HOW TO CLEAN ROOF SHINGLES

What causes the streaks and stains on roofs commonly found in the Dawsonville, Georgia area?

The dark stains and streaks found on many roofs in the Dawsonville, GA area are sometimes mistaken for mold or mildew, but they are actually algae. The most prevalent kind, Gloeocapsa Magma or Blue Green Algae, shields itself from ultraviolet light with a dark pigmented layer. Algae can thrive in areas that have moisture and shade, and they are most commonly found on the north- and east-facing sides of roofs. The algae will grow on the sunny side of the roof, but to a lesser extent.

Algae discoloration often begins as small spots and gradually progresses to streaks on the roof surface. By the time the algae becomes apparent, it has most likely been there for several months or more.

Will algae and moss shorten the lifespan of shingles?

Yes, especially moss. It is the most destructive of the two, as it can accelerate granular loss and lift shingles. When moss grows, it develops hair-like structures called rhizoids, which act like roots. These rhizoids work their way under the edges of the shingles, causing them to lift. This lifting breaks the protective seal, creating entry points for water to seep into the lower layers of the roof and potentially into your home. Additionally, this damage increases the roof's vulnerability to wind.

Gloeocapsa Magma grows on asphalt shingles because of the limestone filler used by most shingle manufacturers. The algae consumes the limestone filler in asphalt shingles because limestone provides essential nutrients (calcium carbonate) for its growth. Over time, this process will lead to the loss of the protective granules.

Can the growth of algae be prevented?

Yes, with regular maintenance. Trimming tree branches back to allow more sunlight to reach the roof and minimize debris accumulation will provide an environment less inviting for such growth. Debris that accumulates on the roof should be cleared regularly because it traps moisture. Keep gutters clean to promote proper water drainage. Do not allow gutters from an upper roof to drain directly on a lower roof; extend the downspout from the upper roof into the lower gutter. I also recommend soft washing as soon as you see signs of algae growth. Algae will likely spread rapidly across the roof within two years, especially in the Dawsonville, GA, area.

What is the safe and effective way to clean a roof?

Our roof cleaning service employs the soft washing technique, which is endorsed by industry experts.

The first thing to do is to pre-wet any vegetation below the roofline and areas downwind. Sodium hypochlorite is safe to use around vegetation as long as it is pre-wetted and rinsed off. The soft-wash solution, composed of 1.5% to 3% sodium hypochlorite, surfactant, and water, is applied to the roof and allowed to sit until the algae fades as much as possible with the initial application. Oftentimes, one soft-wash application is all that is needed for most areas of roofs. Shaded areas will likely need a second application and possibly low-pressure rinsing. Keaton's Pressure Washing, LLC performs roof cleaning safely from a ladder. Walking on a wet roof is not recommended. Our soft-wash equipment can reach up to 60 feet, which is usually more than enough to reach the highest areas.

If your property in the Dawsonville, Georgia, area needs any of our cleaning services—such as roof cleaning, exterior house washing, driveway cleaning, sidewalk cleaning, deck cleaning, patio cleaning, pool deck cleaning, pressure washing, soft washing, or commercial cleaning—please reach out to us for a free estimate. Call us today at (678) 332-6927 or send a request form and experience the difference that professional care can make! Complete client happiness is our first priority; if you're not satisfied, neither are we!

Location: Dawsonville, GA