Articles

Browse Articles  »  Home & Family  »  How Do I Get Rid of Algae on My Roof?

How Do I Get Rid of Algae on My Roof?

by Dalton Kelly Marketing

Aside from leaves and other debris, your roof can become a breeding ground for algae in absence of proper maintenance. While there are several forms of algae including lichens and fungi that can infest your entire roofing system over time, the most common type is blue green. This alga is often characterized by unsightly dark streaks on the roofing system. 

Roof Algae: Signs to Look Out

Look out for the following signs to check if your roof has an algae problem:

  • Black Streaks
  • Discoloration
  • Round lichens
  • White or Green spots
  • Green moss


Contrary to the popular misconception, algae are quite different from moss. Algae tends to spread much faster, it is more common, and it doesn't cause as severe health problems in humans as moss. If you discover any discoloration or unwanted growth on your roof, call in a trusted roofing contractor to perform a thorough roof inspection as soon as possible.

What Are the Causes of Roof Algae?

Excessive moisture, darkness, and heat provide the best condition for algae growth. Most people don't know but algae get its nutrition from limestone filler that is used in many types of roofing shingles. Algae infestation starts with a single spore. If the conditions are right, algae spores start multiplying rapidly and can spread to every part of your roof if left untreated. If you're living in an area with high humidity or your region receives heavy rains for most of the year, your roof is more susceptible to algae infestation.

5 Ways Algae Can Affect Your Roof and Home

Roof algae primarily affect the curb appeal of your home. To effectively deal with any type of discoloration or damage on your roof, the best thing you can do is hire experienced professionals to conduct a roof inspection.

  • Appearance: The first major issue caused by roof algae is ruining the visual appeal of your roof and home. Many homeowners discover that they have algae problems only when they notice dark spots, green fuzz, or black streaks on their roofs. Roof algae can adversely affect the curb appeal of your home.
  • Wood rot:  If excess moisture enters the underlying layers of your roofing system such as its wooden components, it can cause serious and expensive issues in your home including roof leaks. The presence of excess water on wood can rot and soften it down the line which can negatively impact its safety and strength.
  • Home’s value: If you are planning to sell your property soon, you may not be able to get the right price if your roof has algae problems. Algae infestation is a sign that your roof has serious underlying damage, and you may need to replace it soon. This will dramatically affect the resale value of your home. Lichen and algae can spread all over your roof and cause permanent damage and stains.
  • Mold:  Another major issue that excess moisture can cause in your roofing system is mold growth. High humidity in combination with standing water and algae spores provide favorable conditions for mold growth.
  • Integrity: If left unattended, mold and algae will reach every nook and cranny of your roofing system, severely compromising the structural integrity of your roof and home. Allowing algae to infest your roof and spread for years can significantly reduce the lifespan of your roofing system.

Are You Looking for Roof Cleaning, Roof Repair, Or Roof Replacement?

When you contact a trusted contractor to remove algae and moss from your roof, you’ll get to know your best repair and replacement options. On the other hand, in the case of DIY methods, homeowners may not be able to notice the underlying signs of damage like wood rot. 

For more information, you can reach Watkins Construction and Roofing at 601-488-3179. You can also come by and visit us in person to go over your roofing needs. We service areas in Jackson, Flowood, Clinton, and Ridgeland, MS.