The roof of a home is the first line of defense against the elements. It is important to keep it clean to extend its life and prevent damage.
Moss, algae, black streaks, lichens, mildew and mold all can eat away at the surface of your shingles or tiles and cause leaks in your home. Roof Cleaning Sarasota helps prevent these problems and increases its resale value.
Algae growth on roofs is not only unsightly, but it can also cause damage to your shingles. It is especially problematic if you have a dark-colored roof. The algae can leave black streaks that drastically reduce the beauty and value of your home. Fortunately, this is a simple problem to fix. Generally, you can simply use a bleach solution to remove the algae and rinse your roof thoroughly afterward. However, if your roof is heavily infested with algae or you notice significant streaking, it may be best to call a professional for help.
Moss and algae are more than just a cosmetic issue; they can cause severe damage to the shingles and other roofing materials, reducing their life. Moreover, moss can actually curl the edges of your shingles, making them more likely to blow off in windy weather. While moss is not as much of a threat to the shingles as algae, it still needs to be removed as soon as possible.
A simple hose-down with a 50/50 mix of water and chlorine bleach should be enough to kill the moss on your roof. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the affected areas. You can also buy a specialized roof cleaner that contains ingredients to kill and remove both moss and algae. These products are typically safer and less toxic than chlorine bleach. They are usually sold in ready-to-use spray bottles that attach to a hose. They are usually less expensive than other roofing-related cleaning products. When using this type of product, be sure to wet down foundation plantings with clean water before spraying the roof.
There are many factors that contribute to the growth of moss and algae on your roof, including the amount of rainfall in your area, the number of trees surrounding your house, and whether your roof is shaded. Removing sources of shade (such as trimming overhanging trees and moving garden features) can help deter moss and algae from forming on your roof. Additionally, choosing a roof with algae-resistant shingles can make it less likely that the pesky organisms will form.
Removal of Black Streaks
Black streaks on roofs are often caused by a specific type of algae called gloeocapsa magma. These blue-green algae spores come from all over the world and are very common in areas with high humidity. The algae feed on the limestone filler used in asphalt shingles and also photolyze any moisture that hits the surface of the roof to produce oxygen. The dark color appears as a streak or stain and can be quite unsightly. As the bacteria continue to grow and accumulate, the roof can begin to degrade. This leads to sagging and leaks. The good news is that these stains are not dangerous to humans or pets but they still need to be removed as soon as possible.
There are multiple ways to remove black stains from roofs but the most effective method is to use a power washer. Be sure to use a low pressure setting and always be safe while cleaning the roof. One wrong move and you could damage the shingles. It is best to leave this job to professionals with experience in roof cleaning.
Aside from removing the mold, algae, and moss, washing the roof can reveal any structural issues that may be present. A thorough cleaning also helps prevent future occurrences of these organisms so the structure is protected for as long as possible. Aside from the aesthetics, a clean roof is an important part of maintaining a home.
In addition, a professional roof cleaning will expose soft spots in the structure of the house and allow for quick repair. These repairs can save the homeowner a lot of money and help preserve the framework of their home. This is especially important if the house is in an older neighborhood where other homeowners have experienced problems with their roofs.
Many people try to clean their own roofs using basic bleach solutions. However, this is not a good idea because it can be dangerous to plants that are nearby and harmful to outdoor furniture that is on the property. A professional can use a special chemical that will kill the mold and algae without damaging the shingles.
Preventing Water Damage
A roof that is regularly cleaned can protect a home and the inside of it from water damage. This is especially important when the weather turns wet. Water damage from a leaking roof is costly and can result in mildew or mold and damage to interior walls, floors, and furnishings. Regular cleaning can prevent this and save money in the long run.
Many homeowners choose to clean their own roofs or hire a company to do it for them. This can be a dangerous job, particularly when it comes to two- or three story homes. It also requires a lot of equipment that may not be available to the average homeowner and can be difficult if not done correctly.
The main benefit of having a professional do a roof cleaning is to protect the structural integrity of a home and the roofing materials. If the organic matter such as moss, algae, or lichen is allowed to grow and spread over the surface of the roof it can cause damage to the shingles and other roofing materials by blocking out light and holding moisture. It can also erode the surface of a roof and lead to future problems such as moss, rot, and leaks.
In addition, a professional roof cleaning can help to identify problem areas of the structure and indicate the need for repairs. Moisture, rust or corrosion, soft spots and the presence of fungus all signal the need for roof repair. If these are not repaired, they can lead to more expensive roof repairs in the future.
One of the biggest reasons for a roof leak is clogged gutters. The water from the rain or snow must go somewhere and if it is forced back over the roof by the weight of a full gutter it can create a hole. Regular cleaning of gutters and downspouts can help prevent clogging and prevent water flowing over the roof.
Inspecting and repairing minor leaks promptly can prevent major and expensive water damage to the home and the resulting mold, mildew, and fungus that can be caused by it. This is a great way to protect your investment in your home and to add value should you ever decide to sell it.
Preventing Mold and Mildew
Roof mold is the most serious of the microbial overgrowths that can plague a home. It often appears as black or green streaks or patches and is more than just an eyesore; it can cause structural damage to the roof, rotting of the underlying wood, and even health problems for family members. Mold spores are carried by the air and can be deposited in other homes, as well, making it important to nip moldy shingles and organic growth in the bud.
A number of commercial products can be used to kill mold on a roof and prevent its return. Products like D7 are available as a spray or foam, making it easy to target the impacted area. When applying these products, follow all recommended safety precautions to protect yourself and your property. This includes wearing rubber gloves, eye protection, a respirator or mask, and tarps to cover surrounding vegetation. Also, ensure you have a secure ladder and are not working alone.
Chlorine bleach is another good choice for killing mold. It is available in pre-mixed solutions and can be mixed with water in a pump sprayer. When using this product, be sure to allow for the maximum soak time recommended to minimize shingle damage. It is also helpful to use a sprayer with a fine mist, rather than a powerful stream, to limit the amount of force applied to the shingles.
Several natural remedies can be used to combat mold and mildew on a roof. White vinegar and hydrogen peroxide are effective at eliminating mold spores when applied to a damp surface. A solution of one part vinegar to ten parts water can be sprayed and left to soak for about an hour before wiping away.
Keeping up with regular roof cleaning and inspections can help to prevent overgrowths of algae, moss, mold, and mildew. By recognizing visual signs, paying attention to odors, and noting negative health symptoms, homeowners can nip these organisms in the bud, protecting their home, their family, and preventing costly issues like structural damage and loss of energy efficiency.