Have you ever seen black stains and streaks that appear across your roof? If so, you may have thought that mold was growing on your asphalt shingles or metal roof surface. However, the growth is roof algae. Fortunately, roof algae will not damage your roof. However, it can ruin your home’s curb appeal and remove its attractive features.
Roof algae are easy to remove. However, if you remove it improperly, you may damage the asphalt shingles or metal roof surface. So, before you attempt a DIY cleaning, explore all your options for restoring your roof, including replacing your old shingles with algae-resistant roofing shingles.
How Do I Know If My Roof Has Algae?
Roof algae are not difficult to identify. It will often appear as discoloration on asphalt shingles. You may notice black stains, streaks, or green mossy growth. Roof algae can also look like mold. Common signs of roof algae infestation include:
- Black streaks
- Green or white spots
- Round lichens
- Mosses
- Green moss that spreads across your roof
In Florida, algae can overtake a new roof within a few years, causing it to look worn out and old. If you notice strange discoloration or vegetative growth on your roofing system, the best thing to do is to contact a roofing contractor in Florida. A contractor can confirm the algae and recommend algae-resistant shingles to combat the problem.
What Causes Roof Algae?
The biggest contributor to roof algae is Florida’s climate. However, it’s not the only cause. Some of the most common causes of roof algae include:
- Poor roof ventilation
- Porous roofing material
- Standing water
- Clogged gutters
- Overhanging branches
The limestone filler in roofing shingles provides nutrients to algae spores. Other inorganic roofing materials allow the algae to survive, spread and darken. The wind can also blow spores onto the roof. From there, the algae will spread quickly due to the humid Florida climate.
Can I Remove Algae from My Roof?
The safest and most effective way to remove algae from your roof is to hire a professional roof cleaning company. A licensed professional can ensure that your roof is free of all algae without damaging your roof with too much water pressure or harmful chemicals.
Plus, experienced professionals use industry-grade equipment that keeps them from falling off the roof. They perform every job according to industry standards and adhere closely to OSHA regulations, which is safer for everyone. Before you choose a DIY job, consider investing in a professional roof cleaning company first. You’ll be glad you did.
Algae-Resistant Shingles: The Best Solution to Prevent Roof Algae
The most effective, long-term solution for preventing roof algae growth is algae-resistant shingles. They are ideal for the climate because manufacturers design them to prevent algae growth. Algae-resistant shingles have copper granules embedded with normal granules. This mixture prevents the algae from taking root and staining the roof.
The algae-resistant design allows the shingles to retain their color and look, ensuring that your roof benefits from long-lasting beauty. For the most part, algae-resistant shingles do work in Florida. Although the climate is perpetually hot and humid, the shingles can prevent the algae from developing. Plus, the shingles are easier to clean without the need for high water pressure or harmful chemicals.
Update Your Florida Roof with Algae-Resistant Shingles From QRS
Quality Roofing offers algae-resistant shingle replacement in Florida. We are proud to offer Atlas Roofing and CertainTeed algae-resistant roofing. Call (850) 753-0041 to schedule a roof replacement estimate.
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