Roof Cleaning

There are some steps that can be taken to discourage moss and algae growth:

• Trimming tree branches back to allow more sunlight to reach the roof and minimize debris accumulation will provide an environment less inviting for such growth.
• Debris that does begin to accumulate on the roof should be cleared regularly with a leaf blower or similar, non-abrasive method as part of a regular maintenance program.
• Air flow should be directed down the slope to avoid driving debris under the edges of the shingles.
• Keep gutters clean to promote proper water drainage. Do not allow gutters from an upper roof to drain directly on a lower roof; extend the downspout from the upper roof into the lower gutter.

Oher preventative measures —such as adding zinc or copper strips to prevent both algae and moss, or applying asphalt shingles that incorporate algae resistant copper granules —may be employed when it is time to replace a roof. Currently, there are asphalt shingles available that use algae resistance technology.

Adding zinc or copper strips to an existing roof is not recommended since this will require either applying the strips with exposed nails (which can cause leaks over time) or breaking the sealant bond (which may eventually result in wind damage) to slide the strips under the shingles.

Algae and moss growth on roofs, at a minimum, is an unsightly nuisance. Moss build-up can lead to roof damage or shingle blow -off if left unchecked. Keeping branches trimmed back from the roof and removing any debris that begins to accumulate should be part of a regular roof maintenance program. If moss or algae becomes visible, clean the roof with bleach and water mixture as described above to prevent the spread to nearby roofs.

For more information, visit the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association website

Roof Cleaning Facts

No Pressure Roof Cleaning Cookeville, Crossville, Knoxville Tennessee

Remember the first time you looked up at your roof and noticed those black stains appearing on your shingles? Do you remember how you felt when you saw it slowly spreading across the roof? Your home was fairly new and your shingles barely a few years old. How could this be happening and what was causing it? Well, you weren’t alone in your frustration. It appears that this is quite a common occurrence in Tennessee. Even on a roof with fungus resistant shingles, the fungus protection applied by the manufacturers of the shingles can begin to fail as soon as 2-3 years after installation. As the protection fails, staining can appear within six months. In Tennessee’s hot & humid climate, it seems that inevitably a fungus actually begins to grow on your roof shingles; leaving behind these stains that continue to spread across your roof if left untreated. These fungi live abundantly in the soil. Like all fungi, they multiply by microscopic spores which float through the air and after landing on a hospitable surface, germinate. Fungi feed on organic matter such as wood, paper and asphalt, just to mention a few, and in the process, decompose and eventually destroy the material on which they grow.

HOW THIS FUNGUS COULD BE COSTING YOU MONEY

Besides making your home look old and unsightly, researchers looking into this problem have discovered that this fungus could actually be costing you quite a bit of money. If your roof has fungus growth, temperatures under your roof become higher, increasing your monthly air conditioning costs and possibly even shortening the lifespan of your air conditioning unit. Some of these studies have revealed reduction of under-roof temperatures by anywhere from 10 – 20 degrees once the fungus has been eliminated. Some owners have seen utility savings of up to $20-$25 per month. In fact, there is a noticeable difference in your electric bill if the change in your attic temperature reduces the temperature in your living space by just 3-4 degrees. SHORTENED ROOF LIFE AND ALLERGIES.- Compounding the problem, the same studies seem to indicate that the lifespan of your roof is shortened by the increased granule loss from thermal expansions and contractions commonly experienced with this problem. This expansion and contraction can cause a weakening around the fastenings of the shingles on your roof. Also, unhealthy fungus spores and mold could conceivably be tracked into your home. For those owners suffering from allergies, this breeding ground on your roof could really cause some suffering.

THAT UGLY BLACK FUNGUS ON YOUR ROOF IS STEALING YOUR MONEY!

• Higher Under-Roof Temperatures increase air conditioning costs.
• Heavier Air Conditioner Use shortens your air conditioner’s life.
• Unsightly Appearance has a negative affect on property values in your neighborhood.
• Shortened Roof Life because of shingle rot and granule breakdown.
• Unhealthy Fungus Spores and Mold can be tracked into your home!

Service to the following areas

Crossville, Tennessee | Cookeville, Tennessee | Knoxville, Tennessee | Kingston, Tennessee | Rockwood, Tennessee | Farragut, Tennessee | Oak Ridge, Tennessee | Harriman, Tennessee | Monterey, Tennessee | Sparta, Tennessee | Livingston, Tennessee | Dayton, Tennessee | Spring City, Tennessee | Lenior City, Tennessee | Jamestown, Tennessee | Grimsley, Tennessee | Spenser, Tennessee | Pikeville, Tennessee | Cumberland County | Roane County | Loudon County | Anderson County | | Morgan County | Overton County | Putnam County | White County | Van Buren County | Bledsoe County | Rhea County