Are you starting to notice dark streaks and discoloration across your roof shingles? It’s likely that the discoloration that you are seeing on your roof shingles is caused by a blue and green algae. These are algae spores that quickly spread through the air in human environments and they can work at spreading themselves across every element of your roof except for metal components coated with zinc or copper. Zinc or copper components can be toxic to algae and this is why you often see the solid streaks making their way across other roofing components but not making their way into the flashing.
The discoloration which is caused by algae spores will not hurt your roof but it does work to detract from the overall aesthetic appeal of your home. Most people consider algae to be a roofing issue and many homeowners are interested in removing the algae as it looks like a sign that you have not properly maintained your roof. Getting rid of discoloration on a roof can be done easily with the help of a professional. Using a chemical cleaner can work at reducing the look of algae but taking on this approach will often lead to lowering the life expectancy of your roofing materials. Eco-friendly solvents can remove algae from shingles without damaging your plants, working with a professional can make sure that you can preserve the integrity of your roofing materials without having to deal with unsightly dark spots and discoloration in your roof shingles.
One of the greatest ways to prevent algae from growing on your roof and shingles is to use a zinc coated strip of sheet metal below the ridge of your shingles. Many shingle manufacturers also have options for algae resistant shingles containing copper granules. Choosing either of these options can help to prepare you for managing discoloration.
Contact us today if you are facing discoloration in your roofing shingles, we can work at creating solutions that will improve the look of your home and prevent ongoing algae growth!
This post was written by Ted Williams! Ted is the owner of A Old Time Roofing, one of the best roofing companies in St Petersburg FL. Ted is a Master Elite Weather Stopper GAF Roofing Contractor, a double award winner of Best Steep-Slope Contractor from GAF and achiever of Master Elite Consumer Protection Excellence from GAF. He has been serving the Pinellas County area since 1978. A Old Time Roofing has been a tradition in quality workmanship, servicing residential and commercial properties.
