Mold and roof algae are common on Manhattan roofs. If left untreated, mold can spread to other parts of the home, increasing odor and creating a hazard for any inhabitants with allergies or respiratory problems. However, mold and algae are not the same things regarding how they harm your roof. Mold grows on a plant and other organic matter that has fallen onto your roof, while algae feed on the limestone powder in asphalt shingles.
You can’t stop algae and mold spores from floating through the air and landing on your roof, but you can assist in preventing mold formation by keeping your roof shingles clean. Thankfully, there are many ways to safely remove mold from Manhattan roofing without using harsh chemicals that could cause damage.
How To Get Rid of Mold and Algae?
An old conventional approach is to spray a solution of chlorine bleach and water on asphalt shingles to remove mold and algae stains. You leave the solution to sit for about 5 minutes before rinsing it with a hose. On the other hand, Bleach isn’t the best remedy for a couple of reasons: it’s harmful to plants (and most other living things), and it can damage shingles if left on too long or not properly washed off.
You can protect your plants from bleach spray, but the rinse water will end up in your gutters, yard, and other areas.
A Better Solution To Bleach and Water For Algae
Contacting professional roofing services in Manhattan or purchasing a commercial roof-cleaning product is a better option. However, these cleaning solutions have the disadvantage that, unlike bleach, they take a long time to remove the discoloration, often weeks or months.
Preventing Future Problems
There are a few basic steps you can take to prevent mold and algae from growing again on your freshly cleaned roof. The simplest solution is to use a cleaning or treatment product to prevent algae and mold growth over time.
The Natural Way To Protecting Your Roof
There’s also the longstanding preventative measure of installing zinc or copper strips near the ridgeline of the affected roof planes. Both metals contain minerals that naturally inhibit algae and mold. Unfortunately, the runoff water carries minerals off the metal and washes them down the roof when it rains.
The Long Term Solution To Mold and Algae on Your Roof
Finally, when it’s time to replace your old roof, request algae-fighting shingles for a long-term, low-maintenance option. On asphalt shingles, copper-clad granules (mixed in with conventional mineral granules) are used. By the same mechanism as the zinc and copper strips, the unique granules naturally suppress algae development.
If replacing your roof is the best option for dealing with mold or algae, make sure you consult with a competent roofing services, like ours for advice, an estimate, and the best solution for your home. TCI Manhattan Roofing Repair Services NYC have been providing a high-quality service for all your roofing needs. Contact us today!
How to Identify You’ve Got a Mold Problem on Your Roof
In homes with excessive humidity or insufficient roof drainage, microbial overgrowth from algae, moss, mildew, and mold is frequent. Unfortunately, most homeowners misinterpret the indicators of a mold infestation as a cosmetic problem or a sign of aging.
When looking for mold on a roof, keep the following in mind:
- Know the distinctions between algae, moss, mildew, and mold.
You won’t be able to solve the problem correctly until you can accurately identify it. Each of the three creatures has its own set of issues.
- Algae grow naturally and are usually innocuous, but excessive growth can cause property damage in the correct conditions. Its green, or black-green tint, which mimics a surface stain, distinguishes it. To the touch, algae are sticky and slimy.
- Moss is a typically benign organism that can be seen growing in a variety of environments. Its fuzzy brilliant green color makes it conspicuous.
- Mildew is a disease-causing organism. In warm, rainy areas, its powdery residue spreads swiftly. Its color ranges from mild gray-green to dark gray-green.
Mold, unlike the other species, is not a good thing to have around. It’s unappealing and frequently smells terrible.
Mold grows on damp wood or drywall and forms dark streaks on the material’s surface.
- Pay attention to the odors.
A vacation house that has been closed for some time may smell musty, but if the odor persists after you’ve aired it out, you may have a mold problem. Likewise, the presence of odors coming from the attic space is a sure sign that mold is growing there.
- Prolonged illnesses can be a sign of mold on the roof.
Mold comes in a variety of forms, but only a small percentage of them are harmful. Even non-toxic mold, on the other hand, can create serious health concerns. Mold infestations have been linked to various respiratory problems, including infections, overly runny noses and eyes, asthma flare-ups, and even skin rashes.
- Visual interior signs are evidence of an extensive outbreak.
Water infiltration into the attic and drywall area from a roof leak, even a tiny leak, produces an ideal habitat for mold growth. However, because these locations are largely contained, you may not realize you have a problem until it is too late.
A leak is often indicated by discoloration along the junction between the ceiling and the wall. You’ll also see that the paint surrounding the windows is peeling or bubbling. Wood in the attic and wood exposed for ornamental purposes are also affected by roof mold. Wood becomes black, splotchy, and softens over time.
How to Prevent Roof Mold From Developing
The most effective strategy to deal with mold on your roof is to prevent it from growing in the first place. During your annual roof inspection, take steps to eliminate the conditions that make your home susceptible to mold growth.
- Manicure shade trees
Trim surrounding tree branches to around three feet from your roofline. Shade is created by overhanging branches, which stops water from evaporating quickly. Microbial development thrives in stagnant water, which leads to the formation of mold on the roof.
- Keep gutters clean
Remove any debris, garbage, or dirt accumulated in your gutters and dispose of it properly. Clean gutters allow rainwater to flow freely from the roof to the ground. Clogged gutters hold water on the roof, producing the ideal conditions for mold to thrive.
- Install ridge vents as necessary.
Ridge vents are located near the apex of a slanting roof. They allow warm, moist air from the attic and roof structure to escape. This air movement keeps those places cooler and dryer than they would be without a vent, making a mold, mildew, and other bacteria less attracted to them.
- Apply moisture and/or microbial barrier
Roofing materials and technology have come a long way in recent decades. One of these advancements is the ability to apply chemicals to your current roof that repel water and prevent the growth of algae and mildew. In addition, new roofs are frequently made of materials that are impregnated with these qualities.
Tips to Eradicate Mold From Your Roof
Despite your greatest efforts and preparations, mold infestations on your roof may still occur. Fortunately, if you identify it early enough, you can make efforts to eliminate it on your own.
- Apply a bleach solution
To kill the germs, saturate the afflicted area with a solution of equal parts bleach and tap water. Allow the solution to soak into the mold particles before rinsing with a regular garden hose. Scrubbing or using a pressure washer can also cause asphalt shingles to be damaged.
- Install copper or zinc strips
Algae do not grow on these metal strips. They are included in certain asphalt shingles, but they may not be present on older roofs. Metal strips can be installed in appropriate locations, such as around the chimney and roof peak.
- Vinegar solutions are effective against moss.
Apple cider vinegar and water in equal parts have long been regarded as powerful herbicides and pesticides. Algae and moss are killed by using it, but mold is not. Also, because overspray will harm surrounding shrubs and plants, care must be taken to safeguard them. Vinegar alters the pH of the soil quickly, making it unsuitable for most plants.
Conclusion
The roof is an important part of the structure of your home. It will last for years if properly placed and maintained. Regular maintenance and repairs, including mold removal, are critical to your roof’s long-term viability.
Make sure you can see microbial growth and mold on your roof and take action to prevent it from spreading. If you do have microbial growth on your roof, catch it early so you can properly repair it and avoid disaster.
