Dark Streaks On Roof

The algae feed on the limestone in shingles.

Dark streaks on roof. The black streaks running down roofs are actually a hardy algae called gloeocapsa magma. You happen to walk back to your own home and see them too. 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. If you live in a humid area of the country you ve probably seen unsightly dark streaks on asphalt shingle roofs.

While doing little harm to your shingles the black streaks caused by the algae are unsightly. The streaks are caused by a type of algae known as gloeocapsa magma. This solution should be sprayed on the roof and left. Although it may look like mold or fungi these unsightly black streaks or smear like stains may indicate a type of roof algae known in technical terms as gloeocaspa magma.

These streaks look absolutely horrible and for your home s curb appeal they could bring down the property value of your home and those in your neighborhood. The most common type is known as gloeocapsa magma also known as blue green algae. Here s why algae grows on roofs. You re walking around your neighborhood and you see those weird marks on top of roofs usually darker in color and running down the shingles.

Black streaking on roofs is a common problem. Technically the black streaks on roofs are a form of algae known as gloeocapsa magma. Algae can be killed and the stains removed using chemical cleaners though they usually return over time. These black streaks are.

This blackish algae creeps it way across neighborhood roofs gradually turning your home s asphalt shingles an ugly dark brown or black. Over time this algae accumulates developing a black outer coating which causes stains on roof shingles. The black roof stains are caused by a form of algae that has been around for years typically found in the woods on the north side of trees or on exposed rocks. Roof shingles are exposed to a lot of wear and tear as extreme heat sun wind and precipitation come into contact with them.

It is not uncommon for roof shingles to turn black over time. How to lighten dark streaks or algae discoloration on an asphalt roof prior to applying the solution all ground vegetation directly under the roof should be covered. The algae will worsen and become more noticeable each year trapping moisture and causing premature shingle aging and granule loss. Solution should be a mixture of one gallon each of bleach and water 1 1.

When that happens it is generally caused by mildew algae mold or dirt stains. This algae growth usually begins as small spots and then eventually becomes visible streaks. Your stains are probably caused by the airborne spores of a blue green algae known as gloeocapsa magma which is often mistaken for mold or mildew. As the blue green algae accumulate they develop a dark hardened outer coating which results in the black stains you see.

While the streaks do not cause a great deal of damage they can cause the shingle to age prematurely.