why is my roof ugly?

Step back and take a good look at your home from top to bottom. Does your roof look like it did when it was new? If your answer is no, if you see black stains and it looks as if something is growing on it, what do you do next? Is it time for a new roof?

Let’s review what could be on your roof.

Bacteria (Black Streaks)
The black stains commonly seen on roof surfaces is a cyanobacteria called Gloeocapsa Magma. Most refer to this as “roof algae,” but in fact it is a bacteria.

This roof bacteria is transported through the air which is why it has moved from humid southeastern states all through the midwest rapidly after the 1980s (prior to this time, roofing material was made of a material that didn’t provide as much “bacteria food”).

Once the organism lands on your roof it begins to feed on limestone granules, which is a filler found in today’s fiberglass shingles. The streaks form as the rain falls, pushing bacteria further down the roof each time. Before long the stains are pushed all the way down the roof, causing streaks, as well as spreading to the left and to the right. This spreading and feeding process is destructive to the roof and causes shingle decay, an inability for the roof to reflect UV-rays and significantly ruins curb appeal.

Moss
On highly shaded areas of the roof, particularly near tree cover, moss can begin to grow. Moss acts as a sponge, keeping the roof from being able to dry out. In addition, the moss clings to the roof which makes it dangerous to remove by hand since you run the risk of pulling up shingle granules along with it.

Lichen
This double fungus appears as white, yellow or even orange spots on the roof, and is the most aggressive of the three infestations. Because of its aggressive nature lichen will eat the roof to the point of causing pitting.

What To Do If You Spot These Organisms on Your Roof

Call Indy Exterior Clean we will come to your home and analyze the damage done to your roof. Chances are good that your roof only needs maintenance and doesn’t need to be replaced.

Many homeowners assume their roof needs to be replaced, and end up wasting thousands on a new roof. Usually, however, this is not the case at all. The best way to tell if your roof is in need of being replaced is to check your shingle warranty. Most shingles today have a 25-year to 40-year lifespan. If your shingles are still within this time period, save your money, your roof only needs cleaning.