Ever look up at your roof and notice ugly black stains or discoloration? It’s most likely algae growing on your roof. The northeast is prone to high algae growth and the longer it goes uncleaned the worse it can get. Let’s take a look at what you can do to get rid of the algae stains and have your roof looking good as new!
Algae Resistant Shingles
Recently, roofing manufacturers have come begun mixing in copper granules to their roofing products which makes the shingles algae resistant. If you are looking into replacing your roof, ask about algae-resistant shingles so you never have to worry about it again!
Chemical Cleaning
Cleaning your shingles will remove the algae but it will most likely return. Using the right products when cleaning your shingles will extend the timeframe of how long it will be before the algae returns. There are specific products made for cleaning shingles like Wet & Forget Outdoor but if you are looking for a cheaper alternative you can make your own cleaner. All you need is trisodium phosphate (TSP), bleach, and water. If you are wondering which bleach to use, oxygen bleach will lighten stains and is less harmful to the environment but does not produce as immediate or dramatic of an effect as chlorine bleach will.
Supplies and Safety
It’s important to have the correct equipment and clothing when cleaning your roof as it can be a dangerous project. Walking on any roofing can be dangerous and result in serious injuries if you fall. If your roof is too steep call in an expert to handle the clean. They will have professional equipment meant to work on steep inclines.
Bleach can kill plants and shrubs around your house if it gets on them so make sure to wash them down after you are done.
Here is a list of must-haves for when you decide to clean your roof:
- Ladder
- Slip-resistant shoes
- Safety rope
- Cleaner
- Pump sprayer
- Safety goggles
- Rubber gloves
- Old clothes
- Garden hose with a spray nozzle
US Roofing
US Roofing knows roofing inside and out and can help you with your roofing repairs! For more information on what US Roofing can do for you, give us a call at 978 532-6300 or fill out a contact form. We look forward to doing business with you.
