The black or brown streaks you’re seeing on your roof do not suggest that there is a development of mold, mildew or moss. They likewise do not imply that the asphalt shingles are weakening and need replacement. These dark discolorations are really protective UV coating produced by the small bacteria, Gloeocpsa lava, or “blue-green algae.”
Blue-Green Algaez
Blue-green algae spreads via the wind, which means if nearby homes have it, then there is a high likelyhood your house will also have it. Algae prefer damp and moist environments and harbor nutrients from dust. These microorganisms generally settle on the north side of the roof where there is less sun direct exposure and more moisture.
Roof Algae and Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt roofing have limestone that makes them heavy and resilient. Blue-green algae gradually take in the limestone in time. The more dark spots these algae produce, the more your roof loses its reflective capability. The roof will soak up more heat from the sun which will radiate to the house, causing greater cooling expenses. It is simply the first line of organisms that can infest your roof. Blue-green algae can interact with a fungus to create lichen. Your roof will soon have moss forming a thin layer of soil that can collect seeds dropped by birds. Eventually, spots of grass will begin growing on your roof and this will require you to have new shingles installed.
Treatment and Prevention
If you have blue-green algae on your shingles, you don’t have to worry due to the fact that there are different ways you can rid your home of these organisms. There are cleaning solutions including 50/50 chlorine bleach and water that you can use to get rid of stains and stop algae growth. When using these types of solution on your roof, ensure you’re using the proper safety gear such as rubber gloves and eye protection. If you are doing this work yourself, be really cautious as the solution may make the roof slippery.
Roof upkeep can prevent the growth of blue-green algae. You may likewise utilize copper and zinc strips and install them at the roof ridge where rainwater will carry algae-preventing ions all over the roof.
What Are Algae Resistant Shingles?
Today, the most common approach of preventing algae growth on shingle roofing systems is by making the shingles with a percentage of copper granules in them. A common portion of copper granules is roughly 10%. Algae resistant shingles are specifically made shingles that prevent algae growth. They seem like typical shingles to the naked eye. They seem to be the same but they are made a little differently than regular roof shingles.
The most efficient shingles now have copper granules imbedded in the asphalt shingle along with the regular granules. These copper granules are strategically imbedded within each shingle itself to make sure that the whole shingle roof is safeguarded therefore that the roof keeps its uniform color and appearance.
Consult with a professional roofing contractor to learn more about protecting your roof from algae growth.
