Roofing Repairs in Naperville IL can include the removal of algae and moss that are marring the appearance of the home and may be increasing the risk of rot. Algae growth usually shows up as dark vertical streaks, while moss develops in small, thick patches of greenery. The contractor also can install features that prevent these substances from accumulating on shingles in the future.
The Problem With Moss
People often think of dark algae streaks as ugly but may consider mossy growth to make the place look like a northern cabin or English cottage. Moss, however, should be removed promptly because it can shorten the lifespan of the roof. It grows under the edge of the shingle as well as on top, which gradually raises the shingle from the roof. That can pose a risk for water leaking under the affected shingles and into the house, and for the wood underneath to start rotting.
Applying Spray Solutions
When doing this type of Roofing Repairs in Naperville IL, contractors typically spray a solution containing vinegar or chlorine bleach blended with water onto the plant growth to kill it, after which it will gradually disintegrate and fall off or blow away. They avoid using power washers since that equipment is hard on asphalt shingles and can dislodge the protective granules. Full-strength bleach may not be suitable for very dark shingles as it could lighten them, but contractors dilute the product with water.
Decreasing Shade
Excessive shade is friendly to algae and moss, so the property owners might consider having trees trimmed back to allow more sunshine on the roof. This isn’t always desirable, of course, and sometimes the trees belong to a neighbor.
Adding Metal Strips
To prevent the problem in the future, roofers from a company such as Exterior Designers Inc. usually install strips of galvanized steel along the upper edges of the roof. The zinc coating releases ions when the roof gets wet, and those ions kill algae and moss. They never are able to gain a hold on the shingles again. Copper works too, but it costs significantly more. Visit our website today.
