Scientifically algae is a broad term for a vastly diverse group of

photosynthetic eukaryotic organisms. Or in layman's terms, it's a plant that

thrives in humid and warm environments. It's a furry-looking, blueish-green

patch that you may see on your roof or on your neighbor’s.

When algae and specific fungi are together, they morph into an organism

called lichen. These leafy, branchlike, crusty structures are destructive and

harder to remove than the algae itself so it's easier to treat and remove the

algae before it gets to that point.

You can help avoid and prevent algae and lichen by selecting certain

shingles with algae resistance during your new roofing process. There are

usually 3 classes of resistance that can withstand the discoloration of the

algae growth over the years. The higher the rating the more durable the

shingles will be against the algae.

- Class I: Highest rating

- Shingles are extremely resistant to algae

- Class II: Second-highest rating

- Shingles are fairly resistant to algae

- Class III: Lowest rating

- Shingles are somewhat resistant to algae

The shingles are identical to regular ones but they're composed of copper

granules that aid in stopping algae growth much better than the regular

shingles. The manufacturer will signify what the lifespan of the algae

resistance is. Annual roof inspections

It's much easier to help prevent algae and lichen than to try and remove

them! Here at Southern Star Roofing and Seamless Gutters, we offer FREE

annual inspections on roofs we have repaired or replaced! Having an

annual roof check-up also allows us to inspect your roof for other problems

or potential issues!

If you notice this organism growing on your roof here are a few things you

DON’T want to do:

- Power washing

- Do not power wash your roof!! It may help remove some algae

but in the process, the high pressure is tearing off the protective

granules on your shingles! These particles give weight and

strength to the shingles and help reduce heat absorption by

bouncing the sunlight off of them and in turn, reduce your

energy bill.

- Your roof was not designed to withstand that type of pressure

and could possibly rip the shingles off or cause damage to them

and create leaks.

- Power Washing can actually also have the opposite effect and

spread the algae across your roof instead of getting rid of it!

- Don't wait

- If you notice the algae growth, contact your local roofing

contracture to make sure no moisture is getting trapped under

the shingles and causing potential leaks! Don't wait!

- When lichen forms after years of algae growth, you also risk

other things growing with it like mold or moss causing damage

that WILL need replacement or a whole new roof.

Protect your roof with proper preventative and regular maintenance and it

will continue to protect you.