While you may believe that you are the only one living in
your house, there may be some microscopic creatures making a home above your
head. Roofs are the perfect place for fungi to live due to the damp and humid
conditions, and leaving these organisms on your roof can have disastrous
consequences. The best thing you can do is keep an eye out, and as soon as you
spot it, you can get it removed to save your roof from further damage. But how
do you know what to watch out for? This blog post will go over the 4 types of
fungi that you might see growing on your roof.
Algae
Algae is a living organism that feeds off the limestone
filler in shingles. Once the spores land on a moist area, they quickly spread
and devour the roof. Algae is black-green in color and it loves to grow on
damp, humid areas like roofs and gutters.
Algae eats away at shingles, taking years off the life of
your roofing; you’ll have to get it replaced sooner rather than later, which
can cost $10,000
or more. Not only that, but algae can also increase your electricity bills.
Since the growth of algae covers the roof, the shingles aren’t able to
effectively block UV rays, thus heating up the interior and forcing your A/C
unit to work overtime. As soon as you notice algae on your roof, you have to
act, as it can cost you thousands of dollars if you don’t get rid of it
immediately.
Moss
Moss is distinguished by its fuzzy texture and vibrant green
color. Some homeowners like the appearance of moss on their roof and keep it
there for aesthetic reasons; however, the quaint forest cottage look comes at a
risk – as moss can be detrimental to your roof.
Moss is attracted to damp, low-sunlit areas and contains
moisture that can seep into shingles, causing roof rot. A rotting roof has poor
structural integrity, leading to a flood of other issues. If you like the look
of moss and know how to properly maintain it, moss can be a great addition to
the roof of your home. But, if you dislike the look, getting it removed is the
best option.
Mold
Mold is the most problematic fungi on this list. Not only is
it ugly, but it can actually cause severe health problems, such as allergies,
asthma, and other respiration issues. This organism is characterized by a slimy
appearance and rancid smell. It can be brown or dark green in color, but black
mold is the most hazardous.
Mold grows on moist wood and drywall, so roofing is the
perfect place for it to grow. Once mold finds a home on your roof, it spreads
fast. A roof leak can cause it to get inside of your home, and then circulate
through the HVAC system. It also eats away at the structural integrity of your
house, and simply the presence of mold decreases the value of your property. If
you notice mold growing anywhere in your home, make sure you contact licensed
professionals right away to remove it.
Mildew
Mildew has a powdery texture and can be light gray, black,
or even pink. It loves warm, wet areas and especially grows on roofs with poor
drainage. Mildew is known for spreading extremely fast, and it can be
incredibly unsafe if you let it grow and fester.
Just like mold, mildew is a serious health hazard. Breathing
it in for prolonged periods of time is dangerous, especially to those with
asthma or other respiratory problems. Not cleaning your roof puts your family’s
health at risk; make sure that you call the professionals right away as soon as
you notice mildew growing on your home.
Conclusion
Algae, moss, mold, and mildew thrive in moist, humid areas.
While there are ways to prevent
them from growing, the absolute best way to stop them from spreading is by getting
your roof cleaned regularly. At Oceanside Pressure Washing and
Roof Cleaning, we offer quick and affordable pressure washing
services to keep your roof fungus-free! With our pressure washing services,
you’ll keep your home clean and your family healthy!