Roofing Tips/FAQs

What to Know for Your Roofing Project

• Make sure your roof is properly flashed with quality materials
• Know the many different qualities of shingles before you start the project
• Make sure your roof is properly ventilated
• Make sure your roof has a waterproof leak barrier
• Make sure your roof has a waterproof leak barrier

Things to Watch Out For:

• Soiled & stained roofs may breed pollutants, vegetation fungus & algae
• Missing, cracked & curling roofs may cause structural damage & leaks
• Roofing decay may be caused by poor attic ventilation
• Blistering & peeling paint may be caused by moisture & humidity
• Interior ceiling stains may be caused by worn shingles
• High home energy costs may be caused by poor roof insulation

What do the Black Stains on my Roof Mean?

Those are Algae stains. It prominently appears on the lower sections of the roof as dark spot as and dissipate as you get closer to the ridge of the roof.

What is the Cause of the Algae on the Roof?

Algae is prominently spread from one roof to another by spores randomly landing from neighboring infected roofs. The Algae protects itself from UV sunrays by creating the dark colored layer.

How does the algae grow?

Moister in the air is primary of nutrients for Algae, Algae grows in areas with high levels of moister in the air. Additionally, will concentrate in the northern part of a home since it receives the least amount of sunlight. Algae is versatile and adopts well to extreme conditions.

What Not to do?

A common mistake homeowners make is power washing the Algae away. Power washing your roof may damage your granules which lead to premature roof failure.

What Solutions Do I have?

Install Algae Resistant Roof such as GAF-Elk's. These roofs' shingles exhibit algae fighting formulated granules that will keep your house looking new.

What GAF-ELK Shingles Can I use?

GAF-ELK Designer Lifetime Shingles have Stain Guard Protection nationwide (all except Grand Sequoia).