What Causes Stains On Roof Shingles

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 stains on roof shingles.

Roof experts who are highly rated by members of angie s list say the source is an algae called gloeocapsa magma. 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. Surface residues or discoloring stains can affect almost any type of roof. The algae feed off of the limestone within the roof shingles.

Roof shingles are exposed to a lot of wear and tear as extreme heat sun wind and precipitation come into contact with them. Roofing manufacturers have tackled the problem of roof algae by creating shingles containing copper which is deadly to algae. Light spots on roof shingles dark colored asphalt shingles may appear lighter and patchy as they age. The most common class of roof algae is gloeocapsa magma a bacterium that eats water and expels oxygen.

The black stains are buildups of algae that can prevent the sun from burning off the bacteria. The streaks are caused by a type of algae known as gloeocapsa magma. 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. The most common culprit is actually a blue green algae known as gloeocapsa magma that is.

Over time this algae accumulates developing a black outer coating which causes stains on roof shingles. While the streaks do not cause a great deal of damage they can cause the shingle to age prematurely. If you live in a humid area of the country you ve probably seen unsightly dark streaks on asphalt shingle roofs. 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.

Though often attributed to an accumulation of dirt defective shingles mold or mildew. Roof shingle stains are often caused by black algae bleed through or extractive bleeding of asphalt dirt soot or organic debris. When that happens it is generally caused by mildew algae mold or dirt stains. Black stains on an asphalt roof caused by algae.

Look in the gutters for signs of asphalt granules that have washed off and expect to need a replacement. It causes the black stains you may see on your roof. Water stains if the discoloration seems to be damp check the attic or ceiling below the roof stain and investigate for a leak. Roof lichen is a combination of both algae and fungus.