Here s why algae grows on roofs.
What causes black streaks on roofs.
The streaks are caused by a type of algae known as gloeocapsa magma.
For some of us the black streaks or stains we see on asphalt shingles is something relatively new.
Although these dark spots and ugly black streaks on your roof may look like dirt mildew soot or mold what they really are is algae.
Technically the black streaks on roofs are a form of algae known as gloeocapsa magma.
While not immediately damaging they can prematurely age shingles.
The most common type is known as gloeocapsa magma also known as blue green algae.
What are those ugly black streaks on my roof.
Algae may be mistaken for soot dirt or tree droppings most of which typically produce only localized discoloration.
As the blue green algae.
Black streaks on shingled roofs are a common though mysterious sight.
They re actually algae otherwise known as gloeoapsa magma and they are as nasty as they are resilient.
When we were younger we didn t see this eyesore waiting to make our home look unsightly inviting more fungi and plant matter to attach itself to the shingles and cause damage if left alone.
Over time this algae accumulates developing a black outer coating which causes stains on.
Algae growth may cause discoloration on roofs resulting in brown or black streaks on a rooftop.
The black streaks running down roofs are actually a hardy algae called gloeocapsa magma.
The black streaks are also known as black algae or roof mold.
While the streaks do not cause a great deal of damage they can cause the shingle to age prematurely.
Areas of the country with low humidity have fewer instances of roof streaks while the problem is relatively common in the southeast where it s more humid and warm.
The black roof stains are caused by a form of algae that has been around for years typically found in the woods on the north side of trees or on exposed rocks.
If you re seeing black streaks running along your roof chances are you ve mistaken them for dirt or even mold.
Causes of black streaking on roofs.
If you live in a humid area of the country you ve probably seen unsightly dark streaks on asphalt shingle roofs.
If you live in a humid area of the country you ve probably seen unsightly dark streaks on asphalt shingle roofs.
Black stains on an asphalt roof caused by algae.
Algae arrive on the rooftop through the air in the form of spores or clumps of cells.
Here s what they are and what to do about them.
