Archive for the ‘Moss & Alge’ Category
Preventing Moss and Algae Growth on Your Roof
Preventing Moss and Algae Growth on Your Roof
Those dark gray steaks you sometimes see on asphalt shingle roofs are signs of algae growth on the roof. Algae growth can occur on an asphalt shingle roof anywhere in the country, but it is more common in hot, humid environments. The algae feeds on materials used in the manufacturing of the shingles and tends to grow better in a moist environment which explains why it only grows on one side of some roofs. If the other side gets plenty of sunlight, it may be too dry for the algae to grow.
Moss will also grow on a roof if it is sufficiently shady and moist. Moss and algae damage will shorten the lifespan of the roof. It retains moisture which causes the roof to fail sooner than it should. It is possible to remove algae and moss from an asphalt shingle roof, but it requires scrubbing the roof with chemicals and the whole process can cause more harm than good.
A better way to control moss and algae on an asphalt shingle roof is to install zinc strips. These are installed by nailing them to the roof at the ridge. The installed zinc strip runs the length of the ridge and when it rains, small amounts of zinc are carried down the roof with the rainwater runoff. This small amount of zinc is sufficient to prevent new growth of algae and moss.
To prevent moss and algae growth on your roof, contact a local roofing contractor about having zinc strips installed on your roof.
Jasper Contractors has offices in Atlanta, Baton Rouge, Chicago, Cincinnati, Denver, New Orleans, Phoenix and Salt Lake City.
Algae
Algae
Algae formation can occur on any roof and is not limited to high humidity areas. Algae can be carried by animals and birds, and deposited on your home’s roof. Algae can also occur when leaves fall and stay on the roof for periods of time.
Algae formation on roofs is problematic because it can actually wear down the barrier protection on the roof. This will make the roof less water resistant and damage the internal structure of the shingle, making it more likely to blow off during a storm. Left untreated, algae, moss and lichen formation on a roof can substantially shorten the roof life and cause serious damage to the inside of the home. Algae roof stains will also discolor roofs, making them unsightly and unattractive. Signs of algae are typically green or black stains that appear to permeate the roofing shingles.
Homeowners may treat algae stains temporarily by having their roofs washed with a special solution. It is not recommended to power wash your roof, as this will actually remove the granules on the shingle, allowing hail to damage the roof during a storm and exposing the shingles to the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays.
For a permanent solution, homeowners may decide to install algae resistant roofing shingles. These shingles have copper or zinc built into the sand granules on the shingles. The copper or zinc stops algae from forming, keeping roofs looking as attractive as they did the day they were installed. Additionally, as the shingles become wet (for example, during a rain storm) the minerals in the granules become activated protecting the entire roof from algae.
Jasper Contractors has offices in Atlanta, Baton Rouge, Chicago, Cincinnati, Colorado Springs, Denver, New Orleans, Phoenix and Salt Lake City.
Asphalt Shingle Roof Enemies
Asphalt Shingle Roof Enemies
Understanding the factors that affect the durability and performance of your roof can help your roof provide long lasting protection for your home and family. Heat causes asphalt shingle roofs to deteriorate faster. This is especially true when there is a large difference between daytime highs and nighttime lows. Large temperature swings cause thermal shock that shortens the lifespan of the roof.
The sun’s UV rays would quickly destroy an asphalt shingle if the shingle lacked the coating of ceramic granules. These granules no only add color and texture, but more importantly protect the shingle from UV ray damage. Hail damaged shingles often look OK at first, but soon fail because the hail dislodged too many ceramic granules.
Water or moisture from any source will damage your roof. It can be rainwater that penetrates the shingles or excessive condensation on the underside of the roof deck. Whatever the source, moisture can cause the roof deck to rot and can lead to mold and mildew.
Moss and algae that form on your roof are detrimental because they hold moisture. The same is true for leaves, dirt, and other debris. Anything that holds moisture can lead to rot, decay, mold, and mildew.
Wind can damage your roof by lifting up shingles and allowing water to penetrate under the shingle. High winds can tear off shingles or cause broken and torn shingles.
Snow and ice can cause ice dams that harm your asphalt shingle roof. These form when snow over the warmer area of the roof melts, then freezes as ice at the edges of the roof creating an ice dam. Water backs up behind the ice dam and seeps under the shingles.
For more information or help with any of these roofing concerns, call a reputable Cincinnati roofing contractor.
Controlling Moss and Algae On Your Roof
Controlling Moss and Algae On Your Roof
Many homes throughout the country struggle with moss and algae growth on their roof. It can happen to any roof, but it is most common on roofs with northern exposures and those shaded by trees or other obstructions.
Moss and algae is more than just a cosmetic problem, especially for asphalt shingle roofs. Moss and algae hold moisture, which over time can severely damage an asphalt shingle roof. It can cause wood rot and freeze damage.
The challenge in removing moss and algae from your roof is to do it without causing more harm than good. Moss can be removed by hand or by carefully using a bristle brush. However, you have to be very careful not to knock any shingles loose or to brush off too many ceramic granules. If the shingles are too brittle to withstand the cleaning process, it’s time to think about a new roof instead of cleaning the old one.
Algae can often be removed using oxygen bleach. Do not use chlorine bleach – it can be very harmful to plants. Oxygen bleach is available at home improvement stores. Follow the instructions for mixing it with water, and apply it carefully to the roof. You may need to lightly scrub with a soft brush for best results. Again, be careful not to damage any shingles or remove too many ceramic granules. Rinse off the oxygen bleach solution after 15 or 20 minutes.
You can prevent moss and algae from forming by installing copper or zinc strips along the upper edges of the roof. Rain will wash small amounts of zinc or copper onto the roof which will prevent moss and algae from forming.
What Causes Black Streaks on Your Roof?
What Causes Black Streaks on Your Roof?
You may have noticed that in certain areas of your roof, you have black or darker streaks. Most commonly, these black streaks are seen on the north side, and are especially noticeable on lighter colored shingled roofs.
Unfortunately, these black streaks are not just dirt that has shown up. It is actually algae growth which shows up most commonly in the shadiest areas of the roof. Roofs that do not receive direct sunlight, are in the shade quite a bit, or are otherwise covered naturally retain a higher level of moisture, causing the algae to grow. Algae is seen most commonly on lighter colored shingles, but actually can and does appear on all types of shingles.
Algae will not cause permanent damage to the roof, but is an eyesore. Algae appearance is actually more a symptom of an underlying issue (such as inadequate ventilation) that should be corrected. Algae is also slippery, making it a potential hazard for workers.
Algae generally cannot be removed easily. Too much friction when washing the shingle will cause permanent damage and remove the ceramic granules. Professional roofing companies have access to solutions that will help lighten the discoloration. This process will need to be repeated every few years to keep the algae at bay. Solutions should not be used on shingles unless specifically approved for shingle use. Additionally, never use a commercial power washer to wash the algae off. This will cause permanent damage to the shingle.
If you have discoloration on your roof, contact a local algae and moss roofing professional today for an evaluation and treatment.
Replace that Leaky Roof Before Mold Attacks!
Replace that Leaky Roof Before Mold Attacks!
Think you’re saving money by constantly repairing your roof leaks every time it rains, well think again. The money you are supposedly saving by repairing rather than replacing the roof may be a drop in the bucket compared to the time and cost involved in abating mold. Not to mention the health issues brought on by mold.
Molds are everywhere, but when the right factors are in place in a house or building, mainly excessive moisture, they can grow at excessive levels. This can lead to adverse health issues for humans. Infants, young children, allergy-prone adults, and the elderly are at an especially increased health risk.
According to recent studies, the cost of removing mold from the ducts and attic of a house runs from about $2,000 to $6,000. If structural damage has occurred, such as ruined wall board, wall coverings, and air conditioning ducts, repair costs could be as much as $10,000 to $30,000 or more. Then add on the cost of a new roof. Then add on the cost of resolving and/or dealing with the health issues that most surely will be involved.
Don’t just assume that your homeowner’s policy will cover the cost of mold remediation and damage repair. Generally, the policy will probably not cover mold, and if it does, coverage could be limited to a fixed amount.
So, if you have a continuing leaky roof problem, or have recently encountered a significant water damage situation, seriously consider replacing that old roof. Call a licensed roofing contractor for an inspection and replacement estimate. You will probably save money and protect your health by purchasing a new roof.
Preventing/Ridding Moss Roof Growth
Preventing/Ridding Moss Roof Growth
Moss can form on the roof due to many reasons. Even though moss mainly forms in wet seasons, there are a number of factors that can lead to its growth even in warm climates. Moss can substantially damage most types of roofs. There are many ways to prevent the growth of moss on the roof. Trees and vines that hang over the roof can prevent it from drying quickly and completely, thus encouraging the formation of moss. Regularly trim trees and vines that keep any part of the roof in the shade for long periods of time. Trim the vegetation just enough so that there is some light and enough movement of air on the roof. Any material that holds moisture such as leaves, twigs and pine needles will also encourage the growth of moss. Therefore, clear the roof regularly of any leaves or debris. Make sure there is enough ventilation to allow movement of air on the inside of the roof. This will help the roof dry out faster and prevent the moisture from forming for any long periods of time. A zinc or copper strip placed under the edge of the ridge cap will release chemicals in small amounts that will prevent or stop the growth of moss as well as algae. It is important to use these very carefully as they can be toxic in large quantities.
If the moss or algae has already formed, there are some ways to get rid of it. High pressure water spray may get rid of the moss, but it has the potential to damage and loosen shingles or siding. Chemicals containing sulfur and iron can be used to kill moss. However, these chemicals can be toxic and potentially harmful to the plant and animal life. Diluted solution of bleach mixed with some detergent can also be applied to get rid of moss from the roof.
The best practice for your roof is to prevent creating conditions where moss & algae growth strive. If left unattended, the moss & algae damage to your roof can prove to be extensive. While you may be able to get rid of the moss yourself, it is recommended that you hire a professional roofing contractor to remove the moss/algae.
Algae Resistant Roof Shingles
Algae Resistant Roof Shingles
Many homeowners are burdened by the presence of algae on the roof that causes unsightly discoloration. Algae is generally found on roofs of homes in the area of high humidity. Algae is also carried to roof tops by wind, birds and squirrels. The main ingredient in the algae resistant roof shingles is copper. Copper stops the algae from latching onto your roof. The copper based shingles can be purchased, but the copper and its presence will be felt as the algae will find it uncomfortable to survive on the roof surface. The shingles made of copper or zinc get more activated after rain and the algae fighting components spread across the roof surface. Even though rain promotes moisture on the roof, with such algae resistant roof shingles the growth of algae will be minimal.
Presently, many roof shingle manufacturing companies offer algae resistant shingles that can be installed by a professional roofing contractor. These shingles come in a variety of different colors that allow you to choose to the appropriate one for your home. These shingles are slightly costlier than the regular shingles but will be worth the investment as it would prevent the moss and algae damage to your roof. Most of the algae resistant roof shingle manufacturers provide warranties on the resistance of algae.
Identifying a professional roofing contractor for installing your choice of algae resistant roof shingles is very critical. They must know the right quality of algae resistant shingles to be used and get the work done within the expected timeframe. Knowing that your roof is protected from algae will provide a great peace of mind and allow your home to remain free from fungus.
Removing Roof Moss
Removing Roof Moss
When a tree that is seasonal over hangs a roof, then the leaves will eventually fall off from the tree onto the roof. These fallen leaves will ultimately provide a base for moss to root in. Moss grows on shaded surfaces, on moist areas and during wet climates. Roof moss is pretty common in the Pacific Northwest. The moss root system penetrates shingles and promotes rotting. If you have a cedar shake roof, it is advised to clean the roof annually.
Moss removal requires patience and must be handled with great care. The process of removing moss from a roof is complicated and it requires taking adequate precautions. The process for removing moss from the roof is explained below:
• First, start removing the debris off the roof and also from the gutters. By removing the debris, it not only clears the area but also removes the source of moss growth.
• After removing the debris, clean the roof with warm water and detergent. This will soften the moss and also kill some of the clusters.
• Now use a hard bristle brush with a long handle to scrub the roof. This will rip the moss with the roots. Ensure to scrub the area from top to bottom and not the other way, as it may spoil the roof material.
• If moss continues to be a problem use a stronger moss killer that is available at most home improvement stores.
• On completion of the process, inspect the roof and ensure that all the moss has been removed.
Moss and algae damage can create a more complex roof problem should it go on without attention. The moisture that moss and algae hold can rot out a roofing system in very little time. If you are not comfortable with being on the roof or cleaning the roof yourself, please contact a professional roofing contractor that is qualified to do the job correctly.
Ridding Your Roof Of Moss and Algae
Ridding Your Roof Of Moss and Algae
Anyone with the notion that moss cannot do damage to your roof doesn’t really know what they are in for. Moss is a living organism and like all other living things it also eats. Worse still, it feeds on the moisture retention of your roof. And if you still don’t believe it, trying pulling some off your roof and don’t be surprised to see the hole beneath it where it has been thriving. Getting rid of moss is a simple process and can be done with a couple of tools and moss cleaning products. Roof moss and algae damage can eventually lead to the roofing structure being compromised.
Try staying away from caustic substances like bleach, TSP or chlorine-based products because no doubt these will clear your roof off moss, but don’t be surprised if it wipes off your roof too. These strong chemicals tend to leave stains on the tiles and roof shingles and ruthlessly dry out the roofing material as well, leading to cracks that can make your roof prone to wind or water damage. Also these chemicals eat up your shrubs, plants or sections of your lawn while they flow off the roof. Instead opt for products that are eco-friendly and at the same time serve the purpose – cleaning out just the moss. There are high-quality products devised to clean the steepest pitched roof while attacking the moss right from the roots. Also choose a good environmentally safe, roof washing product so that you save your yard and at the same time don’t end up staining your roof.
A great way to apply roof cleaners to the roof moss is through a garden style pump sprayer. A scrubbing brush that is medium bristled should do the trick of getting off the moss. The idea is to brush away the moss with the roof cleaning product when it is wet so that it gets cleaned off right from the roots as opposed to trying to brush out the moss when dry, which would only clear out the flower of the moss. If you’ve tried this before, then you know it’s only a matter of time before the moss builds up again. After cleaning out the moss, rinse your roof thoroughly with water and do another coating of the roof cleaner letting it stay on the roof. This way you are doubly sure of preventing re-formation of the moss.
