Roof Washing

The truth behind Roof Stains. What are they and why are they there? 

Modern day fiberglass shingles are made with limestone as a filler (in the asphalt). These shingles hold moisture and organic material longer than the paper/asphalt/ceramic shingles of the 1980s. Think of this moisture and organic material as “bacteria food.”

Here in the Southeast, we have a very common bacteria called Gloeocaspa Magma. This bacteria is airborne. Once the bacteria has found its way to your roof, it will begin to grow there and accumulate over time as it feeds on the “bacteria food” found in the shingles.  

Once the bacteria have become noticeable, the stains will continue to worsen year to year. As the bacterial colony grows, gravity pulls it downward, resulting in the smear-like stain down roofs. 

Most experts within the subject area agree that the bacteria is harmful to your roof, if left untreated, as the growth holds moisture within shingles causing premature aging, rotting, and/or granule loss. 

Don't just take our word for it.  A quick Google search shows this from Wikipedia: “the buildup of Gloeocaspa magma on residential properties has led to earlier roof replacements, lowered property resale values, insurance companies canceling policies and increased utility costs as the black stained roofing draws in more heat” and “decreases a roof's ability to reflect ultra-violet rays of light and shortens the life of the roof.”

Treatment is Available!

Let me start by saying don’t EVER let anyone pressure wash your roof. This will blast away the granules on your shingles and these granules serve as your roof systems first layer of defense against water and the sun’s harmful UV rays. 

The number 1 treatment option is to apply a soap solution that contains sodium hypochlorite. This solution is applied using a non-pressure technique known as Soft Washing and is the preferred technique for eradicating the harmful bacteria and avoiding costly damage to the shingles.

The Professionals at Clean Again, LLC are highly skilled in this Soft Washing technique and use the best equipment the industry has to offer. Don’t trust your roof system to just anyone...this is one of the most expensive features of your home.

If you would like more information on Gloeocaspa magma, your roof system, or how we can help you make it Clean Again, please contact one of our sales reps or anyone on our Engineering team. We are here to help.