Remove The Threat Of Gloeocapsa Magma From Your Roof

Chances are you haven't been on your roof in a long time if ever. When you neglect your roof, you are putting your entire home in danger. Your roof is one of the most crucial components of your house and requires proper care in order to protect your home. One of the most common roofs in the United States is an asphalt roof. They will typically last about 20 years if they receive proper care. One of the biggest threats to an asphalt roof is Gloeocapsa Magma. This is an aggressive bacteria that can land on your roof and cause considerable damage if not removed promptly. 

Where Does it Come from?

This dark green or black algae otherwise known as Gloeocapsa Magma is transported by air and animals. What may start out as just a spot on your roof can quickly turn into a large colony of algae. The algae grows much easier in humid climates and can be found most often on the east coast and central United States. Because the algae can hold moisture, it can cause additional growth of moss, mold, and lichen. 

What Kind of Damage Can it Do?

The Gloeocapsa Magma is known to do quite a bit of damage both visibly and physically to your roof and home. If you have been contemplating on putting your home up for sale, the appearance of the algae can really put a damper on your resell value. Even if you are not planning on selling your home, it can easily harm your curb appeal. Additionally, the algae can also weaken your asphalt shingles causing them to become much more fragile. The algae is known to absorb heat causing the roof to crack. Soon enough, you could find yourself tending to leaks in your roof. If your insurance company knows that you were aware of the algae and chose not to act, they could end up canceling your policy due to negligence. 

How Do You Remove the Algae?

The best way to combat the destructive algae is to find it first arrives on your roof. An annual inspection can help you identify when algae is present on your roof. Once you have identified the bacteria, you can then take measures to clean it off. This can be done most effectively through pressure washing. Pressure washing should only be done by a professional, such as Ben's Cleaner Sales, in order to prevent damage to the shingles. Some professionals may recommend a soft wash method using a lower pressure application. Special chemicals are sprayed on the roof to help remove the algae and prevent further algae from appearing.