Surface residues or discoloring stains can affect almost any type roof. One actual condition that has get even more commonplace in new geographic regions is discoloring of asphalt shingle roofing due to algae. Often this condition only has an impact on a roof's appearance, though, with certain roof products or the presence of other negative factors it may effect on the final service life of the roof.
The staining and tarnishing due to algae initially appears as dark brown and black, or occasionally greenish streaks then spread across the roof surface. This staining isn't like the taints due to dirt and tree debris that tends to amass on localized areas of a roof ; but it isn't uncommon to find both conditions on some roofs. It's most noticeable on white or other light colored roofs.
Due to its appearance, the darkening from algae is often referred to as "black mold" marking. But the vast majority of the growths aren't a mould fungus at all, but the type of algae formation that feeds on organic material such as the filler ( calcium carbonate ) used in the granulated ceramic surface covering the asphalt shingles.
The algae expansion tends to happen most frequently on the north and eastern surfaces or where the roof is shaded or otherwise slow-drying after rains. The growths can be discovered in nearly all regions, though the issue is more widespread in regions where the weather is warm and damp at least part of the year. Prolonged hot, wet summer weather is a real contributory allow for allowing the algae to become well established. Cold, dry weather can slow or stop the spread but may not eliminate the condition altogether as the stains will remain.
Spores from the algae are carried by the wind. The successive growth of moss and other fungi that prosper on the algae and other organic matter that amasses on the roof can heighten conditions.
Some techniques used to fight the algae are most likely damaging to the roof and to the encompassing property. Aggressive washing ( e.g, by washing or hi-pressure spraying ) and the associated roof traffic can cause the loss of granules or other damages to the shingles leading to premature roof failure.
There are commercially available treatments, as well as execs that specialize in the work. Only cleaning solutions recommended by the roof manufacturer should be used. While some treatments will kill the algae right away, it might take a few weeks or days for the color to vanish. Unfortunately, cleaning is only a short term benefit at best mostly. If spores are there, the algae will begin to grow again almost instantly if the conducive leading to its expansion in the first instance are still present.
To avoid injury or roof damage, it is best to have the roof treated professionally. The cleaning solutions will make the roof surface greasy and dangerous. Before applying cleaning solutions, any mud buildup or waste should be carefully removed. Foundation plantings should be covered and the applicator should wear protecting glasses, gloves and clothes. Some cleaning solutions can kill grass and other foliage, so run-off from the treatment process should be collected or diverted to an appropriate drainage point. It's also vital to rinse the gutters and other surfaces with clear water to stop the solution from corroding or staining them.
The most effective way to fight the staining and discoloration from algae is to prevent it from growing. Makers offer products with algae-inhibiting features. Labeled "algae resistant" ( AR ) or "fungi resistant," they have zinc granules incorporated into the outer layer of the shingles next to the ordinary ceramic-coated granules to stop the algae growth on the granules. Copper or zinc strips placed at the ridge area of the roof can also control the growths. Installing a dark roof will not stop the algae problem but it will be less obvious.
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