If you happen to notice black streaks or dark spots multiplying on your roofing, especially in the spring or summer, you have reason to worry. Your roof isn’t just dirty; it’s being invaded by a microscopic parasite commonly known as blue-green algae. If you notice this phenomenon occurring on your roof, keep this information in mind.
The Origin
When algae spores are transferred onto a roof by the wind and meet with warm, moist conditions, algae will begin to grow. Once it takes hold, algae growth will spread, because asphalt shingles contain crushed limestone – an excellent food source for algae to feed on. When the roof dries out and the algae dies, unsightly dark spots of discoloration are left behind.
Getting Rid of Algae Stains
Roofs can be dangerous in the best conditions, but adding water and cleaning solutions in an effort to clean algae stains will make it much more dangerous. Muth & Company can recommend a safe option for cleaning, or a local company that specializes in this kind of roof cleaning. Power washing is one method that should be avoided, as it can wash off the shingles’ protective granules. Unfortunately, not all algae stains can be removed completely, so we can’t promise a totally stain-free roof after cleaning.
Fighting Back with Algae-Resistant Shingles
If your roof’s up for replacement and you’re looking for a long-term solution to this ugly problem, the best option would be to have your favorite roofing company, Muth & Company Roofing, install GAF’s new and improved algae-fighting shingles.
While GAF’s previous algae-resistant shingles contained specialized embedded copper granules and did a good job of combating algae, over time they eventually started to lose their effectiveness. Now, GAF has announced a brand-new, patent-pending, breakthrough innovation that’s going to be a game-changer in the fight against blue-green algae: StainGuard Plus™ Algae Protection.
This technology uses specially-engineered capsules infused with thousands of copper microsites. These particles spread throughout the capsule, where over time they are slowly and steadily released in just the right amount to prevent algae growth. This advanced technology is available only on GAF Timberline Ultra HD® shingles sold in bundles with the StainGuard Plus™ stamp.
If you need a roof cleaning or replacement due to algae discoloration, or want to find out more about GAF’s revolutionary new algae-fighting product, call Muth & Company Roofing at (614) 682-3060 for help.