Roof Eaves Have Blacj Streaks

Roof experts say black streaks are caused by an algae known as gloeocapsa magma.

Roof eaves have blacj streaks.

Though gloeocapsa magna has literally been around for centuries it didn t make its ugly presence known as a major problem in the u s. Detecting any problems that result in black streaks early can save you hundreds or thousands in roof repair costs. It s also known as blue green algae in the roofing business. Fully re shingling your roof is obviously an expensive route but copper or zinc strips are relatively affordable.

The algae will worsen and become more noticeable each year trapping moisture and causing. How can you prevent black streaks. If you re in need of a roof replacement and have noticed that black streaks are a persistent problem then consider asking your roofing contractor about this type of shingle. Areas of the country with low humidity have fewer instances of roof streaks while the problem is relatively common in the southeast where it s more humid and warm.

As the blue green algae accumulate they develop a dark hardened outer coating which results in the black stains you see. The shingles are manufactured with a mix of copper granules which as you ll recall the algae despise. Not only do professionals have power wash tools to make cleaning effective and safe for your shingles but they will also know what chemical solutions to use. There are two options when it comes to keeping a shingle roof black streak free install algae resistant shingles or a copper or zinc strips.

If you have an older house or at least an older roof you probably noticed some black streaks over time or noticed them on more visible roofs around you. The black streaks running down roofs are actually a hardy algae called gloeocapsa magma. Sometimes streaks are caused by mold or mildew growth on shingles but most of the time that s not the issue. You ve invariably wondered what causes this and suspected age or decay of the roof materials.

Although these dark spots and ugly black streaks on your roof may look like dirt mildew soot or mold what they really are is algae. Yes you can get rid of those black streaks on roof shingles but it will require a powerful chemical cleaning. The algae feed on the limestone in shingles. Most black streaks form on the northern slopes of roofs where it s darker and wetter ideal for algae growth.

Black streaks on roof. Black streaks are a common sight on asphalt roofs especially when you live in a humid climate like virginia. The first thing to note is that what you re seeing is the result of a cyanobacteria known as gloeocapsa magna. Airborne spores deposit it on your roof where it soaks up plenty of sunlight for photosynthesis and munches on the limestone filler in your shingles.

There are several reasons they can appear and it s best to get a professional inspection to find the exact cause. These black streaks can be caused by a couple of things though one of the two is far more common and fortunately more.