Protecting The Roof Of Your Coastal Roof From Algae and Decay
Algae is one of the leading causes of roof damage and shingle deterioration in coastal homes. As green and black algae forms on your roof, it shortens the lifespan of the shingles leading to premature roof replacement. Coastal houses are very vulnerable to roof problems due to factors that inland houses do not face like salt air and ocean breezes.
Fungus On Roof
Also known as fungus, algae consists of ugly dark brown, green or black streaks on the roof shingles. Some areas of the country are at a higher risk of algae than others. Areas with a rich supply of moist air, such as in coastal areas particularly in warm regions like in the South, create a prime opportunity for the development of algae on your roof. If left unattended, algae will feed on the shingles, cause unsightly steaks, or damage the roofs structure.
Cleaning Verses Replacement
There are products available that will allow you to clean your roof. If you choose to clean your roof, don’t use bleach. Rather try a more environmentally friendly cleaner that is won’t kill your plants and damage the environment. Also, never pressure wash your roof. Pressure washing washes away the granules that protect the shingle from wear.
CertainTeed produces an asphalt shingle with an algae-resistant Streak-Fighter feature in the shingle. CertainTeed claims that specific raw material in the shingle protects it from the streaking and discoloration commonly caused by algae.
In Closing
Take a look at your roof. If you start seeing streaks develop, you should either purchase the products to clean your roof or hire someone to do it for you. If your shingles are worn and you are considering installing a new roof, consider using a high quality shingle that has an algae resistant barrier built in.
Hubert Miles is the founder of Waterfront Houses USA, an online listing service that provides Coastal Houses For Sale and Coast Houses For Sale in the US and Canada.






































