Your roof is one of the key contributors of your home’s curb appeal so it’s understandable if you want to keep it in top shape for as long as possible. Unfortunately, if you happen to live in a humid area, you’ve likely experienced algae on your roofing system. This algae commonly affects tile, asphalt and wood roofing and can easily affect your home’s aesthetic appeal and property value in a negative manner.
Here, roofing contractor Northwest Construction discusses the ways you can remove or prevent algae from growing on your roofing system.
Thanks to the advancement of technology, roofing companies are able to make algae resistant shingles. These shingles often have granules mixed into the product to produce algae-fighting copper so make sure to specify this type of shingle when replacing your roof in an area susceptible to algae growth. The most notable algae resistant shingle there is is GAF’s shingles with the StainGuard™ Plus technology.
On the other hand, if replacing your roof with algae-resistant shingles isn’t an option, you can always opt to do chemical cleaning on the system. If you plan to do this, make sure you have the adequate safety gear such as gloves, goggles, slip-resistant shoes and a safety rope before you start. As for the cleaning formula, mix 1 quart of bleach with a gallon of water followed by ¼ cup of trisodium phosphate.
Once you’ve made your solution, pour the ingredients into a pump type garden sprayer, mix it well, and then start spraying. Once you’ve wet the roof down with the solution, let it remain on the surface for 15 minutes before rinsing it off with a hose. Alternatively, if you aren’t confident with doing this on your own, you can always call a roof repair professional to get the job done.
If you’re looking to prevent algae from growing on your roof again, you’ll be delighted to know that this is possible. Simply have a roofing expert install a copper or zinc strip coated sheet metal along each side of your roof below the ridge and you shouldn’t have to deal with blue-green algae again.
Do you have plans of installing new gutters on your home? Make your search for professionals easier by turning to Northwest Construction. When it comes to roofing and gutter installation, we are your leading service provider. Give us a call at (313) 277-7676 or fill out our contact form to talk to an expert. We serve homeowners in West Bloomfield, Dearborn, Taylor and other nearby areas in MI.