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| WHAT ARE THESE BLACK STREAKS ON MY ROOF? I have heard people say that the black streaks on roofs are caused by everything from acorns cracking on the surface to tree sap or shingle degradation due to granule loss. While these might be possibilities, the fact is that in most cases, the stains and streaks are a form of algae or moss. Roof algae, commonly known as Gloeocapsa Magma, is a type of algae that thrives in humid and warm climates and usually appears first on the North slope of the roof where shade is prevalent and moisture tends to accumulate. The result is usually a black streaked roof. Roof moss' roof algae and moss spores are carried by the wind until all roofs in the area are infested. Roof moss is very dangerous because it will grow underneath the roof shingle and act like a sponge soaking up water after a good rain. Eventually the moss will cause roof leaks if not treated. Roof moss also accumulates on the North side of the home or where shade is most prevalent. Roof algae, once attached to a shingled roof, feeds on the dead organic matter used in the manufacturing process of the shingle. As the fungus breaks down the asphalt shingle, the ceramic granules protecting the surface of the shingle are loosened and begin to fall off. This causes the roof to deteriorate prematurely and diminishes the roof's abilities to reflect heat rays. If not treated, the roof algae will reduce the life of your roof, diminish your home’s curb appeal and increase your home cooling expenses. Unfortunately, traditional roof cleaning methods have used high pressure washing and/or hazardous chemical ingredients such as bleach, sodium hydroxide (Lye), copper, zinc, or acid. These techniques could damage the integrity of the roof, your landscaping and even cause harm to siding, brick, windows, gutters and awnings. Now, there is a safer product on the market that can eliminate these problems. The initial removal of roof algae and moss is always more difficult then the prevention of roof algae or moss once the roof is cleaned. A standard practice should be to clean your roof and then apply a preventative every 18-24 months to keep the stains from returning. Roof cleaning and prevention has never been easier. Many people spend countless hours and money cleaning their respective homes every year only to ignore one of the most visible and important parts of the home, the roof. Adding a roof algae/moss prevention program to your annual spring cleaning chores will result in a beautiful home that looks fresh and clean! For additional information on roof cleaning products, preventatives and equipment, Clean-Roof. com Article written by Scott Dudjak
Research has lead us to safer and more effective product for treating roof algae, moss, fungus, mold, mildew and lichens. Our product is oxygen based and has the ability to penetrate the dense cell wall of these plants, prohibit new growth, thus killing the plant. Dirt, soot, and crud dissolving agents are also added to clean and brighten the shingles. Our product also possesses a lingering cleaning ability. Rainfall energizes any residual residue, which helps it keep working. Best of all, this product has none of the harmful side effects of chlorine or lye. It is 100% biodegradable and safe for vegetation, animals, gutters, and siding. When you consider all of the facts about various cleaners, our product comes out on top in every way. Algae, moss, mold and mildew are among the oldest and most primitive life forms on earth. Ridding them is difficult because they have developed a unique molecular structure, which enables them to survive, where other organisms cannot. Wiser with age, they can exist on material considered far too difficult for most living things. Chlorine and bleach based cleaners are a poor choice at best for treating this problem. They have little, if any ability to actually penetrate the cell wall, so their effectiveness is only temporary. Re-growth is only weeks or months away. Proof of this can be seen in millions of swimming pools, ponds, and so on. Chlorine is also very toxic to humans, fish, and animals. Some roof cleaning products contain lye or sodium hydroxide, and although quite effective for roof cleaning, there are some very important drawbacks. Sodium hydroxide is the principal ingredient in most drain and oven cleaners. It is very corrosive and may damage gutters, siding, and painted surfaced, to name a few. Special skin and breathing protection is also required. Most types of vegetation will not tolerate even the smallest dose of this chemical. The use of sodium hydroxide should be left to professionals who have the proper training, equipment and expertise to minimize health risks and property damage. |
| Clean-Roof.com Call Doug Webb 513-476-4305 or www.clean-roof.com |