Algae Growth and Mold on the Roof
Work With the Best Roofing Contractors in Central Texas
Quality is at the heart of our Austin roofing company in every project we take on. Contact our experienced Central Texas roofers for a same-day, pressure-free inspection. Call 512-375-3654 to book your free inspection.
If you need a new roof installed, LOA is the roofing company to call! Our roofing experts are known for providing quality workmanship at a fair price. If you own a house or business in Central Texas you can't afford to work with another roofer.
Find out how much roof replacement will cost in Austin, Texas and the surrounding areas.
Why Roof Algae and Mold Growth Occur and What You Can Do About It
Mold and algae are different organisms, but they can both grow on roofs and create similar problems with the roofing system. A moldy roof or algae covered roof definitely doesn't help curb appeal, which is reason enough to investigate mold and algae removal. However, as professional roofers we're more concerned with why algae and mold spores are present because it can be the result of a more serious roof problem.
Do you need roof algae or mold removal?
Request a FREE Roof Inspection to Find Out
What Causes Mold and Algae Growth on Roofs
Algae and mold have one thing in common - they both grow where there's excess moisture. If you see mold or algae growth you know that something is causing excessive moisture or you wouldn't be seeing it. It's particularly problematic on asphalt shingles. The limestone filler in asphalt roof shingles is a nutrient for algae, and the granules make it easy for mold spores to latch on and grow.
But these aren't the only contributing factors that lead to roof mold and algae. A few other things are usually at play if you notice dark streaks and discoloration from the growth.
-
Clogged Gutters
A common reason for excess moisture on the roof is gutters that are clogged and don't allow water to drain properly. When gutters are filled with debris water will back up and pool on the roof rather than flowing down spouts.
-
Overhanging Branches
Overhanging trees are a problem beyond dropping debris that can clog up gutters and trap moisture on the roof. Algae and mold like the shade that's provided by the leaf-filled limbs. Shaded areas of the roof are cooler and moisture doesn't evaporate as quickly, so these are the spots where you're most likely to see algae and mold growing.
-
Roof Leaks
Leaks are another reason for the damp environment that supports the growth of algae and mold. Of course, the algae and moldy roof are just a symptom of the leak that needs to be addressed before water damage occurs.
-
Inadequate Insulation
If the attic isn't well insulated there will be greater fluctuations in temperature. Going from hot to cold creates condensation that leads to excess moisture.
-
Inadequate Ventilation
When a roof isn't properly ventilated and air isn't circulating condensation can become a problem. The condensation can build up or get trapped in the roofing materials, providing an ideal environment for mold and algae to grow.
-
Humid Climates
If you live in an area where the humidity levels are high you're more likely to have mold and algae growth on your roof.
How to Remove Roof Mold and Algae
You'll want to remove algae and mold, not just because it ruins the aesthetic of your roof. Stuck on mold and algae isn't just unsightly, it can cause damage that requires roof repair if it isn't addressed. Mold and algae are organisms that slowly eat away at roofing material. Mold exposure is also a concern even if it is outdoors. Here's what you can do about it.
Trim Overhanging Branches
The first thing you'll want to do is trim overhanging branches that can cause issues beyond mold growth. Doing so will help keep the roof clear of debris during the next step.
Roof Cleaning
Now that the limbs are trimmed back you can move on to roof cleaning. A cleaning solution that is half chlorine bleach and half water should remove algae growth and mold. Use a pump sprayer to coat the roof with the bleach solution, let it sit for 20 minutes and then rinse it off. Just make sure the water pressure is low. A power sprayer may remove the mold and algae, but it can also damage roof shingles.
Prevent Future Algae Growth and Mold Growth
You can't control the humidity level outside, but there are steps you can take to prevent roof algae as well as mold growth on your roof.
Roof Maintenance
The best way to prevent algae growth and mold growth is regular maintenance. This includes:
- Having a roof inspection at least once a year to look for issues that can cause excessive moisture.
- Trimming tree limbs back so that they don't hang over the roof.
- Regularly cleaning the gutters and checking downspouts.
- Cleaning the roof to remove mold and algae as soon as it starts and keep it from growing.
Zinc or Copper Strips
You can install zinc or copper strips on the roof to prevent future growth of algae, mold and roof moss. Both zinc and copper are toxic for algae and mold. Copper is considered the best solution since it has more potent anti-microbial agents.
The strips work by releasing zinc or copper granules when it rains. The rainwater carries the granules down the roof, killing mold spores and algae while also preventing growth.
Moldy roofs, algae growth and moss removal are something we're familiar with at LOA. Schedule a free roof inspection to figure out what's causing mold or algae growth on your roof.
