Blue Green Algae On Roof Shingles

According to algae expert michael guiry algae base at references some of these black algae are as identified in the lab blue green or even lichenized algae while others are a diverse group of coccoid algae like our microscope photo of more green algae from a roof sample below that are turning out be be very diverse.

Blue green algae on roof shingles.

The most common culprit is actually a blue green algae known as gloeocapsa magma that is spread by airborne spores. The growths on the roof are cyanobacteria or blue green algae a phylum of organisms that has dwelt on earth for about 3 billion years. Algae can grow in moist shaded areas so if a homeowner has trees hanging over their roof tell them to trim them back to let the sunshine warm and dry the roof. If you ve noticed it on your roof you may have mistaken this common algae for mold or mildew.

The black mold like stains and streaks that appear on roofs particularly light colored asphalt shingles is actually a blue green algae gloeocapsa magma. Typically it will appear as dark black stains or streaks. Algae can cause unsightly stains and growths on your new roof. As primordial photosynthesizers they were the originators.

Blue green algae usually brings images of lakes and waterways clogged with algae causing damage to the ecosystem not a roof. If you live in a humid area of the country you ve probably seen unsightly dark streaks on asphalt shingle roofs. Living in a humid area of the country like florida you ve probably seen your asphalt shingle roofs with unsightly dark streaks on them. Many homeowners mistake algae for roof mold in most cases however it is really a blue green type of algae and when it dies it leaves dark streaks on your roof.

A blue green algae known as gloeocapsa magma could be the reason you have the algae which is spread by airborne spores sometimes it can also be caused by an accumulation of mildew mold dirt or defective shingles. See gaf shingle accessory limited warranty for complete coverage and restrictions. If a new roof is in order then suggest gaf shingles with stainguard protection to help ensure the beauty of a roof against unsightly blue green algae. Products with stainguard plus algae protection are covered by a 25 year limited warranty against blue green algae discoloration.

Stainguard plus algae protection is available only on shingles sold in packages bearing the stainguard plus logo. However algae is commonly found on roofs across the usa and canada. Commonly found in climates with warm humid summers it does no damage to the roofing but it certainly does looks bad. A roof may develop different types of algae lichens and fungi as bacteria take over.