If your roof has dark streaks running down it, you’re not alone. Drive through any neighborhood in Maryville, Knoxville or Farragut and you’ll see them everywhere. The good news: it’s not dirt, it’s not mold from a leak, and it can be cleaned.
It’s algae
Those streaks are an algae called Gloeocapsa magma. It travels on the wind, lands on your shingles and feeds on the limestone filler that’s in most asphalt shingles. Our humid East Tennessee weather and all the shade from big trees make it spread fast, usually starting on the north facing side.
Is it hurting my roof?
Over time, yes. Algae and moss hold moisture on the roof, moss can lift shingle edges, and lichen roots into the surface. It also makes a nice house look a lot older, which matters if you’re ever selling.
Never pressure wash shingles
High pressure blasts off the granules that protect your shingles and can shorten the life of the roof. The right way is a low pressure soft wash, which is what shingle makers and the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association point to.
How we clean it
- Protect your plants and landscaping
- Apply a cleaning solution with low pressure to kill the algae, moss and lichen
- Rinse gutters, siding and plants
- Let the rain finish off any heavy moss over the next few weeks
Learn more about our roof soft washing, or call 865-268-9589 for a free estimate.
Want your place looking like this?
Free estimates from a local, licensed and insured crew in Maryville, Knoxville and all of Blount and Knox County.