Certified Soft-Wash Roof Cleaning

Have you noticed black lines on your roof? These organic stains are an known as Gloeocapsa magma.

Gloeocapsa magma gained notoriety in the Southeastern United States in the 1990’s, but it has since spread throughout most of the rest of the United States and Canada. This particular type of cyanobacteria is responsible for creating black stains and streaks on roofs.
1. The bacteria accumulate over time as it feeds on moisture and calcium carbonate.
2. This accumulation begins to show the black stains as the cyanobacteria develop their dark and hard UV-protective outer coating.
The main reasons for the rapid spread and noticeability of these cyanobacteria are thought to be:
Rising humidity and temperatures combined with more and more bacteria spores promotes their spread with these favorable conditions.
Fiberglass shingles are made with limestone as a filler (in the asphalt). These shingles hold moisture and organic “bacteria food” material longer than the paper/asphalt/ceramic shingles of the 1980s. The bacteria are airborne. This cyanobacteria causes substantial destruction to roofs causing shingle decay and loss of reflective power. Over time, Gloeocapsa magma breaks down the shingles by feeding off of the limestone granules embedded in the shingles. This decreases a roof’s ability to reflect ultra-violet rays of light and shortens the life of the roof.
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 conclude the bacteria to be harmful, if left untreated, as the growth holds moisture within shingles causing premature aging, rotting, and/or granule loss.
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.

Other common issues that roofs in the South face are Moss and Lichen. Both of these organic materials are much more destructive to roofs since they have a root structure. These roots can break, tear or raise shingles and could lead to water intrusion, resulting in further damage to your home or business.

No need to worry, now that you know what’s eating your roof make the call to A+ and let us rid you of these unsightly growths. Our certified soft-wash process is safe for any roofing material and will leave your roof looking like new again! Call today for your free evaluation.

919-383-7166