If you are starting to notice that there is some discoloration on your roof or you are noticing that maybe your roof is starting to look slightly dirty with patchy black marks, then it may be time to give your roof some TLC. Black marks on your roof are very common but luckily preventable and curable. Here is all the information you need to know on what is causing those black marks on your roof and how you can get rid of them.
What Are The Black Streaks On My Roof?
If you are looking at the black streaks on your roof and wondering what they are, we have the answer. The black mark that you can clearly see is actually gloeocapsa magma. Gloeocapsa magma is a blue algae that is commonly found on roofs across the whole of the United States. It can be removed and, thankfully, will not cost you a new roof.
What Is The Main Cause Of Black Streaks On My Roof?
The main reason that you will see the development of black marks on your roof, otherwise known as gloeocapsa magma, is due to global warming and weather conditions. Gloeocapsa magma is more common throughout the southeastern United States due to the weather conditions. However, any state that experiences hot and humid weather will more likely see an increase in black marks on its roofs, including New Jersey and Delaware.
Blue algae can even grow due to the shade as the shade allows the roof to accumulate moisture. This moisture allows blue algae to thrive and grow rapidly, causing black marks to shine all across your roof. It is not just weather that can play a part in the growth of blue algae. Issues with your gutters or even having overhanging trees over your roof can cause blue algae to grow more rapidly.
How To Avoid Damaging Your Roof When You Have Black Streaks
When you start approaching how to clean the ugly black marks off your roof, you will want to avoid certain cleaning methods as they can be a waste of time and sometimes do more harm than good.
The first tip is to avoid power washing. Power washing does get rid of dirt and grime, but it is ineffective when it comes to the growth of bacteria and the growth of blue algae, therefore it will not help prevent the black marks on your roof or permanently clean the stains.
Power washing can also be very damaging to your roof and even cause damage, especially if you are using asphalt shingles. There are other roofing materials that are not designed to withstand certain water pressures or cleaning methods, so be sure to double-check before taking out the power washer.
The safest way to remove black stains from your roof is to seek help from a professional roofing company, such as RGB Construction.
Warning:
**Attempting to remove the black streaks on your roof with bleach may void the Manufacturer’s Warranty on your shingles.
Should I Remove The Black Streaks Myself?
Yes, you can certainly can remove the ugly streaks on your roof on your own. However, before talking about how to remove black streaks and algae from your roof, it is time for a PSA: You could inadvertently nullify your homeowner’s insurance policy or the warranty on your roof by using certain DIY remedies. Cleaning on its own will not affect the warranty on your roof. However, if you are grossly negligent with cleaning and algae removal, there will be consequences. What does it mean to be negligent? By using chemicals and materials that damage the rooftop. For example, bleach will remove the algae, but it could also cause damage to the roof. Lye is another example.
Be sure to review the Manufacturer’s Warranty on your roof, as well as any Workmanship Warranty that may also be attached. When it doubt, call in the professionals.
How to Remove Black Streaks From Your Roof
If you have noticed that the black marks on your roof have only just started to develop, there may be some DIY cleaning options you could try if you are willing to be patient and do not mind a day’s worth of scrubbing!
Warning:
**Attempting to remove the black streaks on your roof with some of the methods below may void the Manufacturer’s Warranty on your shingles.
That is why it is highly recommended that you call a professional roofing company to help you remove the black streaks instead, our technicians are certified and highly trained. Your warranty will remain intact, and your roof will be cleaner.
All that said, here are some common ways to remove ugly black marks from your roof.
1. Use A Cleaning Solution With Hypochlorite Or Copper Sulfate
The best way of correctly preventing and cleaning black marks from your roof is to target the blue algae with the correct cleaning solution. When you are using a cleaning solution for the gloeocapsa magma, it is always best to use water at a low pressure as this will help remove the black marks effectively while also preventing your roof from damage.
When it comes to the correct solution, cleaning products including ingredients such as hypochlorite and copper sulfate will help kill the nasty bacteria that are causing your roof to stain. This cleaning solution will immediately stop the growth of blue algae and also remove other debris like moss and lichen.
When using this solution, it is always best to not overwash your roof as you do not want to cause damage. The rain can easily wash away any remaining product and therefore you will not need to waste water.
2. Regular Bleach
Using regular kitchen bleach can also be very effective on the blue algae growing on your roof. When using regular bleach it is always best to mix the product with 50% water. The bleach does not need to be full strength in order to kill the bacteria causing the black marks on your roof and if you spray the bleach at full force, depending on your roofing material, you may experience damage. (may void the Manufacturer’s Warranty)
3. Invest In Special Products
Black marks on your roof are extremely common across the United States and therefore there are special products on the market that you can buy designed specifically to target blue algae while protecting your roof.
Why You Should Remove Black Streaks From Your Roof
If you are wanting to protect the longevity of your roof, we would recommend that you make sure to remove the gloeocapsa magma on your roof by either using products or hiring a professional roofing company. When spread and growing on your roof for long periods of time gloeocapsa magma bacteria can cause damage to your roofing material. The gloeocapsa magma bacteria can trap moisture and cause wood rot, causing your roof to slowly decay.
Preventing Black Marks On Your Roof Can Increase The Longevity Of Your Roof
Even though the black marks on your roof look pretty harmless, the bacteria causing those black marks can cause serious damage to your roof’s material if leftover time. The best way to care for your roof and prevent further damage is to keep on top of cleaning the gloeocapsa magma bacteria. Because DIYing black streak removal may void the Manufacturer’s Warranty on your shingles, it is recommended that you call in a professional service. At RGB Construction, our dependable team has the knowledge and experience you need to get your roof in tip-top shape. We clean gutters, repair damage, and much more. Plus, if we spot any additional trouble areas, we will let you know and provide solutions. Call us today to schedule your free consultation or an appointment at 856-264-9093.
