Gainesville’s humid, warm climate makes asphalt shingle roofs susceptible to roof algae. This is a term that refers to a large number of photosynthetic organisms. They are common in nature, and they thrive in wet areas. They can be quite fine in their natural environment, but you don’t want them growing on your roof. Learn how to remove roof algae and why it is important.
What is Roof Algae?
It’s not uncommon to see dark-colored or black algae stains on residential asphalt roofs. These streaks can appear as either long or short, making your roof appear older than it actually is. This roof algae can grow for a variety of reasons. Roof algal growth is often caused by clogged gutters in Gainesville. Additionally, algae can grow easily in extreme sunlight and frequent rains.
What is the best way to get rid of roof algae?
Roof algae can have different effects on roofs. Algae can have profound or subtle effects on your roof’s health depending on its color. Excessive heating will cause algae damage to shingles that are darker in color. These are the top reasons to get rid of roof algae.
Increase the appearance and life expectancy of your roof
Recalling high school science class, darker-colored material absorbs more heat. This is why you should wear a white shirt on hot days vs. a dark one. Algae can grow on lighter-colored roof shingles, causing the roof’s surface temperature increase.
Heat can cause damage to the roof’s roof granules, which in turn reduces its strength and decreases its lifespan. Perhaps your roof is made from darker-colored shingles. Because the roof’s color is already less reflective, it could be more damaging than attractive.
A roof that has been contaminated by algae can often look older or more damaged than it really is. This is important if your goal is to sell or improve the curb appeal of your home.
Boost the energy efficiency of your home
A darker roof will absorb more of the sun’s infrared and solar energy. It will also increase your home’s cooling load in the summer months of Florida. Your attic is where the heating begins. This will cause your cooling unit to work twice as hard during particularly hot and sunny days.
You can reduce your energy costs and improve the appearance of your home by getting rid of roof algae
How do I get rid of roof algae?
If you are a DIYer, your roof can be cleaned with a standard garden hose and simple chlorine bleach water solution. Simply spray the solution onto your roof using a gentle spray. Let the solution sit for approximately 20-30 minutes before you rinse off the roof using a standard garden hose.
High-pressure washers should not be used to clean asphalt shingle roofs. They can damage the roof by removing granules. Granules, which give the shingles their water-repelling qualities, are an important part of the roof system.
Sometimes, however, it is impossible to simply clean your roof. It is best to hire a professional roofing contractor to replace the roof.
KCG Roofing and Carpentry, Gainesville, FL for Roof Replacement
KCG Roofing and Carpentry Residential Roofing can help you if your roof is showing signs of wear and tear. KCG Roofing and Carpentry Residential Roofing is a local contractor that can provide the expertise and knowledge you need to make the right decisions for your home. We use industry-best practices and high-quality roofing materials so that our customers have beautiful roofs that last.
Get in touch with us today to start your residential roof replacement.
This post was written by a roofing professional at KCG Roofing. KCG Roofing is a premier roofing contractor that does roof repair in Sarasota! KCG Roofing has the experience and expertise to replace or repair your roof with quality materials and excellent craftsmanship. All our roofs are backed by a 15-year leak-free guarantee, the highest in the industry. We have been family-owned and operated for over 40 years.
