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Although roof algae may seem like a minor aesthetic issue, in fact, it seriously compromises the lifespan of your roof and the overall condition of your house. In humid areas like Atlanta, the environment is quite ideal for algae development. At ATL Roofing and Restoration, we have personally witnessed the harm that roof algae can inflict and the preventability of this issue with proper education and care. We will go over what roof algae is, why it’s dangerous, why it’s so common in Atlanta, and—most importantly—how you could prevent and treat it successfully in this complete guide.
Gloeocapsa magma is the main blue-green bacteria causing roof algae. This bacterium, despite its name, looks black or dark brown because of its protective outer layer. Usually showing up as ugly streaks down your shingles, it may start as a small spot but, if handled, it may quickly cover your whole roof.
Found on most Southeastern U.S. roofs, including Atlanta, Gloeocapsa magma is the most often occurring form. It consumes the limestone filler included in asphalt shingles.
Although technically different from algae, moss and lichen sometimes coexist with algae and help to degrade roofs by holding moisture and excavating shingles.
For a good part of the year, Atlanta has a warm and humid climate. Algae find a home in these conditions. Furthermore, shaded sections of your roof by trees or surrounding buildings hold moisture longer, therefore promoting the growth of algae.
The existence of algae on your roof goes beyond mere aesthetic annoyance. The following are the main causes of concern regarding a threat to your house:
Algae progressively weaken asphalt shingles by feeding on their limestone filling. This degradation over time might shorten the lifetime of your roofing system and cause early replacement. Algae breaks down the shingles, making them more brittle and prone to curling, cracking, or whole coming off.
Dark streaks on algae-covered roofs help them to absorb more solar heat, therefore lowering cooling costs. Keeping your house cool throughout the hot Atlanta summers becomes more difficult as this heat moves into your attic and then into your house. That yields More air conditioning use causes higher utility costs.
Algae growth in damp surroundings can help mildew and mould develop. Eventually, these will find their way into your attic and ventilation system, perhaps causing allergies, respiratory problems, and other health concerns for your family and you.
Atlanta’s warm temperatures and heavy humidity most of the year are perfect for algae to flourish. Particularly in shady places, roofs remain moist long enough to encourage algal development following regular rain showers.
Big trees and overhanging limbs cover rooftops, therefore obscuring sunshine and letting moisture stay there. Algae, moss, and lichen find an ideal habitat in this wetness.
The most often utilised roofing material in Atlanta homes is asphalt shingles. These shingles are particularly at risk of damage as the limestone filler they use is exactly what Gloeocapsa magma consumes.
Maintaining the freedom of your roof from algae depends mostly on prevention. Right actions and regular maintenance will help you prevent the expensive damage caused by algae infestations.
At least once a year, have experts go over your roof. Comprehensive roof inspections are what ATL Roofing and Restoration offers to find early indicators of algae or other problems before they become major concerns.
A well-ventilated roof lets moisture leave more readily, therefore lowering the possibility of algae growth. To stop water gathering, check the ventilation system in your attic and ensure gutters and downspouts are clear and in good operating order.
Cut back tree branches that span your roof. This not only lessens the shadow and lets sunlight dry your roof more efficiently but also restricts the trash that might land on it and hold moisture.
If you want a new roof or are upgrading your current one, think about utilising shingles resistant to algae. Copper or zinc grains incorporated with these tiles naturally stop algae growth.
Sometimes, homemade cleaning solutions cause more damage than benefit. Professional, environmentally friendly cleaning services available at ATL Roofing and Restoration safely remove algae without compromising your roof or voiding your warranty.
Using low-pressure water combined with certain treatments, soft washing kills algae. Since this is quite successful and mild for shingles, this is the advised approach.
High-pressure water can remove protective granules from shingles, therefore causing early roof degradation and possible warranty problems even if it may seem like a simple cure.
Most hardware stores carry roof-cleaning products, but always closely read the label. Sometimes a diluted bleach solution—one part bleach to three parts water—is used, but incorrect application can harm siding, landscaping, and the roof. First, test a tiny area always; avoid scrubbing.
Expert cleaners, such as those at ATL Roofing and Restoration, remove algae using industry-approved cleaning products and tried mild washing methods, so maintain the integrity of your roof.
Atlanta’s typical cost to remove roof algae is between $300 and $600. Roof size, condition, and slope all have a bearing on the precise cost.
Let roof algae not compromise the safety, energy economy, or architectural beauty of your house. Preventive treatment is vital in Atlanta’s humid environment. ATL Roofing and Restoration can assist you whether your needs call for a one-time cleaning or you wish to investigate long-term algae avoidance strategies.
Modern methods are used by our knowledgeable staff to preserve your investment and maintain the year-round outstanding appearance of your roof. Get in touch now to arrange your free inspection and see why Atlanta homeowners choose ATL Roofing and Restoration for professional roof algae prevention and removal.
