Algae and mold can look quite harmless. In fact, you might accept them as part of the residential Clinton Township MI look and sometimes adds to its homely curb appeal. However, black algae and mold — as well as its counterparts — are dangerous not only to your roof, but to your family as well. Therefore, always remove and prevent black algae streaks on roof from happening when possible.
It’s important to always clean your roof and have Clinton Township MI’s finest roofers to help you keep your roof in top shape all the time. In doing so, you prevent the dangers black algae streaks on roof pose to your health. Fiddler Roof Cleaning has an excellent post on the dangers of roof mold and algae.
The Dangers of Black Algae Streaks on Roof To Your Home.
We’ve all seen a house with an exceptionally dirty roof at one point or another. At Fiddler Roof Cleaning, naturally we tend the see these kinds of houses more than most. But even if you’re not in the business of roof cleaning at all, there’s something that you should know about living with a dirty roof. In essence, a dirty roof isn’t only unsightly to the eye, but it can also cost you more money and even adversely affect your health. Thanks for taking the time to check out this week’s blog. Join us as we go over some of the dangers of mold and roof algae.
Yes, it will Affect Your Health
No matter how you cut it, mold will always have a negative impact on your health. While many reports chronicle the affect of mold on those with allergy problems, the fact remains living in a mold infested home can make anyone sick. In South Florida, the black stains on our roofs are caused by Gloeocapsa magma, this is a blue green algae that’s predominantly found in warm and humid climates… something we are all too familiar with here in South Florida. (Continued)
You might be thinking it’s only algae and moss cleaning, and you’ll not have to call on roofing contractors for additional technical help. Cleaning them off your roof and making sure they do not return only requires following a set of simple instructions and using non-toxic chemicals and equipment you already possess.
If you’d like to clean your roof regularly by yourself, Asphalt Roofing Manufacturer’s association has a great guide to preventing black algae streaks on roof and the growth of moss. Learn more about it below.
DIY Cleaning and Preventing Black Algae Streaks on Roof
The most effective method of cleaning algae and moss from a roof is with a 50:50 mix of laundry strength liquid chlorine bleach and water.Apply with a sprayer and allow the solution to dwell on the roof surface for 15 to 20 minutes, and then rinse thoroughly with low pressure water. Extended dwell times may be necessary, however, avoid letting the solution dry completely as this may prevent complete rinsing.
Take proper precautions to protect landscaping and surrounding areas from the chlorine bleach solution. Use appropriate personal protective equipment when working with chlorine bleach. Algae will disappear and w ash away with subsequent rains.
Moss will loosen over time and may be removed with a leaf blower. In severe cases, it may take more than one bleach treatment to kill all of the moss. Never use a pressure washer to clean an asphalt shingle roof as this w ill cause granule loss and very likely premature failure of the roof system.
There are some steps that can be taken to discourage moss and algae growth:
- 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. (Read more)
However, as with any activity involving undesirable organisms and materials, you will face dangers if you intend to do the cleaning yourself. You expose yourself to catching the ailments exposure to black algae streaks on roofs bring. Always take all the necessary precautions before you attempt to clean your roof by yourself.
These warnings on DIY black algae streaks on roof removal by Green Home Solutions is not meant to discourage, but to help you practice caution when performing regular cleaning on your roof.
Reasons to Avoid DIY Black Mold Removal
Although the serious health effects that come from black mold exposure is enough to avoid a DIY removal, it isn’t the only reason to call in an expert team to handle a mold infestation in your home. Certified mold specialists are trained in advanced methods to not only safely eliminate mold, but also to identify any hidden issues that you may not be aware of. Additionally, choosing to handle black mold removal on your own can result in:
- Making the Situation Worse: Black mold releases spores, which can spread if not properly contained during removal. This can cause the mold to appear in other areas of your home, making a small problem a much larger issue.
- Missing Hidden Mold in the Home: Mold is notorious for hiding in unassuming places, such as the air vents of your property. While you may be able to remove the obvious mold growth, you may also miss vital areas that require proper treatment for full remediation. (Continued)
If you haven’t the time to spare to clean the black algae streaks on roof, you can count on Miller’s Home Improvement to help you. We are a roofing company with decades of experience in repairs, installations, and maintaining roofs. Call us today to know more about what we can do for you.
