Roof Algae Growth
Algae growth on residential roofing is a serious matter and should not be ignored. When left alone, algae can cause shingles to deteriorate and rot, leaving your roof decking and home unprotected from the elements. Removing, preventing, and maintaining your home from roof algae don’t have to be labor intensive tasks. There are many steps that can be done by reliable roofing companies, like Cincinnati Gutter & Roof Protection. To protect the roof shingles on your Cincinnati, OH, contact Cincinnati Gutter & Roof Protection. We provide all kinds of prevention services, including algae prevention roof shingle installations. Call us today, 513-563-9988, to discuss these roof shingles for your home.
Roof Algae Types and Prevention
When considering removing and preventing algae growth on your roof, there are several options. But first, it’s important to understand what kind of algae can spawn on your roof. Knowing this can not only help you in the removal process, but also in the prevention process as well.
Roof Algae Types
There are typically two types of algae that grow in between and on roof shingles: black algae and green algae. Either can be identified because of distinctive properties. We want to provide you the tools to look for either black or green algae so you know what to do should you find them on your roof.
- Black Algae: Black algae can be identified by dark, black water stains on roofing material. It can also cause what is called extractive bleeding. This causes asphalt shingles to lose color, appearing as though something has streaked across it.
- Green Algae: Green stains and patches of green algae are often a little easier to identify. They clearly stand out more so than black algae can. Green algae, like black algae, can grow in between and on asphalt shingles, creating a bed of green. It can become very slippery so use caution if you are on your roof inspecting for it.
Algae is often mistaken for moss, but the two are actually different. Believe it or not, finding algae on your roof is considered better than finding moss. Algae is easier to remove and prevent, whereas moss takes quite a bit of effort. Additionally, algae is easier to prevent with several cost-friendly options.
Roof Algae Prevention Tips
When it comes to preventing algae, there are in fact several things homeowners and roofers can do. All of these options have been tested and show clear signs of decreasing and eventually preventing algae growth.
- Atlas Shingles: investing algae resistant shingles are one sure way to prevent algae growth. These particular shingles, offered and installed by Cincinnati Gutter & Roof Protection, are made with a Scotchguard Protector, which help resist algae growth and staining.
- Copper or Metal Strips: If algae resistant roof shingles are not something you’re interested in, the roof algae prevention strips are another great option. You’ll see around the roof flashing, algae is not present. It can’t grow around that surface. So these strips are good for preventing future growths.
- Consistent Maintenance: One of the best ways to prevent future roof algae growth is to consistently and regularly maintain your roof. Scheduling inspections and cleanings will ensure that algae, mold, and more cannot grow and damage your roof. More importantly, keeping trees trimmed back from the roof will be a great help as well.
Preventing and maintaining your roof are critical to the overall condition of your home. In many cases, homeowners may be under the impression they need an air conditioner replacement because it seems their A/C system is not cooling their house effectively. The real culprit could actually be algae that has damaged your roof, causing a loss in insulation and protection. This is why regular maintenance is so important. For reliable roof maintenance and roof shingle protection in Cincinnati, OH, turn to Cincinnati Gutter & Roof Protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does algae resistant shingles work?
- They do. The ones offered by Cincinnati Gutter & Roof Protection have a Scotchguard Protective layer that resists moisture buildup, which prevents algae and moss from growing.
- What is the best cleaner for roof shingles?
- Realistically, the best cleaner for roof shingles is a 50/50 mixture of bleach and water.
- What kills algae on shingle roofs?
- Bleach. The inexpensive option for cleaning roof algae with bleach is actually to use a 50/50 mixture of water and bleach and spraying it on the shingles. Don’t use a pressure washer, though!
- What causes algae to grow on roofs?
- Water moisture that isn’t drained or ventilated from roof structures. The algae spores like dark, damp places like gutter and downspouts.
- Why do houses grow algae?
- Because there is not enough ventilation, which creates damp grounds for algae and moss to grow.
Contact Our Team for Reliable Service
Don’t stress over algae growths on your roof. Rely on Cincinnati Gutter & Roof Protection to effectively prevent future growth and damage. Let our team come in to install preventative roof shingles for your Cincinnati, OH home. Call our office today at 513-563-9988 to schedule an appointment.
