Black streaks or stains on asphalt shingle roofs is becoming an increasing problem all around the country. Many home owners are not aware of what these unsightly black roof streaks are. Roof streaks normally first start appearing on the north facing slopes of a roof where shade and moisture are most prevalent. This occurrence is caused by an airborne algae known as gloeocapsa magma or simply known as roof algae. This roof algae can be cleaned off the roof safely without causing harm to the shingles. Roof cleaning can restore a roof’s appearance thus increasing the home’s value by boosting it’s curb appeal. If not taken care of, roof algae will eventually take over the entire roof, will raise the home’s heating and cooling costs, and will lessen the longevity of the shingles. The major shingle manufacturers have cleaning recommendations for asphalt shingles suffering from roof algae. They also warn against the use of excessive water pressure from a pressure washing unit. The roof cleaners should be applied using a low pressure chemical application.
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