What Causes Streaks On Roof Shingles

Every wonder what causes those ugly black streaks and stains on your roof.

What causes streaks on roof shingles.

This algae growth usually begins as small spots and then eventually becomes visible streaks. The most common culprit is actually a blue green algae known as gloeocapsa magma that is spread by airborne spores. Black streaking on roofs is a common problem. It can happen to homes that are otherwise maintained very well but why.

Rather they are caused by a hardy algae known as. Algae if left untreated can also cause your shingles to deteriorate over time. Though often attributed to an accumulation of dirt defective shingles mold or mildew. Also algae and fungus can grow together to form lichen the roots of which can wrap around and feed on the granules covering the shingles.

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. If you live in a humid area of the country you ve probably seen unsightly dark streaks on asphalt shingle roofs. The streaks are caused by a type of algae known as gloeocapsa magma. Algae grow and reproduce as they continue to feed on the limestone turning your roof shingles into loose husk over time.

But now this black algae is termed a roof shingle algae because of the annoying discoloration on a asphalt shingle roof. Almost without fail every photo of an abandoned house would have black streaks on roof shingles. When rain hits the strips it produces a solution that runs down the roof and keeps algae moss and fungus from growing. After all asphalt shingles contain limestone which happens to be one of algae s major food sources.

Video on how to clean softwash an asphalt shingle roof including where to find. Black streaks on shingles aren t caused by leaking tar. The most common type is known as gloeocapsa magma also known as blue green algae. Causes of black streaking on roofs.

Dark streaks or roof discoloration caused by algae happens in varying degrees across the u s especially in areas exposed to warm humid conditions. While the streaks do not cause a great deal of damage they can cause the shingle to age prematurely. This isn t unique to abandoned houses either. While the dark streaks are unsightly experts tell our team that the greatest danger to the roof is from moisture retention or root damage that algae and other life forms can cause.