Streaks On Roof Shingles

Roof shingles aren t exactly cheap and considering the amount of work that goes into replacing a roof paying a high amount for manual labor is also to be expected.

Streaks on roof shingles.

Here s what they are and what to do about them. It is most widespread in the eastern united states and is commonly found on roofs with northern exposure. If you live in a humid area of the country you ve probably seen unsightly dark streaks on asphalt shingle roofs. Black streaks on shingled roofs are a common though mysterious sight.

Shingle manufacturers are now making an algae resistant shingle they resist algae from growing but are not fool proof. When that happens it is generally caused by mildew algae mold or dirt stains. The black streaks running down roofs are actually a hardy algae called gloeocapsa magma. Although these dark spots and ugly black streaks on your roof may look like dirt mildew soot or mold what they really are is algae.

The most common type is known as gloeocapsa magma also known as blue green algae. Over time this algae accumulates developing a black outer coating which causes stains on roof shingles. This algae growth usually begins as small spots and then eventually becomes visible streaks. The algae feed off of the limestone within the roof shingles.

While the streaks do not cause a great deal of damage they can cause the shingle to age prematurely. It is not uncommon for roof shingles to turn black over time. While not immediately damaging they can prematurely age shingles. As the blue green algae.

Roof shingles are exposed to a lot of wear and tear as extreme heat sun wind and precipitation come into contact with them. The most common culprit is actually a blue green algae known as gloeocapsa magma that is spread by airborne spores. Though often attributed to an accumulation of dirt defective shingles mold or mildew. Using shingles that have been treated with algicide keeps the growth at bay for about 10 years thus the 10 year algae warranty.

We have had several calls about these ar shingles showing black and green streaks. If you want to spend less on your roof you need to think of it as an investment. The streaks are caused by a type of algae known as gloeocapsa magma. These black streaks are.