A sturdy roof is your home's first line of defense regarding protection from the elements. Over time, however, roofing systems take a beating from the outdoors, and damage shows up in various forms. One way is through staining, and while it isn't the worst type of roof damage there is, it's usually a sign of an inner issue that needs resolving.
A common culprit of staining or streaking on roofs is water- and if it's left to wreak havoc, more problems can arise. We're sure you can imagine how stressful watching your roof decline in curb appeal, and proper function is, so let's take the first step- identification.
At RoofCrafters, we've installed roofing systems in the Southeast for nearly thirty years. We know firsthand that roofs aren't wizards that live forever. As they age, they may take on different colors and stains that mean something else is trying to take over their new home.
This article goes in-depth to cover why roofs stain and what your streaks could mean based on their appearance. Every homeowner should have information like this handy because it's not every day you see a manual discussing what different colors on your roof mean. Because of that reason, we're stoked to get started. Are you ready?! We are.
My Roof is Stained- From What?
When you notice a substance that seems to be taking residence on your roof, your first step should be an inspection. Check your roof from the ground up and ask yourself a couple of questions.
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What color is the substance?
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Is the substance dark in color?
Green or Black Stains
If you notice green or colors dark in hue, you may be dealing with the presence of abundant living organisms like moss or algae. In many parts of the country, roofs tend to grow an algae species called gloeocapsa magma. You can find it taking shape as streaks or patches of slimy and moist goo. Colors vary from blue to green to pure black.
The presence of consistent moisture and heat create a breeding ground for microorganisms such as this one. Because its ideal conditions are warm and wet, you'll see these algae predominantly in the East. What's essential to know is algae like this one don't pose a significant threat to the livelihood of your roof- unlike mild and mildew. Those two are the duo to pay attention to.
On the other hand, algae can still create unwanted conditions for your roof. They may lock in moisture to certain areas, inviting creatures who prefer damp places to live. When animals and insects are involved, a problem on a much grander scale resumes.
To clean your roof and get rid of algae, it needs cleaning. You could clean the roof yourself, but doing that may cause irreversible damage to it. Roofs aren't indestructible, and if you're too abrasive with them, you could hurt their structure. That's why it's essential to call in the professionals. They have all the necessary equipment to perform this task while causing minimal damage to your roofing system.
Yellow or White Stains
If you see lighter-colored stains on the white or yellow side, you may be looking at hard water buildup from air conditioning equipment. Because of how light and vibrant the colors are, they're very noticeable.
Hard water is present with many dissolvable minerals like magnesium or calcium, which leave a residue on both the inside and outside of the home. Similarly to algae, hard water deposits don't necessarily pose a threat to your roof, but they can reduce the efficiency of equipment on your roof and cause quite an eyesore.
Other Sources of Staining and Discoloration
Sometimes you may see red or brown stains on your roof, particularly near the chimney. If there are spots near your chimney that are red or brown in color, it's more than likely rust. Rust is a common occurrence in everyday life, and many recommend cleaning the area with oxalic acid to finish its appearance.
Another common issue that unsettles homeowners is light spots on their asphalt shingles. Over time, your darker-colored shingles may lighten due to natural aging caused by severe weather patterns. When this happens, it's crucial to inspect the shingles themselves. This may be an excellent time to call your local roofer to begin an inspection. They'll assess the shingles thoroughly and let you know what they find.
You may even notice staining and debris on your trees, especially if you have limbs hanging over your home. These spots could come from numerous sources, so ensure you watch over your roof and make sure none of it transfers to your home.
How to Prevent Roof Staining
Some recommended practices involve simple chemistry. Algae dislike the presence of trace minerals, so adding sheets of copper or zinc to your roof may help deter them. During rainstorms, water will wash over the sheets, causing metallic atoms to trickle down and push away any algae from taking form. Many homeowners, however, won't do this.
In this case, your best bet is to have routine maintenance performed on your roof! Roof maintenance is critical if you want your roof to last for years to come, and many homeowners put it off or forget about it. You can do several things on your own to keep your roof looking fantastic over the years but leave the more significant projects to your professional roofer.
Should I Take Care of My Stained Roof?
Absolutely! If you notice stains on your roof, you should take action as soon as you can. Choosing a roofer that suits you is essential to the process of roof inspection. It's easier to choose just anyone you find on the internet, but picking one that has the experience, patience, and drive you need is worth the extra research. Remember to always make sure you choose a roofing contractor that has your best interest at heart! To ensure you know exactly what to look for in a contractor, check out our complete roofer checklist. It'll help pave the way to finding the perfect roofing professional for you!
If you think you're ready to begin the process of identifying your roof stains, RoofCrafters is thrilled to assist you! We want you to know that a clean, shiny, and fresh new roof is only a dial away. To get in touch with one of our friendly representatives, take a leap over to our contact page.
