No one likes a stain. And your home’s curb appeal is being tanked by all these dark streaks running down the shingles. What are these stains? Can shingles be washed? Do the stains damage the shingles?
The stains you are seeing comes from an algae called gloeocapsa magma, or more commonly referred to as black mold. This typically comes from dirt and plants from trees hanging over the house. The good news is the algae can be scrubbed off of the shingles. This needs to be done very gently as not to remove any granules. Power washing your shingles is highly discouraged. I also wouldn’t recommend scrubbing your shingles from on the roof. Shingles get surprisingly slippery when wet.
You don’t have to worry about the algae damaging your shingles, but they can be damaged inadvertently when the algae isn’t removed carefully. Arrington Roofing offers roof cleanings so you won’t have to worry about any potential shingle damage.
If you have a reoccurring stain issue, it may be a good idea to spend a little more and get algae resistant shingles next time you replace your roof. If your roof is still new, you can install zinc metal strips at the top of the roof near the ridge. Zinc helps prevent algae growth. When it rains the zinc from the metal bar is carried down the slope, covering the shingles.
Before taking any drastic measures, or trying to clean the roof yourself, call us to see how your shingles would hold up to a scrubbing.