What Causes Stains On Roof Shingles

The most common class of roof algae is gloeocapsa magma a bacterium that eats water and expels oxygen.

What causes stains on roof shingles.

The black stains are buildups of algae that can prevent the sun from burning off the bacteria. Here is a diagnostic guide to types of stains and staining materials found on roof surfaces black red green brown or other coloured stains on asphalt roof shingles or on other roofing materials need first an accurate diagnosis of the stain cause and then proper steps to remove the stain or to prevent future staining on roof shingles surfaces. It causes the black stains you may see on your roof. When that happens it is generally caused by mildew algae mold or dirt stains.

Roof lichen is a combination of both algae and fungus. It is not uncommon for roof shingles to turn black over time. While the streaks do not cause a great deal of damage they can cause the shingle to age prematurely. The algae feed off of the limestone within the roof shingles.

The most common culprit is actually a blue green algae known as gloeocapsa magma that is. One particular condition that has been an issue in southern areas for many years but has become more commonplace in other regions in recent years is the staining of asphalt shingle roofing caused by algae. Water stains if the discoloration seems to be damp check the attic or ceiling below the roof stain and investigate for a leak. Though often attributed to an accumulation of dirt defective shingles mold or mildew.

Black stains on an asphalt roof caused by algae. Replacing the shingles on your roof just because you have black stains is not necessary however and you should be suspicious of any roofer that suggests roof shingle replacement as the only solution to your algae problem. Roof experts who are highly rated by members of angie s list say the source is an algae called gloeocapsa magma. Roofing manufacturers have tackled the problem of roof algae by creating shingles containing copper which is deadly to algae.

And depending on the age and condition of your roof cleaning may be the most cost effective solution since it s about 5 to 10 percent of the price of a roof. Roof shingle stains are often caused by black algae bleed through or extractive bleeding of asphalt dirt soot or organic debris. Surface residues or discoloring stains can affect almost any type of roof. Look in the gutters for signs of asphalt granules that have washed off and expect to need a replacement.

If you live in a humid area of the country you ve probably seen unsightly dark streaks on asphalt shingle roofs. Light spots on roof shingles dark colored asphalt shingles may appear lighter and patchy as they age. This article series tells readers how to identify explain the most common causes of black brown red gray green or white stains appearing on roof shingles and on other building surfaces. What causes those dark marks and what can be done to eradicate them.