Most homes with these black streaks on its roof face the North, and because it gets little sunlight, this side of the roof is more vulnerable to algae growth.
Many homeowners are unaware of what these black streaks even are, as they're fairly new to our area. It's simply an algae that feeds on the limestone filler that is used in asphalt shingles. With the moisture and humidity increasing over the past few years, this particular type of algae has migrated from the Gulf States and has spread throughout most of the Northeast and Mid Atlantic.
Some pressure washing companies or roof cleaners use surface cleaners, or apply a chemical and go over it with light pressure. Surface cleaners and pressure washers can cause damage, even at little pressure, as they remove those little granules that are on your shingles. We contacted both GAF and Owens Corning, which are the major roof shingles manufacturers, and they clearly state to NEVER use a pressure washer or surface cleaner. Instead they recommend using a sodium hypochlorite based cleaner and a roof pump, which is what we strictly adhere to.
This process is also the method used by the Roof Cleaning Institute of America, which we are proudly a part of, and unlike a pressure washer or surface cleaner, this method keeps the algae from reappearing for typically 4-6 years.
Industry Insight: Some companies claim to be environmentally friendly, however I feel that such a term doesn't apply to pressure washing or roof cleaning. It would be nice to say that we are, but the truth is we're killing mold, algae and mildew. In order to do that, and make it last for awhile, it's impossible to achieve those results while also using the term environmentally friendly.
Premier Power Wash & Roof Cleaning uses the proper method to safely remove the algae from your shingles and make your roof look new again. Call (610) 220-3590 for a FREE estimate.
"Our goal is to provide exceptional service at a reasonable price." - Mike Trafficante (owner)
