How To Remove Algae From Roof?

If you’re struggling with algae on your roof, and are struggling to come up with ways to get rid of it, then you’ve come to the right spot. Our blog on How to remove algae from roofs can help you reach a solution for your current situation. 

We, at Cajun Softwash, are a team of experts leading in Soft washing services for residential and commercial buildings in Louisiana. Keep reading to understand roof algae, the importance of soft-washing and the remedies used to get rid of algae. 

How To Recognize What Is What: Mould, Moss, Algae

Sometimes it can get confusing to differentiate between mould, moss, and algae. We’ve explained the appearances and the points to know the difference between moss and algae on roofs.

Roof Algae

If you have long dark black streaks on your roof, then it is most likely to be algae. Moss tends to grow upright, but algae always grows flat. Algae usually is transmitted to your roof by wind, birds, or vermin. It is common almost everywhere. 

Algae are made up of chlorophyll, which explains the dark green pigment which is commonly found in plants. But, algae aren’t plants because they are the organisms transported through the spores released by plants. 

There are parts on your roof that aren’t exposed to the maximum impact of UV rays and remain damp for longer than other spots on the roof after rainfall or morning dew. As algae continues to grow, it begins to appear like large black streaks on the shingles of your house. 

If you want to maintain the aesthetic appeal of your house, it is essential to remove roof algae. 

Moss

Moss is generally stretches of green fuzzy patches formed due to accumulation of moisture. It mostly grows underneath overhanging trees in shady places where morning dew and rainwater takes longer to dry. 

During drier seasons, moss tends to look more brownish than green. Moss will grow up and off the roof as well. Moss spores can be transported to roofs through wind, birds, squirrels, and other small animals. These spores can gather in nooks and cracks on your roof and eventually grow into patches of moss. 

It can eventually lead to damages on your roof’s asphalt shingles if left unrated or removed. 

Mould

Mould starts to form if algae is left untreated for too long. Algae thrives in moisture. If the roof is kept damp for long, rot will start to happen which as we all know leads to mould. It develops a slimy texture with a look similar to algae. 

We do not recommend using DIY techniques to remove large amounts of moss, mould, or algae as it wouldn’t be effective. However, if you have small patches of algae on your roof, you can try out one of the methods we’ve explained later below.

What is Roof Algae?

Sometimes roof algae can be confused with mould. Algae is, in general terms, a collection of tiny organisms that grow in sunlight. Sunlight is their main source of food, making it extremely common to grow extensively on roofs.

Roof Algae usually looks like mould because of its appearance being very similar to that of mould. It leaves mould-like stains and streaks across the walls and floors on your roof. People living in areas with humid summers generally face this issue. 

Algae may seem very dormant because it only affects the cosmetic aspect of your roof. But, if untreated, algae on roof shingles can lead to moisture retention on your ceilings and could damage the foundation of your house. So to answer your question, if algae on the roof is bad, then yes, it is. 

If you live in the South or in the Midwest, you might be facing issues with roof algae. Down below, we’ve explained some of the home remedies we recommend using if you want an instant remedy before calling us. If you wish to avail our services, feel free to contact us by filling the form out on our website.

DIY Methods To Remove Roof Algae

If you’re a DIY person, then here are some of the ways you could remove roof algae.

Bleach And Water

Make a solution of 50% water and 50% bleach in a spray bottle. This solution effectively kills algae. Spray this solution on the affected areas and let it do its work for aroun 15 to 20 minutes.

Rinse it thoroughly with water but be careful to not have any collateral damage. Make sure to wear gloves among other protective gear before trying this as it could cause some side effects if inhaled.

If you have plants on your roof, we would suggest you keep them inside your house where they can stay protected from the harsh chemical reactions.

Vinegar And Water

If you want a less harsh solution than bleach and water, then you could try a mixture of vinegar and water. If your algae problem isn’t that aggressive, then this would work effectively.

Make a solution of equal parts of white vinegar and water and spray it on the affected areas on your roof. Let the vinegar solution sit for 15 to 20 minutes and then rinse your roof with water. Make sure to rinse it thoroughly to keep your plants protected. 

How To Prevent Algae Growth?

Roof algae, like mould and moss, thrive in places where there is adequate amount of moisture and bacteria. If it can be prevented from the start, you won’t have to deal with this issue frequently.

Here are some of the ways you can prevent algae growth on your roof:

Trim Surrounding Trees

If the trees surrounding your roof are overgrown, they can spread bacteria onto your roof and transfer spores of algae. The trees should not be hanging over your roof.

Avoid Stagnant Water

Having stagnant water on your roof is another factor that could boost algae growth on your roof. Try to keep your roof as dry as possible to avoid any growth of mould or even attracting mosquitoes. Try to keep the gutters running down from the roof clean. 

Zinc or Copper Strips

You can try installing zinc or copper strips underneath the shingles closest to the peak of the roof, leaving an inch or two exposed. The metal molecules flow down on the roof when it rains, acting like a zinc or copper wash which prevents algae or moss from growing.

Algae Resistant Shingles

There are shingles available which are infused with copper granules which are in turn toxic to algae. These remain effective for many years.

How Can We Help?

Algae can be prevented on the roof, but sometimes it is stubborn enough to stay put with just homemade remedies. Soft washing is also a popular method to remove algae from the roof. It has been used for more than 25 years. It is recommended by the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA).

We have an extensive series of services you can choose from. Feel free to explore our website and learn more about soft washing and how we can help in your struggle of roof and house maintenance.