How Ottawa Roofing Companies Can Help You Deal With Algae This Summer

As you will undoubtedly notice as the weeks go by, more and more homeowners —or roofers they have contracted —will be seen cleaning their roofs while the weather is still warm.

Indeed, what better season to have roofers clean your roof than summer? You get the added benefit of great outdoor weather and a chance to see up-close how your precious roof survived the harsh winter.

Many Ottawa roofing companies are called in as soon as the snow melts, since homeowners notice small discolorations on their asphalt shingles, and worry as to what that might mean for their roof.

This discoloration can simply be dirt or moss, which should be removed in order to maintain your home’s esthetics. However, according to the Canadian Asphalt Shingle Manufacturers’ Association, a new problem has begun surfacing in North America: the appearance of algae known as Gloeocapsa which can seriously harm your shingles and negatively affect the lifespan of your roof.

If you believe your shingles might be affected by these algae, Ottawa roofing companies do not recommend addressing the problem by yourself: indeed, these slippery algae can render your roof a severe hazard for non-professional roofers.
Of course, experienced roofers working for Ottawa roofing companies also always rely on their non-slip specialty footwear, and other safety equipment which follows them everywhere they go!

If your shingles are still in good shape, roofers will suggest spraying your shingles with a product specifically designed to neutralize Gloeocapsa. They will likely not use a pressure-sprayer in this case, as this is known to damage the granules contained on the asphalt shingle.

Roofers have the expertise to balance the need for cleaning your roof with a spray which contains bleach, and preserving the granules on your shingles.

However, if your shingles are ready to be replaced, some Ottawa roofing companies might advise you to consider purchasing asphalt shingles containing copper granules. These granules will protect your shingles against a potential algae problem for the very start.

If you chose to keep your traditional (non-copper granulated) asphalt shingles, you may require your roof to be cleaned by professional roofers every year in order to keep your roof looking clean as the seasons go by.

The black streaks on your roof might not be the dirt or moss you suspect has accumulated over the spring. If you feel your roof is in need of cleaning but think you might be dealing with an algae problem, contact the best roofers in Ottawa for your free estimate today.