Introduction
Did you know that many homeowners are dismayed by the black streaks they see on an asphalt roof? Ever wondered what causes black streaking on an asphalt roof and how algae resistant shingles can help?
When you know what black staining on asphalt roof aspires, it is easy to understand what causes it!
Normally, the streaks are growing algae, specifically a type of algae known as Gloeocapsa Magma (blue-green algae) that loves moist, shaded parts. These algae can stain dark over time and not only deter the appearance of the roof but can also affect the integrity and curb appeal.
Although these streaks may appear to be purely cosmetic, this roof algae can severely shorten your roof’s lifespan if not addressed. Regular roof maintenance and catching problems early are both key to guaranteeing these stains don’t result in something worse.
Our roofing experts at Rhino Roofing are professionals at diagnosing and resolving roof stains with the help of asphalt shingle roofing. Regardless of whether your roof has algae buildup or other staining issues, our team of professionals has what it takes to bring back your roof’s appearance and protect it for years to come.
What Causes Black Streaking on an Asphalt Roof?
Algae growth is a common problem that leads to black streaks on your roof shingles. The first thing for us to know is what causes these stains and so we can battle it.
Algae Growth: The Main Culprit
Black streaking is caused by the growth of Gloeocapsa magma algae on asphalt roofs. These are exactly the types of algae that thrive in a humid environment and they begin to grow and ‘feed off’ of the limestone filler in asphalt shingles and can also find their way into the hard materials of shingled roof tiles. As they spread, the algae spores grow into dark streaks which eventually get more apparent over time on the roof shingles.
Algae spores can travel by way of wind and easily spread from nearby homes or trees in areas where there is high moisture. When these spores fall on your roof, they can very quickly set up camp and cause the undesired dark streaks that are so common on asphalt shingles.
Moisture and Environmental Factors
Algae growth is very much dependent upon moisture and available humid conditions. Algae stains on roof shingles are more likely in areas of high rain or dew with some shade. Because algae thrive in a damp environment, they grow and spread all over the roof.
Also, dirt, other debris, and organic matter such as leaves that trap moisture in shingles provide perfect fodder for algae growth. The buildup of these particles can make the algae problem much worse and can be difficult to remove these algae stains.
Understanding what causes algae to grow on your roof and contributing factors will help homeowners take proactive steps to prevent algae growth or deal with that problem earlier before it causes any further damage to your roof’s surface.
Why You Should Address Black Streaks
Why it is so important to remove these stains? Here is the answer:
Impact on Your Roof’s Appearance
Your home is diminished in curb appeal by ugly blackish streaks on your roof. Depending on where you live, these roof stains can be seen from the street, making your home look older, neglected, and not cared for.
Some homeowners can find themselves overwhelmed with these stains as they seem to grow darker and more apparent over time. If you need to sell your home or are just maintaining its look, these streaks are ugly and detract from its overall appeal and value.
By addressing the issue early, not only is your home’s curb appeal greatly improved, but you also have a roof that looks well-maintained and attractive for many years to come.
Potential Roof Damage
Blackish streaks are clear to see, because of the visual impact, but the more worrying element is the roof damage they can do over time. These stains are from algae that feed on the limestone filler of asphalt shingles.
As algae feeds on the limestone the shingles become weaker and the protective roofing layer wears out as a result. If left uncontrollable, the algae can carry many more damages than just cosmetic issues. Algae buildup over time can cause structural damage, especially if algae allows a pool of (or infiltration by) water to the shingles.
Failure to keep your roof free of debris or water can increase the risk of leaks and further damage to your roof’s underlying layers. Neglected stains eventually lead to expensive roof repairs or a roof replacement.
If you can address black algal streaks, you can save on costly repairs and even extend the life of a roof covering by preventing more serious structural damage.
How to Clean Black Streaks on Asphalt Roofs
DIY Cleaning Methods
For those homeowners who wish to take care of the black algal streaks themselves, safe and effective cleaning processes are available that remove the algae causing them. Here are a few techniques to try:
- Chlorine Bleach Solution: Chlorine bleach and water is a very common method of removing algae stains. You can kill algae and help lift stains with a solution of about one part bleach to three parts water. For application apply the solution with a pump sprayer or sponge, wearing gloves and eye protection.
- Gentle Cleaning with a Garden Hose: Rinse the roof clean with a garden hose on a low–pressure setting after applying the bleach solution. It lets you wash away the algae without the risk of damaging the shingles. Never use a power washer to clean your shingles because the high pressure can loosen or damage shingles; this can make the problem worse.
Although these DIY methods will work, caution should be used. Climbing on your roof or using harsh chemicals can result in injuries or worse damage if you don’t know what you’re doing.
Professional Roof Cleaning
For minor algae stains, DIY methods can do the trick, but for a beautifully restored roof, professional attention is typically the way to go. Experienced roof cleaning professionals along with specialized equipment, can safely remove algae without damaging your shingles.
We use a safe cleaning process appropriate for parting with your particular roof’s needs at Rhino Roofing. We clean your roof following industry best practices, eliminating those black stains, and preventing further growth not only so your roof is clean, but healthy too.
Hiring a professional means that your roof remains in the best state, not covered by algae which has the potential to shorten the lifespan of your roof.
How to Prevent Black Streaking on Asphalt Roofs
Here are some ways to keep the algae off your roof:
Algae-Resistant Roofing Materials
One of the best ways to stop black streaks from forming in the first place is to use algae-resistant roofing materials. Today’s algae-resistant asphalt shingles have protection built into them to keep the algae from growing. These shingles have copper or zinc granules that slowly release a small amount of the metal that prevents algae from living off of your roof.
The benefits of installing algae-resistant shingles are twofold. They not only help you maintain a clean roof with no stains, but they also contribute to adding up more years of your roof’s life. If you install these shingles, they will keep algae from recurring and keep your roof from getting stained in the future.
If you are installing a new roof, choose these shingles as they will protect your new roof for years and help preserve your roof’s curb appeal.
Regular Roof Maintenance
Aside from having the privilege of selecting proper materials, routine roof maintenance can stop algae growth. Here are a few key tips to help maintain your roof and keep algae at bay:
- Clean Gutters Regularly: Algae loves clogged gutters because it can trap moisture and debris. Learn how to regularly clean your gutters, by keeping them clear from leaves and dirt. It allows water to flow off the roof, keeping it from becoming too moist.
- Schedule Routine Inspections: There is no doubt it is a good idea to do regular maintenance and roof inspections as it can detect any early signs of algae or moisture accumulation before it becomes bigger been a problem. If you hire a professional roofer, you will be able to catch small problems and handle them before the big repair costs pop up.
- Install Copper or Zinc Strips: Instead, install copper or zinc strips along the ridge of your roof. When it rains, these metals gradually leach these metals into the shingles, which will be a long-term solution that reduces the need for future cleanings of algae growth.
However, by following these prevention techniques, you can greatly decrease your chances of forming black streaks on your roof or increasing its lifespan in general.
FAQs
1. What causes black streaking on asphalt shingles?
Black streaks are caused by gloeocapsa magma algae, which thrive in humid environments and feed on the limestone in asphalt shingles.
2. How can I remove black streaks from my roof?
Use a garden hose with a mild bleach solution to kill algae or hire a professional to clean the roof safely. Avoid using a power washer.
3. Can algae damage my roof?
Yes, algae can degrade asphalt shingles over time, reducing their lifespan and structural integrity.
4. Are algae-resistant shingles worth the investment?
Yes, algae-resistant shingles with copper or zinc granules help prevent future stains and extend the roof’s life.
5. How can I prevent black streaks on my roof?
Regular maintenance, cleaning gutters, and using algae-resistant roofing materials are effective prevention strategies.
Take Action Now—Contact Rhino Roofing for Professional Roof Cleaning and Algae-Resistant Solutions
Do you have black streaks or algae buildup on your roof that you can see from the exterior of your home or business?
Call Rhino Roofing today for your roof maintenance and professional roof cleaning! We are known for safely and effectively cleaning, as well as installing algae-resistant shingles to prevent future stains on your roof.
We give free inspections for your roof condition, and existing stains, and then recommend what the best course of action will be. What you need, be it cleaning, shingles, or a total inspection of the roof, we have everything under one roof to restore it to its best shape.
Contact us today to schedule your free inspection, or to learn more about our algae-resistant shingles solutions!
