Roof Stains: What They Are and How to Get Rid of Them
Roof stains are something that several homeowners may encounter. These unsightly discolorations can detract from the overall beauty of your home and also cause potential damage if left untreated. Understanding what causes roof stains and how to identify them properly is key to knowing when they need to be addressed and how best to remove them.
What Causes Roof Stains?
The most common culprits of roof staining are algae, moss and lichen.
- Algae is a type of plant-like growth that produces an orange or black discoloration on shingles due to its photosynthetic activity on the surface.
- Moss tends to grow in damp climates where there isn’t much sun exposure. It appears as dark green patches with a fuzzy texture on roofs with poor ventilation or too much shade coverage from trees or other vegetation nearby.
- Lichen looks like small crusty circles often found near tree lines. It has both algae and fungi components that form together into bright yellowish-green spots on asphalt shingles over time due to its unique ability for long-term survival without sunlight exposure.
How to Identify Roof Stains
If you notice any strange colored spots forming along the sides of your home’s exterior walls or across the rooftop itself, then this could be an indication that you have some kind of staining issue, such as algae, moss or lichen growths.
To confirm this suspicion further, use binoculars (or take photos) while standing at ground level so that you can get a better look at what exactly these marks resemble. They can be stringy clumps similar in appearance to seaweed (algae), round clusters resembling small heads sprouting up outwards (moss) or circular patterns looking like lily pads overlapping one another (lichen).
How to Remove Roof Stains
The process for removing different kinds of roof stains depends on which type has developed as each requires slightly different methods to be eradicated:
- Pressure Washing – For tougher stains, the use of a pressure washer may be necessary to remove them effectively. However, it is important that you do not point the nozzle directly at the roof’s surface as this could cause damage or even loosen shingles which can then lead to leaks. Instead, start from an angle and slowly move up in a circular motion until all discolorations have been eliminated.
- Chemical Treatments – If power washing isn’t successful, then consider using chemical treatments such as chlorine bleach or oxygenated solutions specifically designed for killing moss, algae and lichen growth on roofs. Be careful not to mix different chemicals. Simply follow instructions on product labels and safety warnings prior to handling these items.
Prevention Tips
With regular maintenance and preventative care, roof stains can be avoided. Here are some tips:
- Keep an eye out for trees that may provide too much shade coverage and cause moisture buildup.
- Ensure there are no cracks or gaps around vents and gutters where water can accumulate.
- Regularly inspect your roof for any signs of staining or discoloration to catch it early and address the issue quickly with a power washing session or chemical treatments, if necessary.
If you’re in need of a trusted roofing company to deal with roof stains, don’t hesitate to call Tango & Gatti. We can help identify the issue and recommend the best course of action for removal. With our experience and expertise, we’ll have your home looking like new again in no time. Call us at (330) 308-8213 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation.