Why Is My Shingled Roof Stained and How Do I Clean It?
As a homeowner, there’s nothing better than pulling up to your home and seeing the beautiful structure into which you have invested so much time and money. But as time weathers on, so does the home’s exterior – especially the roof. What was once brand new can look old and stained, leaving you, the homeowner, wondering what you can do to bring your roof back to the uniformly clean surface it once was. So let’s take a look at why a shingled roof can become stained, and what you, the homeowner, can do to get it clean again.
What Causes Stains on Asphalt Roof Shingles?
Of course there are many reasons you may find stains on your roof, and when it comes to asphalt shingles, it really comes down to two things: algae and mold.
Clogged gutters can lead to roof damage, which can then lead to mold growth, causing the shingles to become stained. Any time debris is left on a roof, whether it’s tree debris or items dropped from a tree from the wind or an animal, the debris can rot, hold water, and then discolor the shingles. Moss and algae can begin to grow, leading to an opportunity of mold setting in, and when algae and mold combine, it creates a complex life form called lichens that will literally eat away at the shingles.
How to Remove Stains From Shingles
Depending on what the root cause of the stain is, there are some options to consider:
- Removing black stains from roof shingles – a gentle cleaning with a combination of bleach and water will help, but it does not last long when using oxygen bleach.
- Removing rust stains from roof shingles – from oxalic acid to vinegar, there are a few options that can help remove rust stains.
- Removing algae or mold from roof shingles – we are back to bleach or vinegar for this one, or opt for a commercial cleaning product.
Is Hiring a Professional Worth it?
Seeing as how cleaning a roof can be a safety hazard, bringing in a professional is not a bad idea! Not only can personal safety be in question, but even with the best of intentions, home remedies don’t always work, and having a professional inspect the situation can save time and frustration. Stained roofs can be a sign of other issues that only a professional can determine, so please give us a call if the stains on your roof are causing you concern.
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