Why Does The Your Local Roofer In Kansas City Clean Their Roofs?

When the siding or exterior of your home gets dirty or grimy, it makes sense to clean it.  The same applies to your roof.  A great way to proactively avoid emergency roof repair in Kansas City is to clean your roof regularly.  Residential roofing contractors in Kansas City will all tell you how important it is to clean your roof.  Not only can dirt ruin your home’s curb appeal, but it can actually damage your roof, which will then require unwanted roof repair in Kansas City.  Why Does The Your Local Roofer In Kansas City Clean Their Roofs?

More Than Just Dirt

 

Your roof is constantly exposed to weather and elements, every day, all year.  Dirt and debris will collect on your roof, which can cause mold and mildew.  Don’t let your new roof in Kansas City become an old roof so quickly.  Make sure you maintain your roof correctly by cleaning it throughout the year.  Natural rainfall is typically enough to wash off the appearance of a lot of dirt, but dark stains and green areas will need more elbow grease.  Remember to look out for:

 

• Algae
• Fungus
• Moss

 

Algae

 

Your premium Kansas City roofing contractor has come up against algae more than once and will be able to help guide you through the process of resolving the issue. It’s important to follow our ladder safety tips if doing this by yourself.  Black stains called by algae are called Gloeocapsa Magma (GM).  GM algae is a bacterium that feeds off of both asphalt and limestone, making your roof a cozy place for it to live.  Your trusted Kansas City roofing company will explain that moist, cool, or shaded areas of your roof are great places for GM to hide.  GM can quickly spread from rooftop to rooftop through the means of wind or animals, so be on the lookout for this dangerous type of roof algae.

 

Lichens

 

Lichens are best described as a combination of algae and fungus.  These plant-like organisms form a branching growth or roof-like tentacles that penetrate deep into your shingle.  They are looking for oil for nourishment.  They can be tough to remove from a roof, and can likely appear amongst rain and humidity.

 

Moss

 

Unlike the algae and lichens, moss is an actual plant.  Moss has a shallow root system and requires a lot of moisture to survive.  Areas on your roof with less sunlight will dry slower, and remain damp for longer.  These areas are one of the moss’ favorite places to hide.  Overhanging tree branches not only provide more shade for moss to grow but also drop debris onto your roof which is a great food source for moss.  Finding and removing moss is an essential part of maintaining the health and wellness of your roof.