Roof Cleaning

Before we can schedule a soft wash we need to make sure there is no extensive damage to the roof material and structure.

Granule Loss and Shingle Deterioration

First, we check for the presence of shingle cupping, curling or granule loss. These issues may be associated with age or weather, but is sometimes caused by the growth of organisms such as algae, moss, mildew or mold. 

Another contributing factor to shingle damage could be the use of improper power washing. The force of water from traditional pressure or power washing can do substantial harm to the shingles. This makes them more prone to blow off in their weakened state. 

What’s worse is if moisture has taken hold on your roof from moss and debris buildup. Loose shingles will allow water to leak through to the underlayment and could lead to structural damage. The wooden roof deck will begin to rot and decay from the moisture over time, leading to costly repairs and replacements. 

Roof cleaning requires a specialized soft washing technique. Not only does this method prevent damage by applying lower water pressure, it treats the mold and bacteria on the surface with a strong, biodegradable cleaning solution. This provides a deeper, safer clean to your roof.

Dark Streaks or Stains

The root cause for this occurrence is a blue-green algae called gloeocapsa magma, a form of cyanobacteria that typically thrives in warm and humid climates. They feed off of the granules of the shingles. 

Causes: Gloeocapsa magma thrives in the shade, often caused by the “canopy effect” which is when trees begin encroaching over the house, blocking direct sunlight. This prevents the shingles from drying out properly after rain or snowfall, creating a moist environment for bacteria to grow. 

Wind and animals can spread the bacteria, growing from a dot to a streak over time. The particles can be air-borne, which can cause the bacteria to travel from one roof to another.  It’s not unusual to see these stains occur on multiple houses in the same neighborhood due to the close proximity.

Impact: Dark stains, streaks and overall discoloration of the roof’s surface will occur. If left untreated it spreads to the entire surface of the roof, while the stains begin to darken and become more noticeable.  

The composition of certain roof shingles and their propensity for trapping heat and moisture makes them an ideal environment for the bacteria to live and reproduce. 

Gloeocapsa magma is not only unsightly, but over time can lead to premature aging of your roof and deterioration of the shingles. This may result in shingle rot or blow-off and costly roof repairs.

Algae particles give off airborne toxins that may be harmful when inhaled and have negative health effects, especially for individuals prone to allergy flare-ups.

Green Moss

If you start to notice patches of green, fuzzy matter growing on your shingles, then you likely have a moss problem. Unlike blue-green algae, moss is a plant and can do serious damage to your shingles.

Causes: Similar to organic bacteria, moss thrives in shaded, damp environments. Moss is a non-vascular plant that absorbs water through its leaves instead of roots. Its seeds or spores, become air-borne and can spread rapidly. Once the spores attach to the roof, they gather in the space between the shingles and grow into a thick spongy moss.

Impact: The danger of moss lies in its ability to retain moisture. When water settles on a clean roof, it can air dry without lingering for too long. When moss grows abundantly, it acts as a heavy blanket on top of your roof that holds the water in place. As it grows thicker, it lifts and loosens the shingles, allowing water to leak through. This extra moisture can lead to mold, rot, and eventually, the decay of the roof’s framing.

Lichen

Lichen is not a plant. It occurs as the result of a symbiotic relationship between algae or cyanobacteria (Gloeocapsa magma) and fungi (often caused by organic matter and fallen debris).

Causes: Where plant organisms like moss takes its energy from sunlight, lichen uses algae as its food source. It generally develops on roofs are prone to Gloeocapsa magma growth.

Impact: Lichen grows slowly but the longer its left to fester, the more invasive it becomes. Like moss, it can strip away protective oils on shingles, making them vulnerable to sun damage and erosion. The longer it’s left untreated, the more likely it is to cause permanent damage and stains on your roof.

Debris buildup

Overhanging branches introduce leaves, sticks and other debris that allows for the retention of moisture. This damp environment becomes a breeding ground for bacteria growth.