FAQ: What Are the Black Stains That Grow on Roof & Siding?

Aug 28, 2014

When was the last time you gave your roof in Woodbridge a good look? Have you ever wondered what does black streaks on your roof are? We’re sure that you have a lot of questions regarding those stains on your roof. That is why roofing professionals Valiant Home Remodelers is providing answers to your queries on roofing damage.

Q: What are these black streaks on my roof? The shingles are less than 10 years old, and there are no trees anywhere near the roof.

A: Those black stains are actually blue-green algae called Gloeocapsa magma that feed on the limestone in your shingles. As these algae accumulate, they develop into a dark, hardened outer coating. This coating is what you see as black stains.

Q: How does a roof get algae?

A: Algae can spread through the air via airborne spores. If a house in your neighborhood has these black stains, those spores could eventually find its way to your roof.

Q: How does it grow?

A: Like most kinds of algae, it requires the right moisture and temperatures to grow. Your roof and siding in Woodbridge NJ could be an ideal place, especially in parts that don’t get too much sunlight.

Q: What solutions do I have?

A: You can opt to install algae-resistant shingles or try to clean the roof.

Q: What shouldn’t I do?

A: Do not power wash the shingles; doing so could extricate the granules and diminish their integrity. This could cause more harm than good, leading to more damage and more expenses.

Q: What other parts of the home could get affected?

A: Even your Woodbridge NJ siding could be threatened by these pesky algae if the conditions are right. Regular cleaning could be a viable option in this situation.

If you have any more your questions or if you need assistance, you can contact Valiant Home Remodeling.

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