Roof Algae – Since Millions of Years ago:

Cyano bacteria has existed on earth for millions of years.
It is a simple micro organism that grows in colonies.
Bacteria spores are carried by wind, birds, squirrels, etc.
These colonies of algae need three things to grow: Heat, moisture, and nutrients.
Typically, they are seen on fences, and close to the ground bricks where nutrients can be found.

A quick history of Roof Shingles

Roof Shingles from 1890 – 1948

Asphalt was soaked onto a mat made from felts containing cotton or wool fibers.

Asphalt Roof Shingles from 1949 – 1978

Roof shingles were made from Cellulose fibers derived from recycled paper or wood chips to make the asphalt shingle mat.

Limestone Core Fiberglass Roof Shingles from 1978 – today

An Inorganic fiberglass mat is coated with asphalt that is then covered with a protective layer of U.V. resistant, colored ceramic granules. Limestone is used as an inexpensive void filler between individual fiberglass mats and also provides resistance to fire and weather.

Limestone – great for algae, bad for shingles

Unfortunately, limestone is a favorite food for “cyano bacteria gloeocapsa magma“.
Prior to 1978, cyano bacteria would starve to death when it landed on your roof – now it thrives on your roof.
As the algae grows, it holds moisture allowing the growth to accelerate.

Roof Algae Solution

Replacing your roof is the fastest way to eliminate the roof algae, but its also the most expensive!
Roof Cleaning has become a necessity in many parts of the country,
and saves thousands of dollars, and wasted landfill space