Your South Florida roof may have signs of discoloration after years of exposure to the sun, rain and wind. You may notice discoloration in the form of dark spots, large black streaks or concentrated brown stains. These discolored spots on your tiles or shingles are not caused by dirt. They are an indication of algae growth.
What is roof algae?
Roof algae forms in small spots throughout the system’s exterior. These algae are caused by airborne algal spores, which thrive in Florida’s humid and warm climate. Algae growth can be accelerated by years of wear and tear from Florida’s extreme temperatures. The algae creates a pigmented coating that appears as discoloration to protect itself from the sun’s UV rays. The dark spots that are discolored will eventually spread to become black streaks. After the initial growth of algae, homeowners in Florida will begin to notice color changes within one to two weeks.
Is roof algal growth dangerous?
Do not panic if you find algae on your Florida roof. The dark streaks and spots may seem scary if you think that there is mold growth. However, it is possible to stop algae growth early. Algae can be removed without compromising the roof’s integrity. However, algae that has been on your roof for a prolonged period of time may have damaged the reflective granules in your roofing materials like tiles or shingles. Algae damage to your roof can cause permanent heat damage that will affect the ability of your home’s interior to keep cool.
How can you get rid of algae?
Roof algae can be eliminated by pressure cleaning. A professional roof cleaning is the best way to get rid of algae on a residential roof. A professional roofer will inspect your roof and assess the extent of the damage. The roof will be cleaned with a safe cleaning solution. Algae will also be removed from the roof. Sometimes, a thorough roof cleaning is not enough to remove severe stains from a Florida roof. To bring your roof back to life, you can replace tiles and shingles, install a roof drainage system or completely replace the entire roof.
South Florida residents don’t have to travel far to find a reliable roofing contractor. Old Time Roofing has been providing services to residents in Pinellas and Hillsborough County for over 35 years. Old Time Roofing Roofing has one goal: To provide exceptional service and top-quality work to our clients, while establishing long-lasting partnerships with each client. Old Time Roofing is a family-owned business that takes pride in every roofing project we plan and execute. Old Time roofing can help you restore your Florida roof system. Call us today for more information.
This post was written by Ted Williams! Ted is the owner of A Old Time Roofing, one of the best roofing companies in Saint Petersburg, FL! Ted is a Master Elite Weather Stopper GAF Roofing Contractor, a double award winner of Best Steep-Slope Contractor from GAF and achiever of Master Elite Consumer Protection Excellence from GAF. He has been serving the Pinellas County area since 1978. Old Time Roofing has a tradition of quality workmanship, servicing residential and commercial properties. Click here for more information!
