Cleaning it Softly
Black Streaks On Roof
What Are The Black Streaks On My Roof?
Unsightly black stains or streaks on asphalt shingles are caused by a hardy type of algae called Gloeocapsa Magma. The algae feeds on the crushed limestone that is used in asphalt shingles. Rain spreads the algae down the roof causing the black streaks. These streaks are not only unsightly but cause the shingles to fail prematurely by not allowing the shingles to reflect heat properly.
50% Of Roofs Are Replaced Due To The Way They Look.
This is not because of their functionality. Half of the roofs ever replaced didn't need replaced, only cleaned. Just as mold and mildew can grow on your vinyl siding, wind blown algae can land and grow on your roof. Replacing your roof because of this algae is like replacing your siding instead of having it cleaned; it just doesn't make sense.
Some roofing contractors don't know what these black streaks are, saying it's the asphalt showing through the shingles or that it's water stains. Some contractors may know it's algae but tell you it can't be cleaned without damaging the shingles. In either case, they may tell you that the roof needs replaced. This is not true if your shingles are still in good shape. The algae can be killed and removed properly without damaging the shingles using a low pressure chemical application (recommended by shingle manufacturers).
Clean it softly. Never use a pressure washer on an asphalt shingle or any type of roof, doing so will blow granules off the shingles and lessen the longevity of your roof.
Roof Cleaning Is Recommended By Shingle Manufacturers. Companies like Owens Corning and GAF, and also the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association recommend a low pressure chemical application using certain cleaners to restore shingles suffering from roof algae, followed by a low pressure rinse. We use the cleaners and methods recommended by these companies, for a safe and damage free roof cleaning.
If your shingles are still in good shape but have roof algae on them, having your roof cleansed will allow you to get the full life out of your shingles, saving you thousands of dollars.
