|
Specifics: What's Growing On Your Roof?
Addressing The "Growing" Problems On Roofs Caused By Algae, Lichen, Fungus, and Moss
|
|
Fact:
|
Algae, or Gloeocapsa Magma, can spread... from one infested roof to another via the release of airborne spores. As more homes are built closer together, this hardy algae has been able to spread rapidly.
|
|
Fact:
|
Algae is well adapted to extreme conditions... heat, long dry spells, UV rays, heavy rain, intense cold, thick snow or high winds doesn't deter it.
|
|
Fact:
|
The dark color of Algae is a pigmented protective sheath... that encapsulates each cell to protect it from UV rays
|
|
Fact:
|
Dew is the dominant source of water for algae and is the "agent" best suited for the release of the copper in Algae Resistant shingles. Rainwater, although effective, runs off a roof too quickly to provide significant leaching of copper. Dew is also present more days than rain.
|
|
Fact:
|
Algae can go for long periods of time without water... It is unaffected by heat or downpours and is dormant in winter. Algae secretes a material that adheres them firmly to the shingle surface.
|
|
F.A.Q.'s Algae Fungus Moss Lichen
|
|
What Does it Look Like?
|
Dark/black or green stains or streaks on roof...
Also called "Blue-Green Algae" (Cyanobacteria) and
"Gloeocapsa Magma"
|
Green, connecting colonies…
Includes mold & mildew
|
Green, spongy clumps…
can be random growths.
|
Orange, White
or Yellowish spots… in a star burst shape
|
|
What's Needed for Growth?
|
Moisture, inorganic food sources (asphalt fillers), airborne spores, proper temperature
|
Moisture, organic food sources (soil), spores,
proper temperature - 40 F to 100F.
|
|
Where Does it Grow?
|
Nationwide; 80% +/-. Mostly SE, coastal, Pacific NW. High humidity. See map.
|
High humidity, heavy shade, any exposure.
Heavy and/or low tree coverage aids growth.
|
|
Typical Roof Exposure?
|
Mainly North facing, but can occur on all exposures.
|
Any exposure. Heavy and/or low tree coverage aids growth.
|
|
Impact on Roof?
|
Premature detioration and Aesthetics
|
Aesthetics, poor drainage, slippery, potential to
lift shingles, possible premature deterioration.
|
|
Are Algae Resistant Shingles Effective?
|
Yes…
|
No, may inhibit growth in early stages only,
will not prevent growth.
|
|
How Do You Get Rid Of It??
|
|
|
|
|
|
