What’s growing on your roof?

We have all seen beautiful homes with awful looking roofs that are stained with black streaks.  Have you ever wondered what it is?

The most common culprit causing the black streaks on roofs is a black algae called Gloeocapsa magma. That's right! You have organic matter growing and feeding on your roof!  Over the past 30 years this algae has become more aggressive and has migrated via spores released into the atmosphere to cooler less humid environments. It has has become a fairly common sight on asphalt shingle roofs across most of the Country.

 This ugly growth usually occurs on the north or west side of the house as well as the tree shaded areas of the roof.  As the algae grows and spreads, it holds moisture, which accelerates its growth.
 

Is this Gloeocapsa magma algae dangerous to my roof?

Yes, algae growth on your roof causes several problems over time. First of all the algae is usually black in color so it absorbs the suns rays, heats the roof surface quicker and leads to higher cooling costs.  As if that were not enough reason to have it removed, the algae on your roof is actually eating your shingles!  This strain of algae feeds on the limestone used in the manufacturing of todays roof shingles.

Over time the granules protecting the surface of the shingle begin to loosen and wash off as the limestone is diminished.  Algae present on roof shingles promotes other damaging biological growth such as lichens and roof moss which are even more harmful if left to grow and spread. Roof moss and lichens anchor into the shingles and spread even more quickly then algae.  Moss and lichens grow up into and under the shingles and along edges causing them to lift and make the roof more prone to wind damage and leaks.  This destructive growth acts like a sponge that keeps the roof damp causing even more and faster growth.

Premature roof replacement could cost you many thousands of dollars. Removing the stains and growth early is your best option. Don't wait until the entire north side of your roof is black, it may be too late and some damage to your shingles may have already been done.

How do I get rid of this destructive algae, moss and lichen?

Professional cleaning with environmentally safe solutions and very low pressure are the best answer. H2O uses a safe, non pressure system for cleaning roofs.  The chemicals do all the work.  We systematically apply the cleaner and then wash away the algae to a clean, new looking roof.  A thorough roof cleaning adds life to your shingles, and value to your home.

Will my roof look clean when H2O is finished?

Your roof will look almost brand new when H2O finishes the roof cleaning job. The unsightly black streaks will all be gone from your shingles when we are finished. Any spots of heavy lichen will die and change colors but could remain visible for a week or two. Lichen's roots take a very strong grip on your shingle granules and need some extra time before it will release from the granules.