Your roof can resist a lot. But it will not stand up to everything!
Algae and lichen are common growths that can appear on roofs. They may not seem harmful at first. But they indeed can damage your roof. Here, we will discuss what not to do if you find algae or lichen on your roof.
Never Use a Power Washer to Clean Your Roof
Most people’s initial reaction when they see dirt or garbage on their backyard patio is to spray it all with a high-pressure hose. This idea is contrary to what you should do when dealing with lichen or algae.
Some people believe that a power wash would do the work of getting rid of algae. This may sound reasonable. But you should never do this!
This strategy may be effective in removing the algae. Still, it will cause more harm than good by removing the granules that protect your shingles. Washing these granules would be like throwing away a significant portion of your roof’s investment. They shield the shingles from the weather and provide weight to reinforce them. Also, they reflect light off the shingles, lowering energy costs.
Furthermore, your roof is not designed to withstand the pressure you would apply by power washing. It might cause the shingles to come loose or even create leaks if the roof is severely damaged.
Do you still need another reason?
Power cleaning can actually spread the algae to other regions, defeating the whole point of your efforts!
It may be tempting to use high-pressure washing on your roof. But a gentle wash is actually the best and safest alternative.
Don’t Put Off Algae Treatment Any Longer If You See It
The first thing you should not do if you find algae or lichen on your roof is to ignore it. These growths can cause damage to your roof. So, the longer you wait to address them, the worse the damage will be.
Are you thinking about removing roof algae or lichen yourself? Please, don’t do it.
Climbing onto your roof can be dangerous. Besides, using harsh chemicals or tools can damage your roof if you don’t know how to use them. For example, you should not use bleach to remove algae or lichen from your roof. It can damage your shingles, making them more likely to leak.
Do you or a roof inspection service have discovered algae development? Act quickly while it is still easy to do so. If you get to it quickly enough, a gentle wash should do the work.
Lichen may grow on roofs for months or even years. Other organisms such as moss, bacteria, mold, and mildew can also develop on them. These things can cause irreparable damage, requiring significant repairs or even a new roof if left unchecked.
The roof over your head protects you from the elements. But if you don’t take care of it, it will not last nearly as long as it should.
Roof Algae Prevention in Oklahoma
Is your roof green with algae? Probably, you are thinking forward by planning a yearly inspection. Legend Roofs is here for all your roofing needs, from inspection to repairs to replacements.
Leveraging advanced technologies and skilled craftsmanship, Roofing companies in OKC strive to deliver durable, aesthetically pleasing, and weather-resistant roofing solutions tailored to each client's requirements. Whether it's a small repair or a complete roof installation, these companies prioritize quality workmanship and customer satisfaction, contributing significantly to the resilience and longevity of structures in the OKC area.
To learn more about our services, don’t hesitate to call Legend Roofs at 405-352-7307 and get a FREE no-obligation estimate today. We service areas in Shawnee, Noble, Tecumseh, Oklahoma City, Norman, Moore, and Duncan, OK.