growth and keep your roof looking fresher and more attractive.
KEEP YOUR ROOF CLEAN
Regularly cleaning your roof can help prevent algae stains from taking hold. Remove leaves, branches and other debris from your roof. Trim overhanging trees so that your roof receives more sunlight.
CONSIDER ALGAE RESISTANT SHINGLES
If you’re in the market for a new roof, consider investing in algae-resistant roof shingles. While they may be more expensive upfront, they can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent roof cleanings.
We can also install copper or zinc strips under the row of shingles closest to your roof’s peak. When hit with water, these strips release herbicidal copper or zinc sulfate. This slows down algae growth on your roof and is especially
CertainTeed’s AR shingle options use copper granules to provide StreakFighter protection against algae on your roof. You can order any CertainTeed shingle with an AR upgrade for a nominal fee. Many building suppliers claim their shingles are “algae-resistant.” But CertainTeed stands behind its StreakFighter technology with a 15-year warranty against algae issues.
NOT ALL ROOFERS ARE EQUAL.
PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT!
Ignoring algae streaks can be a costly mistake
Algae streaks can be signs of drainage or ventilation issues. We don’t just clean your roof, we check for structural issues and hidden damage too! If we find an underlying problem, we give you a clear and honest appraisal as well as a detailed estimate. We’ll also help you with any necessary permits and paperwork.
