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What are Common Signs a Shingle Roof Needs Cleaning?

Common signs that a shingle roof needs cleaning include the presence of dark streaks or discoloration, typically caused by algae growth, which can spread and cause damage over time. Additionally, moss and lichen patches indicate that moisture is being trapped on the roof’s surface, potentially leading to shingle deterioration and leaks. Accumulated debris such as leaves, twigs, and dirt can create an ideal environment for these growths and should be cleared promptly. Other indicators include a buildup of granules in gutters, suggesting that the shingles are breaking down and need maintenance. Visible mold or mildew, particularly in shaded or damp areas, also signals that the roof requires cleaning to prevent further structural damage and preserve its appearance. Regular inspection and timely cleaning based on these signs are essential to maintain the roof’s health and functionality.

How Often Should Shingle Roofing Be Cleaned?

Shingle roofing should generally be cleaned every one to two years to maintain its condition and extend its lifespan. However, the exact frequency can depend on several factors, including the local climate, the amount of tree cover around the house, and the prevalence of algae, moss, or lichen growth in the area. In regions with high humidity or significant rainfall, more frequent cleaning might be necessary to prevent moisture-related issues. Homes surrounded by trees may also require more regular cleaning due to falling leaves, branches, and organic debris that can accumulate on the roof. Regular inspections, ideally twice a year, can help determine when cleaning is needed by identifying early signs of dirt buildup, plant growth, or other issues. It can be a good idea to keep track of your cleanings so you know when to begin your search for “roof cleaning near me”. 

Why Should You Hire a Professional for Shingle Roof Cleaning?

Roofing professionals should provide shingle roof cleaning because they possess the expertise, specialized equipment, and safety training necessary to perform the task effectively and safely. Professionals can identify and address underlying issues such as damaged or loose shingles, potential leaks, and structural problems that a homeowner might overlook. They use appropriate cleaning solutions and techniques that avoid damaging the shingles, ensuring that the roof’s warranty remains intact. Additionally, professional roof cleaners are trained to work at heights, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries that can occur when homeowners attempt to clean their roofs themselves. By hiring professionals, homeowners can ensure a thorough, safe, and efficient cleaning process that enhances the roof’s longevity and performance.

What are the Best Tools and Materials for Shingle Roof Cleaning?

The best options for cleaning shingle roofing involve using gentle yet effective methods to protect the shingles while removing dirt, debris, and organic growth. A soft-bristle brush or broom can help clear away loose debris without causing damage. For more thorough cleaning, a mixture of water and a mild detergent or a specialized roof cleaner should be applied with a pump sprayer, targeting areas with moss, algae, or lichen. This solution should be left to sit for a short period to break down the growth, followed by a gentle rinse with a garden hose equipped with a spray nozzle. 

High-pressure washing should be avoided, as it can dislodge shingles and cause leaks. Additionally, using environmentally friendly cleaning solutions can prevent harm to surrounding plants and wildlife. For those uncomfortable with heights or lacking proper safety equipment, hiring professional roof cleaners ensures the job is done safely and effectively, preserving the roof’s integrity and appearance. By simply searching for “roof cleaning near me” you can easily find a professional with the experience to take care of your next roof cleaning project. 

If you’ve found yourself conducting a search for “roof cleaning near me,” consider hiring the team at Cincinnati Gutter & Roof Protection. We provide high-quality roof cleaning in your area and we can be there right away to safely and effectively handle any project. Call today at 513-563-9988 to learn more about how we can help you.

How do you know when you need roof storm damage repairs? 

Storms of all types can damage the outer layer of a roof which allows water to seep in. This can lead to roof leaks and that can lead to mildew, mold, and worse. If roof storm damage repairs aren’t addressed early enough, this can lead to needing a roof replacement, which is much more expensive. 

Not only can roof storm damage repairs be expensive the longer they’re avoided, but the structure of the home becomes compromised. This includes drywall, electrical, and multitudes of other problems, and more.  Some indicators that your home needs roof storm damage repairs include: 

• Broken, cracked, curled, loose, or missing shingles.
• Asphalt shingles lying around on the ground near the foundation.
• Signs of water leaks inside the home such as water stains, buckled or peeling paint, or warped wood.
• Dented or damaged gutters
• Debris and broken tree branches on the roof.
• Exposed nails.
• Damaged, loose, or missing flashings.

What are the dangers of a damaged roof?

Some homeowners will file a roof storm damage repair claim with their insurance company and then take the money and go on vacation or do some other type of ‘frivolous’ spending.  While a vacation from Cincinnati, Ohio to the Bahamas may sound wonderful after a cold winter, it isn’t the best choice.  When you opt to spend that insurance claim money on something other than roof storm damage repairs, you could experience the following: 

• RISKING THE STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY 

The smallest roof leak can become a severe roof leak, leading to weakening roof framing,  wood deterioration, and more, the beginnings of structural damage. The longer the leak is allowed to go unaddressed, the more serious it can become. 

• FIRE HAZARDS

Roof storm damage roof repairs left unaddressed are leaving any electrical wiring in the attic is a threat to the safety of your home and family. You shouldn’t try to do this type of repair yourself, always use the services of a licensed electrician. 

• HEALTH CONCERNS

A big consequence of not having roof storm damage repairs done is the development of mildew and mold growth. Both will keep spreading throughout the entire structure, weakening the roof & walls. Mold will create respiratory issues for members of the household or irritate those who have respiratory problems already. 

How much damage does a roof need to be replaced?

The basic rule of thumb for most insurance companies is when there is a 25% surface area of the roof or larger,  roof storm damage repairs are insufficient and the roof needs to be completely replaced. However, this can change depending on where the roof storm damage is located and how severe the damage is. 

For instance, a tree limb on top of the roof would necessitate a new roof. Or if the damage is a hole in one area of the roof, the insurance adjustor may recommend the entire roof be replaced.  The age of the roof can have a bearing on the decision too. 

Can half of the roof be replaced?

It is physically possible, but not recommended in most cases. When only part of a roof is replaced, it will age differently than the rest of the roof. This isn’t just a matter of aging roofs but the aesthetics too. The newer roof will be a different color than the original roofing. 

Can you repair just parts of the roof?

Again, this is determined by the insurance adjuster and a roofing contractor. In most cases, if the storm roof damage repairs needed is no more than 25% of the roof surface, then yes, partial repairs a enough. As we stated above, the age of the roof, the severity, and the area of the roof damage are factors in the decision. 

In Conclusion

The roof on your home is an important level of protection for your home, the most important investment you have. It is the crown on your castle and protects your belongings. When there are roof storm damage repairs needed, it is important to have them addressed sooner rather than later. After the unusually hot summer that we’ve had in this area, have your roof inspected before the winter weather sits in, and get any roof storm damage roof repairs made soon. 

Going forward, walk around your home looking for possible damage after any significant weather event, at any time of the year. If you have any possible signs of roof storm damage repairs needed, have a professional roof inspection done and then call your insurance company to file a claim.

What is algae, and why don’t we want it on our roofs?

Like plants, algae is a group of primarily aquatic, nucleus-bearing, photosynthetic organisms. However, unlike plants, algae lacks leaves, stems, and roots, the multicellular reproductive structures that other plants have. Therefore, you cannot purchase a flat of algae to plant like Begonias and Coleus. 

Aglae are carried in the air, landing on rooftops, latching onto asphalt shingles, and feeding off the limestone granule top layer. When left to feed, they spread, and over time, as they eat away at the limestone, they slowly weaken the shingles. When combined with fungus, another growth you can’t purchase by the flat produces another growth: lichen. This more advanced life form is more destructive, hardier, and sturdier.  

With this in mind, it is clear why algae-free roofing has become a highly demanded roofing material. So, what makes a roof algae-free? The industry manufactures algae-free roofing with substances like copper and zinc granules that stop algae from growing, providing you with significant savings in the long run.

What is the best algae-free roofing?

One key component of algae-free roofing is the use of copper granules. Copper is a valuable barrier against algae growth because it is inedible. You may notice the common usage of copper in plumbing because of its resistance to issues such as algae and corrosion. Every asphalt shingle manufacturer will have its own version of algae-free roofing, but there are some common factors between them, including: 

• Products that prevent the growth of algae, mildew, and moss. 
• Products that prevent roofs from stains.
• Products manufactured with antimicrobial properties.
• Prevents streaks on the roof.
• Products that increase the curb appeal to houses.  

Is algae-free roofing ugly? 

No, algae-free roofing shingles are available in different styles, allowing homeowners to coordinate or match their home’s architectural style. By choosing an algae-free roofing material, you’ll be giving your home a level of protection with energy efficiency that is still visually pleasing.

What kills algae on shingle roofs?

A build-up of moss on a shingle roof can cause water movement laterally. This results in the roof deck being damaged by moisture, leading to leaks. If you’ve noticed algae building up on your asphalt shingle roof, you can remove it using a mixture of one-half household bleach and one-half water. 

Can you keep algae from growing on a roof?

If you don’t have algae-free roofing now, you can minimize the substance from building up by keeping it clean and clear of debris and dirt. Keeping the gutters clean is also essential for minimizing algae growth. If your roof gets algae, once you have removed it, inserting six-inch-wide strips of copper or zinc under the shingles along the peak of the roof is recommended. 

What is the best color of roofing to hide algae?

Of course, the best thing to do is to have algae-free roofing installed. The next best thing is to remove the algae and then take the steps we recommended above to prevent algae. 

If you’re getting a new roof and the algae-free roofing material is out of budget range, choose dark-colored shingles. These won’t show algae or stains, making your roof unsightly. 

Are algae-free roofing shingles worthwhile?

Algae-free roofing shingles will cost a little more than standard asphalt shingles. Depending on brand and quality level, the approximate cost of algae-free roofing shingles can start around $2.00 per square foot. Some may be under that, and others may be double or more. 

What is the cheapest type of algae-free roofing shingles?

Asphalt shingles will always be the best bet if you’re looking for the cheapest roofing material, even if you’re looking for an algae-free roofing material. There are three types. Basic three-tab shingles are the most affordable and standard, ideal for tight budgets on houses flipped for profit. 

The other two types of asphalt shingles are architectural shingles and luxury shingles. Dimensional shingles are manufactured with a minimum of two fused, resulting in a multi-dimensional appearance. They are made to look like natural slate or wood shake roofing. Luxury asphalt shingles are considered heavy-weight shingles, giving a differentiated appearance that outclasses dimensional shingles. 

Topping It Off

Is the higher cost of algae-free roofing shingles worthwhile? Absolutely. Here in the Cincinnati, Ohio area, where the humidity can attract algae, go with algae-free roofing if possible! It will give your roof a longer lifespan, meaning you won’t need to replace it too soon because of the rot algae can cause. 

Your Roof Protects You. Protect it.

Regular roof inspections are vital for protecting your investment in your home. By detecting damage early, preventing issues from escalating, ensuring safety, maintaining energy efficiency, complying with insurance requirements, preserving property value, and providing peace of mind, roof inspections play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and longevity of your roof and your home. Schedule annual inspections by qualified professionals to ensure that your roof remains in optimal condition. If you need a roofer in Cincinnati, OH, reach out to the experts at Cincinnati Gutter & Roof Protection. No roofing need is too big or small, so connect with us today.

How do UV rays damage roofs? 

For most of us, UV rays are UV rays, but in reality, down to the scientific level, there are 3 different types of UV rays: 

• UVA
• UVB
• UVC

The UV rays that contribute to roof repairs are the UVA and UVB, with the UVB being the most detrimental to rooftops. UV rays cause damage in two different ways. 

• Chemical: The rooftop’s exposure to UV rays breaks the asphalt molecules down, minimizing the protective properties they offer.
• Physical: The UV rays dry the natural essential oils in the shingles out, making them brittle which leads to breaks and cracking. 

This results in overall UV damage that leads to minor and extensive roof repairs, even roof replacement when coupled with other weather elements. The combination of UVA and UVB rays causes the following visible and invisible problems:

1. Color Fading: The color of the asphalt shingles is bleached out by these UV rays, making them unattractive and aged-looking.
2. Deteriorate: UV rays damage the structural integrity of the asphalt, and the breakage and chipping can lead to leaking roof repair or replacement. 
3. Blistered Shingles: UV exposure will cause shingles to blister and when left unaddressed, like replacing the damaged shingles, can lead to a leaking roof.

Over time, these damages can lead to more severe issues such as leaks, mold growth, and structural damage, which will necessitate costly roof repairs or even complete roof replacement.

Can a partial roof repair be done?

Technically, yes, a partial roof repair is possible in some cases, but it isn’t the first recommendation by most roofing contractors or manufacturers of roofing materials. For instance, a single damaged shingle, replacing the damaged shingle is acceptable. Roof repair of a small hole is an acceptable solution, if there isn’t more damage under the roofing material. 

There are three reasons that a generalized roof repair area isn’t acceptable: 

• MATERIAL MATCHING

Even if you have leftover asphalt shingles, a simple roof repair could still show the color difference, especially the older the roof. This holds for other roofing materials too like ceramic or slate tiles, wood shakes, or shingles. Even if finding exact matching shingles or tiles is possible, there will be variations in color because they are from different batches. 

• COST MORE GOING FORWARD

Initially, you’re able to save money with a section roof repair job, but going forward, at some point, a full roof replacement will be needed. That roof repaired section and the rest of the roof will have different levels of aging. Depending on the size of the roof repair, the cost of a full replacement may be a better economical choice. 

• WARRANTY ISSUE

When a new roof is installed, the entire roofing job is under warranty by the roofer and the material manufacturer. However, a sectional roof repair can void the warranty for the entire roof.

How much does a roof repair cost?

This will depend on the type of roofing material, the extent and size of the damage, and the location of the damage.  The roof is a critical component of your home, making sure it is in good condition and roof repairs or replacements are done properly and in a timely fashion is important. 

The longer you delay getting roof repairs done, the more damage happens, and roof replacement may be the only option. Another caveat to consider is if you delay getting roof repairs done, this can put you in jeopardy of your homeowner’s insurance denying any roof claim or even leading to cancellation due to negligence. 

A roof repair can start around $200 and reach up to $10,000, depending on the factors we mentioned. Most typically top out at $2,000, but after that amount, a homeowner should review their homeowner’s insurance policy for the deductible and limits.  If the roof repair is as much or more than the deductible of a roof replacement, the replacement should be considered. 

What are the most common roof repairs?

For asphalt shingled roofs, the most common roof repairs are repairing or replacing broken or damaged shingles, replacing missing shingles, or shingles that have missing asphalt granules.  Loose or missing flashing on the roof is a common roof repair, and often homeowners can do this themselves if they’re comfortable climbing on the roof. 

A ceramic or slate tile roof repair is common for cracks or holes or defective underlayment. Repairs to the chimney and gutters are common as well as the skylights or any roof protrusions like vents. 

Topping It Off – Roof Repairs Aren’t Always An OptionNot every situation of roof damage is suitable for localized roof repair. If the roofing surface has 25% or more damage, or the roof is over eight to 10 years old, a full roof replacement is typically recommended by the roofing contractor and required by the insurance company. And if you find yourself in need of roof repair in Cincinnati, OH, remember that a company like ours is always available to provide you with the services you require. You can give us a call at 513-563-9988 if you’d like any more information regarding the roof repair services you might need.

Why does a roof need to be maintained?

The roof of your home is subjected to various weather conditions, including major storms and the resulting storm damage. If the roof isn’t installed properly or poor quality materials are used, it can begin to leak or even worse. Routine seasonal roof maintenance allows you to identify any issues with the roof that may require minor problems. When you identify these problems early on, you can address them before they become bigger and more expensive problems. 

What kind of seasonal roof maintenance should be done?

You can do seasonal roof maintenance and inspection on your home yourself, or you can hire a professional. How can you protect your roof in the winter? If you choose to do the roof inspection yourself, here are 6 things you need to be sure to do that will protect your roof year-round: 

1. Gutter Cleaning: Depending on the number of trees around your home and neighborhood, you may need to do a gutter cleaning twice a year as a part of your seasonal roof maintenance. The purpose of gutters is to send water away from the foundation of your home. If they are clogged, and you skip a cleaning, that excess water will flow over the gutters, saturate the fascia, and puddle up around the foundation.  

2. Keep Trees Trimmed: While trees around your home can be a beautiful addition to your home. They can also be a threat to the roof with overhanging branches breaking off during a storm or high winds. The falling leaves fill up the gutters (reference the gutter cleaning tip in seasonal roof maintenance) and overflow to the roof, trapping moisture underneath, leading to premature decay. 

3. Clean Debris: Along with keeping leaves and limbs off the roof, keeping that algae growth off will keep wood rot from starting and spreading. You can do this yourself during your seasonal roof maintenance by using a leaf rake or household broom, or have your roof professionally cleaned once a year. You may be wondering, is raking the roof in the winter safe? If you want to clear snow and ice off the roof yourself, start at the gutters, and go upward about four feet. A push broom would be safer, but you can use a rake with extreme caution. The goal is to keep the gutter and eaves clear of any ice dams starting.

4. Watch for Interior Damage: Inspect the attic from time to time for any indication of roof leaks. Things like water stains on the decking, wet insulation, any signs of mildew or mold, sagging beams, or if you can see light coming through the decking, there may be damage you can’t see on the roof. 

5. Keep an Eye Out for Damaged or Missing Shingles: As you walk around the exterior of your home during your seasonal roof maintenance, if you see damaged, loose, or missing shingles, it is time to have your roof professionally inspected. 

6. Watch for Water Damaged Fascia and Soffits: As you clean the gutters, check the fascia and soffit boards for possible damage. If you’ve ignored the gutter cleaning as a part of your seasonal roof maintenance, you probably have damaged or rotted fascia and soffit. 

What time of year is best for roof repairs?

Most roofing contractors prefer to do any roof repairs or installation in the fall. The weather in general is cooler and dry. This helps the shingles to adhere better and helps extend the lifespan of the roofing framework. 

Of course, there is an exception. If you have any emergency like a limb falling on the roof or the wind taking off any shingles, you need a contractor out immediately. Once you have called a contractor and they have provided you with a written estimate, call your insurance company and file a claim. The insurance company will send an adjuster out to inspect the damage along with the entire roof. Having your roofer there during that inspection is recommended so they can work alongside the adjuster. Remember, the roofer is on your side, the insurance adjuster is protecting the insurance company’s money. In many cases, the roofing company will also be able to provide help with roof insurance claims as a part of helping with any storm damage.

Staying On Top Of It

By following a routine seasonal roof maintenance schedule, or having it professionally done regularly, you will not only save yourself from expensive repairs, but you’ll extend your roof’s lifespan too. If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out to us. Call today at 513-563-9988 to speak to one of our roofing professionals.

Is roof cleaning really necessary? 

It may not be ‘the law’, but if you want to keep your home healthy, then yes, roof cleaning should be considered necessary. Your roof is currently durable and protective, but over time, you’ll start to see dark streaks forming caused by algae growth. That algae will be accompanied by assorted debris, dirt, dust, and leaves sticking to it, taking away from the aesthetics of your home. 

So, consider these three primary reasons why you should make roof cleaning part of your spring-cleaning process here in Cincinnati: 

1. Keep Your Home Looking Good

Whether you have an asphalt, metal, or tile roof, you want the beauty of the colors and style to shine! And if your home is in an HOA neighborhood, roof cleaning is most likely required. Regardless of where you’re located, think curb appeal! And if you’re planning on selling your home, a roof cleaning could be the one thing that makes your home stand out above the others.

2. Lifespan Is Doubled

Getting a new roof installed is a substantial investment and you want to take care of that investment so that you can get the most from it. Annual roof cleaning will get the algae, debris, dirt, dust, limbs, and other things off will extend your roof’s lifespan. You can do this yourself or hire a professional who will have the proper equipment, supplies, and methods so that your investment isn’t damaged.

3. Energy Efficiency

A new roof is energy-efficient after it is installed, but it won’t stay that way if it gets coated in algae and other debris. Regular roof cleaning keeps those things that will decrease energy efficiency, saving you money on utilities and keeping your home comfortable inside. 

What is there to know about roof cleaning?

You have a garden hose with a nozzle attached, what more is there to know when it comes to roof cleaning? Well, first of all, that garden hose and nozzle probably aren’t going to do a thorough roof cleaning. Second, unlike a professional contractor, you won’t know the amount of pressure to use if you do have a pressure washer and you won’t know what chemical products to use. 

There are two methods of roof cleaning, each having risks. Those methods are: 

• Pressure Washing: This is done with a pressure washer that sprays water on the roof and is great for removing algae, dirt, mold, and more. 
• Chemical Cleaning: This is often referred to as a soft washing process. This method uses chemicals that remove those harmful elements from the roof. 

What are the risks of roof cleaning?

The risks associated with the two methods of roof cleaning are: 

• Pressure Washing: When done at the wrong pressure, you can do more damage than roof cleaning.
• Chemical Cleaning: The downside to this is the runoff can damage or harm any landscaping around the house if protective measures aren’t taken to protect those areas.

What is the cost of roof cleaning and is it worthwhile?

The cost of a professional roof cleaning will depend on the shape and size of the roof as well as the roofing material. They can start around $300 and go upward, you may find a less expensive roof cleaning service, but make sure they are experienced, licensed, and insured. 

In Closing 

As you consider having roof cleaning done this spring, remember two things: You’ll be extending the lifespan of your roof, a huge investment for any homeowner. And, your home will be outstanding in the neighborhood, a big plus if you’re planning on selling your home. 

Along with the roof cleaning, have the siding cleaned as well. This is just another bright spot to make your home look its best. Along with the siding being cleaned, most contractors will clean any sidewalks and walkways too. 

Cincinnati Gutter & Roof Protection assists with roof cleaning in Cincinnati, OH. Call 513-563-9988 for services. 

What is the least expensive material for a roof replacement?

For the budget-minded homeowner, this is the first question, and with good reason. There are multitudes of roofing materials available, but logic tells you that going with the cheapest may not be the best idea. In addition to saving money upfront, you want to choose something that is going to last beyond the first hailstorm, right? After all, you don’t want to pay for another roof replacement for a long, long time! 

If you drive the streets of Cincinnati, Ohio, or any city in America, you’ll notice that asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material. Why? Because it is an affordable material and is still durable. But within the category of asphalt shingles, there are three choices to make your roof replacement: 

• Three-Tab: This is installed in a single layer without any overlap and has a lifespan of up to 15 years and typically holds up well under wind speeds of up to 60 miles per hour.
• Architectural: These asphalt shingles are installed with some overlap, providing a home with a slight dimensional look that can last up to 30 years and windspeeds up to 120 miles per hour. 
• Luxury: These are the most expensive asphalt shingles with a lifespan of up to 50 years, withstanding all types of weather better and longer, and they are more fire resistant. This is the top-of-the-line in asphalt shingles and you won’t be looking at another roof replacement probably for the rest of your time in that house.

How often does a roof need to be replaced?

As you can see by the lifespan of the three different asphalt shingles, you may need a roof replacement in 15 years (or less) or you may not need another roof replacement for 50 years.  The average most asphalt shingled roofs in Ohio need replacing between 12 and 15 years.  

What is the best roof for your money?

Metal roof replacement is said to be the best for the money by most roofing contractors. It is more expensive than asphalt shingles, including the architectural or luxury shingles we described above. Going with a corrugated metal roof replacement doesn’t mean your home will look like Grandpa’s old barn either! 

The metal used for roofing homes in Ohio today comes in a wide choice of colors so that you can match your home’s architectural style. It has a lifespan on average of 50 years, but some have lasted 75 years or longer. It is installed in flexible sheets, available in different thicknesses, getting heavier with each increase in thickness. Other advantages of a metal roof replacement include: 

1. Strength: A metal roof replacement can withstand winds up to 150 miles per hour and provide better protection in a lightning strike. 
2. Insect Resistance: A metal roof replacement is insect resistant, including termites.
3. Energy Efficient: With a proper ceramic coating, a metal roof will keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. 
4. Recyclable: The metal used for a roof replacement typically is made from recycled metals and can be recycled again with the next roof replacement. 

What type of roof is the most cost-effective?

Again, metal wins! This is your most cost-effective choice for a roof replacement because of the extreme durability it provides. Even though it has a higher cost for installation, it will last two to three times longer than the best asphalt shingle.

Why is algae free roofing needed?

As you drive through your neighborhood, do you notice any houses with those dark ugly streaks on the roof? This isn’t a “green roof”, but instead, it is a living organism that is spreading across the roof, eating away at the shingles.  That organism is called algae and it isn’t something you want.  

Algae’s official name is Gloeocapsa Magma, a blue-green growth that turns black as it takes over the roof. It loves roofs that don’t get much sun, and the more humid and warmer the temperature, the better it likes it.  Because it can do a lot of damage to a roof in a short time, algae free roofing is requested by more homeowners today. 

If the roof on your home is in a damp, shaded, or warm, area, or any combination of these three things, here are the benefits you can expect from algae free roofing: 

• Appearance: No matter what color you choose for your roofing shingles, if an algae infestation starts, the color is going to change to black. With an algae free roofing material, your roof will stay the color you chose, keeping your home’s curb appeal looking good. 
• Energy Costs: Algae may seem like another layer on the roof to protect it from the elements, but it isn’t. It is a layer of live organisms that are eating the shingles. That algae build-up is blocking the reflectiveness that shingles provide, allowing the UV rays to heat the roof, which heats the attic, and then your HVAC system works harder, using more energy, to keep your home comfortable. An algae free roofing material will protect those reflective properties and help keep your energy bills down.
• Moss: Algae, lichen, and moss are all live organisms that will plant their roots into your shingles. Then the roots spread under the shingles, loosening them, and allowing water to penetrate. More moisture seems into the attic, and before long, you’re needing a new roof. 

Can algae hurt your roof?

Once algae get started on your roof, it will grow on the limestone granules that make up the asphalt shingles, consuming the limestone and weakening the shingles. Algae will invite its friends’ fungus, mildew, and mold to a party on your roof, producing a more advanced life formation of lichen. This is a more destructive, hardy, and sturdier growth that will ruin your roof and compromise the structural integrity. 

What is the difference between algae and mold?

Algae is more like a plant that dines on the limestone in your asphalt shingles. It also likes to dine on the siding around your home where it finds other organic matter. Mold is a fungus and requires nutrients for survival, which it gets from the algae. 

Why does algae grow on roofs?

 That blue-green algae that are spreading your roof is doing that by airborne spores because the things it needs are on your roof: 

• Heat
• Moisture
• Nutrients

The humidity caused by the sun hitting your roof gives algae heat and moisture. And the limestone in the asphalt shingles gives it the nutrients. By feeding on the inorganic materials that your roofing material offers, it can continue to grow and spread. With algae free roofing materials, this is one problem you won’t have! 

What are the different types of algae that grows on roofs? 

You’ll find different types of algae in several places, including pond scum, kelp, and seaweed, along with a host of other types.  There are only one algae that your roof needs to fear: Gloeocapsa Magma, the blue-greenish algae that turn black as it eats your roofing shingles. With an algae free roofing material, homes in climates where the summer is humid and warm can enjoy the weather without concern about the roofing being destroyed. 

Can you clean algae off of roofs?

A consistent routine of having your home power washed, including the roof, keeps your home looking good. Where the roof is concerned, it will remove any wet leaves, seeds, twigs, or other debris that causes algae, lichen, mildew, and mold to start growing. 

How long do algae resistant shingles last?

The warranty on asphalt shingle algae free roofing material can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, and within their various lines. The average is 20 years, but some of the lower grade quality products with only a 5-year warranty on the algae free roofing. 

Are algae resistant shingles worth it?

Yes, especially when you choose the 20-year warranty algae free roofing materials.  This can extend the lifespan of your roof by another 5 to 10 years.

Maintenance

Yes, regular cleaning is absolutely necessary. This is one home maintenance chore that is crucial to your home and too often overlooked. Yes, before winter sets in, you have a list of must-do things, and if gutter cleaning isn’t on that list, you need to add it there. 

Gutter cleaning services your home by removing debris, leaves, and sticks so the rain, melted ice, and snow can flow freely off the roof on out past your home. This is a crucial step in protecting the foundation and the roof. Here are five reasons why gutter cleaning is so important: 

1. Water Damage Prevention. Keeping gutters and downspouts clean will from debris and leaves allows the gutters to drain as designed and intended. When they are clogged, the water overflows the gutters,  runs down the siding, and causes water damage to the exterior and interior.  
2. Roof Protection. With clogged gutters, the rainwater has nowhere to flow, so it backs up under the shingles, rotting the shingles and the under decking, creating leaks. 
3. Pest Control. Clogged gutters create a desirable home for birds, insects, and rodents. Once they get in the gutters, they find a way into your attic and home. 
4. Foundation Protection. When the gutters are clogged, what water doesn’t back up under the shingles will spill over the sides and pool around the foundation of your home. As the water gets under the foundation, it freezes and thaws through the winter, and will cause the foundation to crack. Then when the weather warms up the ground, your home will begin to sink in places. 
5. Money Saver. Yes, if you don’t clean your own gutters and have a gutter cleaning service do the work, it will cost upfront. Down the road though, it will prevent having expensive and unexpected projects, like foundation leveling and repair or replacing the roof. 

How often should gutters be cleaned?

 Now that you know the importance of why gutter cleaning services are valuable, the next question is when to do gutter cleaning? It depends on the foliage around your home. In most homes, gutter cleaning twice a year is recommended. If there is heavy foliage around your home, like pine trees, three times a year may be needed.

Other factors to consider in determining the frequency and when is the amount of rainfall and snow your home gets during the year. Having a gutter cleaning service at the end of fall and before winter will remove leaves and twigs, other debris that has collected over the fall. Schedule gutter cleaning service after the spring rains is recommended. This gets the bird and critters that have nested out of the gutter runs.

What is the best gutter cleaning solution?

If you want to save money and do the gutter cleaning service yourself, use your water hose with a nozzle that has a strong forced stream with a mixture of water and white vinegar. This makes one of the best gutter cleaning options to clean the gutters and downspouts without corroding the aluminum gutter runs. If the exterior of the gutters needs polishing, use water and cream of tartar to create a paste and gently buff the gutter and downspout exteriors. 

Conclusion

Perhaps you have some more questions, such as whether you should be doing your own gutter cleaning. Or maybe a gutter cleaning service is the better choice? Okay, do some gutter cleaning yourself and you may decide it is worth paying to have it done. Don’t trust the local neighborhood kid for this job, either. Hire a professional gutter cleaning service. And before you make that call, you may want to know – what is the average price for gutter cleaning? The average cost can range between $75 and up to $250, depending on the size of the house, the gutter run lengths, and the number of downspouts. Usually, a company will give you a quote before scheduling your service so you have a better idea of what you’ll be paying.

Cincinnati Gutter & Roof Protection assists with professional gutter cleaning in Cincinnati, OH. Call 513-563-9988 today.