A microscopic organism known as Gloeocapsa Magma is responsible for dark streaks or stains that appear on rooftops. This organism thrives in areas that are well-ventilated with moisture and warmth, like the rooftops at USF in Tampa. Gloeocapsa Magma, also known as algae, can ruin a home’s aesthetic beauty.
This organism can slowly destroy the roof’s structural integrity if left untreated. It can also consume the limestone in composite shingles. This unsightly infestation can be dealt with in a number of ways. It is best to clean your roof properly and prevent any future growth.
Take out dark stains
A rooftop clean every now and again can help reduce the appearance of streaks and dark stains. The first step in this process is to choose the cleaning solution that you prefer. Because they are non-toxic and biodegradable, roof cleaners such as Spray & Forget or Wet & Forget to provide the best solution.
Even if the bleach is diluted, chlorine bleach can still be toxic to the environment. Bleach can cause serious health problems for humans, animals, plants, and other living things if it is allowed to remain in the environment for long enough. If homeowners do not want to use bleach, they should look into oxygen-based bleach. This less-invasive bleach is less likely to damage landscaping and is better for the environment.
Mix more water into your bleach solution than bleach to make it stronger. Mix the bleach solution in a 60:40 ratio. Spray nearby plants with water, and then cover them with a tarp. Make sure you collect any cleaner that isn’t being used by your gutter system. This will allow you to dispose of the liquid later.
The next step after deciding on the roof cleaning solution is to apply the liquid to the roof. Avoid using a pressure washer during this process. This can cause permanent damage to your roof and could void any manufacturer warranties. Instead, consider using a pump garden sprayer. Keep these tips in mind.
- Do not stand in wet areas
- Start near the Top
- Columns less than four feet across
- Keep the Solution on for 15-20 minutes
- Do Not Let Cleaner Dry
- Rinse with water
- Repetition if necessary
Rooftop stains can be removed by a thorough cleaning. However, they will return if there are not further preventative steps taken. It is possible to have long-term adverse effects by repeatedly exposing your roof to a corrosive chemical soak.
Preventative Measures
Install a copper or zinc strip on the roof to reduce cleaning. Zinc or Copper are natural algae repellents, with copper being the most effective. Zinc can also make roofs shine, which makes it less attractive than copper.
Over time, each type of chemical strip gradually releases tiny particles of copper or zinc. This protective coating prevents the growth of algae on your roof. This is evident when you look at houses with a dark roof and notice that there are no algae-free sections. This is usually due to zinc or copper being used above the chimneys.
Be careful not to leave nails exposed when installing your chemical strip at the roof’s peak. Leakage can result from this. Make sure the roof shingles have not been damaged by the sealant. Your roof could be vulnerable to wind damage if they have been damaged. For best results, leave at least an inch and a quarter exposed.
There are other ways to prevent algae growth
Algae blooming can be difficult to manage in USF in Tampa, which has perfect weather conditions. Consider the following options to reduce the chance of dark streaks appearing again.
- Trimming Tree Branches to Make Rooftop Sun-Proof
- To promote water drainage, clean your gutters often
- Get rid of all debris from your roof as soon as possible
You deserve a clean roof, no matter how you choose to use a premade or homemade roof cleaner.
A new roof or maintenance for homeowners in the USF campus in Tampa is required. Consider installing an algae-resistant roof. Composite shingles can be purchased with copper fragments added. This roof type is offered by professional roofing companies like Reggie Reed to homeowners as a preventative against dark roof stains.
This post was written by Reggie Reed! Reggie is a state-certified roofing contractor and co-owner of Reggie Reed Roofing, the best Roofing Companies in Pinellas County. He is a 4th generation roofing contractor. RR Roofing offers a wide variety of roofing services for residential homes, apartment complexes, condos, commercial buildings, churches, and more. Reggie enjoys dedicating his spare time to helping underprivileged youth in his community and traveling with his family and friends.
