Remove Ugly Black Streaks From Your Roof Before They Cause Permanent Damage
Every year, more and more homes are infested with an algae-like bacteria called Gloeocapsa Magma. This infestation presents itself in the form of black streaking on your shingles and can lead to costly repairs if left untreated. Luckily, there is something that homeowners can do to protect their roof from this invasive algae— and Mike Palubiak and his team at Perfect Power Wash are here to help.
Airborne Roof-Killing Algae
One thing about Gloeoapsa magma is that you have probably seen it (black streaks) on your neighbors’ roofs, as well as your own, indicating that the bacteria can travel in search of a comfortable breeding ground. As it spreads, Gloeocapsa magma eats away at the limestone filler in your shingles, causing damage and ugly streaking. First appearing on the north side of your roof, generally, this algae spreads without hesitation if not addressed in a timely manner.
One effective solution is to contract a professional to provide what is known as a “roof treatment”. This service utilizes a soft-pressure application of specially formulated algaecides to safely eradicate the infestation at its source. However, when choosing the right company for the job, be sure to do your research and select a reputable business with the experience to safely provide great results— such as Perfect Power Wash.
Right Place, Right Time
Mike Palubiak, owner of Perfect Power Wash, began cleaning homes in 2000 for friends and neighbors. When he started, he noticed the black streaks plaguing the roofs of many of his clients. “I knew there had to be a safe solution, because using high pressure on a roof can cause extensive damage and expensive repairs. I wanted to make sure I was giving my customers the safest and most effective process possible,” said Mike. “This resulted in the soft-wash roof treatment that we now provide for thousands of homeowners each year.
“Algae thrives in moist conditions, like your shingles, and feeds on the organic material found inside them,” says Palubiak. “As the algae eats away at the limestone filler, it leaves behind black streaking to shelter itself from sun exposure. That is why you are seeing these streaks on your roof.” Mike has spent 20+ years studying this algae growth, so he has seen the long-term damage it can cause. “By eating the limestone on the shingles, Gloeocapsa Magma compromises the integrity of your roof, shortening its lifespan. Since the roof is darker it is also less reflective. This makes the home hotter inside and more energy is required to cool it. Worse yet, ugly algae stains reduce the perceived value of a home, reducing curb appeal and pride as a homeowner. The best thing to do with algae is to eliminate it as soon as possible.”
The Perfect Solution
Fortunately for homeowners, Mike and his team at Perfect Power Wash have the perfect solution for protecting your roof. Their soft wash Roof Treatment is designed specifically to remove Gloeocapsa Magma in the safest possible manner. The Roof Treatment utilizes an extremely low-pressure application of an algaecide that not only removes streaks on contact, but also neutralizes moss and lichens. Once the algaecide saturates the moss and lichens, they will begin to discolor, break down, and will fall off over time as the roots naturally release themselves from the shingles.”