While you might spend much time thinking about your roof, it plays a major role in the curb appeal of your property. When your roof looks great, so does the rest of your home. But, when your roof is littered with debris, streaks, and spots, it can drastically affect your curb appeal. While debris is quickly removed, these streaks and spots may indicate a bigger problem: mold and algae growth.
Mold and algae on your roof pose a serious risk to your curb appeal and the health of your roof, home, and family. Understanding the difference between these two growths is essential for properly treating it. In this blog, we’ll help you determine the difference between these growths to ensure you take appropriate steps to protect your property.
Is There a Difference Between Mold and Algae?
Mold and algae are common organisms but differ in structure, growth conditions, and impact. Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in damp, dark environments, often growing on organic materials like wood, fabric, and drywall. It appears in various colors, including black, green, and white, and can produce allergens and toxins, which can pose health risks.
Algae are simple aquatic plants that rely on photosynthesis. They grow in moist, sunlit areas, such as ponds, roofs, and walls, and are typically green, though some species can be red or brown. While algae rarely pose health concerns, mold can significantly affect indoor air quality. Proper moisture control and cleaning are key to preventing mold and algae growth in homes and outdoor spaces.
Do You Have Mold or Algae on Your Roof?
It isn’t uncommon to experience mold or algae on your roof. But, it is important that you understand what you are dealing with to ensure proper removal. Each requires specific removal to ensure your roof is clean and safe from additional damage.
Signs You Have Mold on Your Roof
If you believe you’re dealing with mold on your roof, there are a few ways you can identify this growth, including:
- Color: While mold appears in various colors, roof mold will generally appear black. This growth often occurs in large patches across the roof.
- Location: Mold thrives in dark, damp settings. When growing on your roof, it is often found in places with very little sun exposure, like in the shade of a tree.
- Smell: Although you may not be able to smell the growth unless you’re on your roof, mold often has a strong, musty odor.
- Texture: While the texture of mold on your roof may vary depending on its type, it often feels slimy and damp.
Signs You Have Algae on Your Roof
If the growth on your roof doesn’t fit any of the characteristics above, you may be dealing with algae on your roof. Some of the most common attributes of algae on your roof include:
- Color: If you are dealing with algae on your roof, it will only ever appear in shades of green, blue-green, or brown.
- Location: Unlike mold, algae on your roof will grow in bright, sunny places, as it requires constant sun exposure for growth.
- Texture: Like mold, algae has a slimy texture. However, algae will come up in long, fibrous strands when you pick it up.
- Moisture: Algae can make it more difficult for roofing materials to dry after moisture exposure. If your roof takes longer to dry after rain, it may be due to algae.
The Risk of Leaving These Growths on Your Roof
Whether you have mold or algae on your roof, it is essential that you remove this growth as soon as possible. Each growth is capable of causing significant damage to your property if improperly treated. The biggest risk of leaving mold on your roof untreated is the potential movement of this growth into your home.
Roof mold may find its way into your attic. As mold spores are introduced to this space, they can multiply rapidly. This mold growth inside your home may lead to increased respiratory problems. The symptoms of mold exposure often include sneezing, skin irritation, watery eyes, and a constant headache.
While mold poses a serious health risk, the risk of leaving algae on your roof is often far more costly. If you have asphalt shingles on your roof, algae can accelerate the degradation of these materials, resulting in premature roof replacement. It may also increase moisture retention, which can lead to mold growth.
How to Address These Growths
If you believe you are dealing with mold or algae on your roof, it is essential that you reach out to a trusted roofing professional as soon as possible. They can perform a roof assessment and determine the best course of action to help you protect your roof from any additional damage. While you may be tempted to attempt the removal and repairs on your own, it is best to rely on the professionals for this service. They can ensure complete removal and offer advice to help you prevent regrowth.
Your Expert Roofing Partner in Northern Utah
If you are looking for a roofing company to help you address mold or algae on your roof in the Northern Utah area, turn to our team at Lifetime Roofing for support. For years, our team has helped homeowners across Salt Lake City, Layton, and Park City protect their roofs from damage, and we’re confident that we can do the same for you. In addition to protecting your roof from damage, our team can provide maintenance services, addressing potential problems before they lead to costly repairs.
When you’re ready to schedule a maintenance appointment with our team or have any questions about our services, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
