What Are Those Black Stains On Your Roof ?


Black Stains and streaks on your roof are a form of algae commonly known as Gloeocapsa Magma. Once attached to the roof, this fungus feeds on the dead organic matter of the asphalt shingle or tile. As the fungus breaks down the asphalt shingle, the ceramic granules protecting the surface of the shingle are loosened and begin to fall off. This causes the roof to deteriorate prematurely and diminishes the roof’s abilities to reflect heat rays. If not treated, the Black Stains will reduce the life of your roof, diminish your home’s curb appeal and increase your home cooling expenses. Black Stained roofs are unsightly and make homes look prematurely old. This appearance can reduce property values, which should be a concern to anyone wanting to sell a home. Tile and asphalt shingle roofs are restored to their natural color with the use of our custom blend of chemicals. Our roof cleaning system is deep yet gentle to the roof surface and guaranteed safe not to harm the integrity of the roof.  The roof cleaning system is required for removing the resin of the dead algae, and is followed by our treatment.

Contributing Factors



Black Stains requires three things to grow: heat, moisture, and a nutrient. Nutrients can be found within the shingle themselves while other variables contribute to and hasten fungus growth. The north side of the roof is usually first to exhibit staining here in the Tampa area because moisture is there longer. Add to that, the type, grade and manufacturer of the shingle, the age of the roof, the close proximity of trees, pool, or lake, how hot and humid the weather is here in the Tampa area, and if there are any leaves accumulating on the roof. Now you have most of the answers to the question why your roof has black streaks.

Apple Roof Cleaning Tampa 813-655-8777 does it safely!
Roof Cleaning Training

A big misconception is that the only way to clean a black stained roof is to use high pressure. This is the worst way to clean any type of roof. This can cause damage to the asphalt shingle or tile.  High pressure removes the ceramic granules from the asphalt shingles and damages clay tile.

Apple Roof Cleaning Tampa does it differently!

Our roof cleaning company is in compliance with the Asphalt Roofing manufacture guidelines. Our first step is to give you a thorough detailed roof inspection.  We then apply a custom blend of chemicals specifically made by our company. We also have a custom blend of chemicals designed for clay tile roofs.  Standard Cleaning of gutters, chimneys and facia of the roof edges are included to insure the finished appeal and longevity to your roof at no extra charge for the consumer. 

Ways To Save Your Money!
Those ugly BLACK STAINS  on your roof are STEALING YOUR MONEY !
HIGHER UNDER ROOF TEMPERATURES – Increase air conditioning cost.
HEAVIER AIR CONDITIONER USE – Shortens your air conditioners life.
UNSIGHTLY APPEARNCE – Decreases property value of the home possibly by thousands of dollars! Avoid the wrath of your homeowners association.
SHORTENED ROOF LIFE – Because of the increased granule loss from thermal expansions/contractions.


UNHEALTHY FUNGUS SPORES AND MOLD – Can be tracked into your home; especially unhealthy for those suffering from colds and allergies.

SAVE YOUR MONEY!
Preserve your investment with work performed by experienced, trained technicians who adhere to standards of quality and customer satisfaction. All jobs completed in a first-class professional on time, workmanlike manner, priced as quoted.

Guaranteed safe not to harm the integrity of the roof.
REDUCED UNDER-ROOF TEMPERATURES
Reduction as much as 31%
LESS AIR CONDITIONING RUN TIMES
It’s our goal to save you money by cutting back A/C running time as much as possible.
SAFER AND CLEANER LIVING AREAS
No more unhealthy fungus spores and mold tracked into your home
EXTEND THE LIFE OF YOUR ROOF!
If you do nothing about the Black Stains, your 25-year roof will most likely last less than 15 years and your home will remain an unhealthy eyesore or expense of roof replacement. It is our experience that most roofs under 10-15 years can be cleaned of all Black Stains, and will look like new again!

If you want a free estimate to get an exact roof cleaning cost, simply call Apple Roof Cleaning Tampa 813-655-8777. We can give you an immediate no obligation roof cleaning cost analysis, all by telephone!

CHEMICALLY CLEANING BARREL TILE ROOF IN TAMPA FLORIDA

Here is A barrel tile roof cleaning job near Tampa Florida that we did last week. This luxury custom built home is 14,000 sq feet, including the 5 car garage, and the owner of this beautiful property is a repeat customer. This one had those wide barrel tiles that are quite common on luxury homes here in Tampa.  This tile roof also had a lot of Copper designer accents on it, so we had to clean slowly, and be sure not to get any of the barrel tile roof cleaning solution on the Copper Accents

 

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   or it could have stripped the Patina. Our customer is a car collector, and had several old and rare muscle cars in the garage. He had a Hemi Cuda as well as a 1976 Trans Am 455 4 speed car that was black and gold, with the big Firebird Emblem on the hood. He is also a Tampa Bay Buccaneer Fan, so we talked plenty of football and hot rods, once we got done cleaning his roof. He told me that several Tampa Bay Buccaneer’s live close to him, in his exclusive subdivision. It feels good when one of our past roof cleaning customers hires us again. We have been doing what we do here in the Tampa area nearly 22 years, and nearly 1/2 of our current business is from customers we have serviced in the past. Though we apply a special roof treatment chemical so our roofs stay clean longer, it is important to kill the Black Algae that is growing on your roof will eventually grow back. The heat and high humidity here in the Tampa Florida area will make certain of that. Our customers home was also right on a freshwater lake, and anytime you have a home on a body of Freshwater, the ambient humidity in the area is also higher, causing accelerated regrowth of this Black Roof Algae. Our goal is to prevent the regrowth of this plant, for as long as our current technology permits. Call us at 813-655-8777 for a free estimate and consultation on all your barrel tile roof cleaning needs. We will answer any and all questions you might have about what is the best way to clean your roof, as well as provide an immediate estimate on what it will cost.  

SAVE MONEY ON ROOF CLEANING !

The discoloration you see on this Tampa Florida area roof, in the before we cleaned it picture, is caused by Algae growth.
This algae growth could have been prevented, and the cleaning of this barrel tile roof would not have been needed !

Just as you spray the yard to control weeds, we can spray your roof once a year to prevent algae growth, and keep it clean.

Save Money – Call (813) 655-8777 BEFORE your roof gets dirty !

If you live in a deed restricted community, a dirty roof will bring a nasty letter from your Tampa Homeowners Association.
If they see a dirty roof, it can bring about a full blown inspection of your property !
Do you really want the Homeowners Association snooping around your home ?
God only know what other violations they will find !
This is how HOA’S “Punish ” you for breaking the rules.

Save Money, and take away their power over you.
It cost far less to keep your roof from getting dirty in the first place.
Call us BEFORE the black algae takes over your roof.

Apple Roof Cleaning Tampa offers an inexpensive (compared to full roof cleaning) once a year Algaecide application.
This will keep the Black Algae off of your roof indefinitely, and save you money .
Plus you get the respect of your neighbors and the Homeowners Association, for keeping your place up.
As well as longer roof life, and lower air conditioning bills.
Remember, this is a plant on your roof that can and will spread to the neighbors property, as well as your driveway, house, and pool deck!

You wouldn’t let weeds grow uncontrolled in your yard, so why let Black Algae growth run rampant on your roof ?
It looks terrible, causes premature granule loss, makes the A/C work harder, and can spread via airborne spores to the neighbors clean roof !

Plus it can bring that dreaded clean your roof or else letter and a full blown home inspection from the Homeowners Association, as well as dirty looks from neighbors for being the eyesore of the neighborhood.

Call us at 813-655-8777 for your free estimate by phone. All we need to know is the size of your home, and what roof type it is, shingle, tile, or metal.

All About Roof Cleaning in Tampa

Here is a great roof mold article by a retired university profesor who lives in a deed restricted Florida Community.

I do not agree with some of it, but there is some great information on what is growing on peoples roofs here in the Tampa Florida area.

He talks about Zinc Strips preventing the re growth of Algae on roofs, but they don’t work very well here in the Tampa Florida area, unless they are installed every 3 to 4 feet on the roof, and then they become pretty unsightly. I also don’t agree with his statements about using bleach based chemicals to clean a roof with.

Apple Roof Cleaning has cleaned over 25,000 shingle and tile roofs in the 20+ years we have been in business. Yes, we have damaged some plants, despite our best efforts to protect them, but never have we damaged any roof by our cleaning process.

Apple Roof Cleaning Tampa is a Master Certified Roof Cleaning Instructor at the Roof Cleaning Institute Of America

RCIA Certified Roof Cleaning Company !

We have to keep up on all the latest in roof restoration thought.

Still think roof cleaning in tampa is just a cosmetic issue ?

You might want to read this article, and re think your position on roof cleaning ?

ALL ABOUT ROOF CLEANING

by Dr. Victor H. Morgenroth

Dr. Morgenroth is a Keys Gate resident who is a semi-retired, adjunct professor of neurology at UM. He was a principal administrator in the Environment Health and Safety Division of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) for 20 years; prior to that I was a Group Leader in the Toxicology Division at the Center for Food Safety and Nutrition in the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Previously, he was on the faculty of several medical schools in neurology, pharmacology and psychiatry.

Having your roof cleaned actually makes sense. I know most of us were slightly put out by receiving a roof cleaning notice from the Keys Gate Management Association. Although it read a little like an ultimatum and you probably wondered who the inspector of your roof was and what their qualifications were, it turns out that roof cleaning is not a bad idea at all. Check out the pressure washer review here using which you can clean your roof and various other places around the house by your own.

It isn’t just aesthetics. While people like to say that dirty roofs lower a property’s value and may make it hard to sell, and according to professionals the “dirt” on a roof actually shortens its life span and can even present a health hazard. Furthermore, the “dark stains” on a roof act as a sponge to absorb the sun’s heat, which causes a rise in the temperature inside a home or building, creating higher air conditioning bills, that’s why we usually recommend getting a Spanish Tile Roofing on your home since it’s easier to clean.

The dirt isn’t just dust – It’s alive. Some of the black or very dark roof stains are caused by a resilient type of algae, Gloeocapsa magma (a type of blue-green algae commonly found in climates with warm, humid summers). The algae grow in standing water, as well as in our lakes and ponds. The algal spores are carried to our roofs from the water sources by the wind and birds, and then from roof to roof where it grows and feeds on the limestone filler in asphalt shingles and the real dirt on tile roofs maybe in some cases the tiles themselves. Worse still, as the algae grow, they retain water and foster the growth of other roof inhabitants.

The black stains are also very likely to harbor a number of molds or fungi. Unlike algae the fungi on our roofs lacks chlorophyll. They are unable to manufacture food from raw materials. So, it must get nutrition from some form of organic matter. To thrive, these heterotrophs, who used to be called saprophytes, also require a warm, humid environment.

Fungi normally begin their life cycle as an airborne spore that settles on roofs, especially the asphalt-shingle ones. The spores on the northern exposure of the roof stand a better chance of survival because that portion of the roof is the last part to dry after a rain or morning dew. This raises the humidity on the surface of the shingle, thus creating a perfect feeding and breeding ground.

The tar used in roofing is fossilized, dead organic matter — and an important food source for fungi. Asphalt, at the granule base, is normally consumed first. Once these granules dislodge, accelerated deterioration will occur. Ceramic granules represent the outer hard shell that protects against hail and other falling debris. Ceramic granules protect against damaging UV radiation and insulate the roof against extreme heat. So you can understand that their dislodgement by the growing fungal colonies can be detrimental to our roofs’ longevity. Surprisingly, the blue-green algae are also food for the fungi.

While not all mold (fungi) and algae pose a health danger, some are harmful, especially for us older folks, younger children and people who suffer from asthma and respiratory problems. Their spores, which are on your roof, can get inside your home because they end up on the driveway and walkways from rain, and are easily tracked inside. They can even be drawn into our air conditioning systems and eventually populate our ducts.

Different mold species can have varying health effects, but it is important to remember that any excessive mold growth needs to be taken care of, regardless of the species. Any excessive mold growth can lead to increased allergies, toxicity, and house/building structural problems.

For those interested, this box describes some of the most common fungi likely to be found on our roofs and their possible health effects. While “sick building syndrome” has been talked about frequently in the media, it isn’t always reported that this syndrome is often caused by faulty or leaking roof assemblies that result in fungal infestations. It isn’t, as reported, always due to chemicals in carpeting.

Don’t Panic!

Most of us have immune systems that are fully capable of resisting the effects of fungi described below. As a result it would be highly unlikely for any of us to suffer any of the ill effects described. But if fungal colonies are allowed to persist and multiply then the high concentrations of the molds and their volatile organic chemical metabolites might be sufficient to increase the risks from our exposure to them.

Stachybotrys chartarum (atra) molds can thrive on water damaged, cellulose-rich material in buildings such as sheet rock, paper, ceiling tiles, insulation backing, wallpaper, etc. In the majority of cases where Stachybotrys is found indoors, water damage has gone unnoticed or ignored since it requires extended periods of time with increased levels of moisture for growth to occur. Stachybotrys is usually black and slimy in appearance. Events of water intrusion that are not addressed quickly tends to support the growth of more xerophilic fungi such as Pencillium and Aspergillus.

Stachybotrys is another fungi that has the ability to produce mycotoxins, ones that are toxic and can be immunosuppressive. Exposure to these mycotoxins can result through inhalation, ingestion, and dermal exposure. Symptoms of exposure include dermatitis, cough, rhinitis, nose bleeds, cold and flu-like symptoms, headache, general malaise, and fever.

The Cladosporium genera of mold are pigmented dark green to black in the front, and black on the reverse with a velvety to powdery texture. One of the most commonly isolated from indoor and outdoor air, Cladosporium spp. are found on decaying plants, woody plants, food, straw, soil, paint, textiles, and the surface of fiberglass duct liner in the interior of supply ducts.

There are over 30 species in the Cladosporium genus. The most common are C. elatum, C. herbarum, C. sphaerospermum, and C. cladosporioides. These fungi are the causative agents of skin lesions, keratitis, nail fungus, sinusitis, asthma, and pulmonary infections. Acute symptoms of exposure to Cladosporium are edema and bronchiospasm, and chronic exposure may lead to pulmonary emphysema.

Aspergillus is the most common genus of fungi in our environment (it especially likes to grow on corn plants) with more than 160 different species of mold. Sixteen of these species have been documented as causing human disease. Aspergillosis is now the 2nd most common fungal infection requiring hospitalization in the United States.

Aspergillus fumigatus. The most encountered species causing infection. It is seen abundantly in decomposing organic material, such as self-heating compost piles, since it readily grows at temperatures up to 55 C. People who handle contaminated material often develop hypersensitivity to the spores of Aspergillus and may suffer severe allergic reactions upon exposure.

Aspergillus flavus. The 2nd most encountered fungi in cases of Aspergillus infection. It is also known to produce the mycotoxin aflatoxin, one of the most potent carcinogens known to man. In the 1960s, 100,000 turkey poults in Great Britain died from ingesting contaminated feed. Most countries have established levels for aflatoxin in food. However, the risks associated with airborne exposure are not adequately studied and no exposure standards exist.

Aspergillus niger. The 3rd most common Aspergillus fungi associated with disease and the most common of any Aspergillus species in nature due to its ability to grow on a wide variety of substrates. This species may cause a “fungal ball”, which is a condition where the fungus actively proliferates in the human lung, forming a ball. It does so without invading the lung tissue.

Fusarium spp.,common soil fungus and inhabitant on a wide array of plants, this fungi is often found in humidifiers and has been isolated from water-damaged carpets and a variety of other building materials. Human exposure may occur through ingestion of contaminated grains and possibly through the inhalation of spores. Fusarium spp. is frequently involved with eye, skin, and nail infections.

Several species can produce the trichothecene toxins which target the circulatory, alimentary, skin, and nervous systems. Vomitoxin is one such tricothecene mycotoxin that has been associated with outbreaks of acute gastrointestinal illness in humans. Zearalenone is another mycotoxin produced by Fusarium. It is similar in structure to the female sex hormone estrogen and targets the reproductive organs.

Penicillium fungi are commonly found in soil, food, cellulose, grains, paint, carpet, wallpaper, interior fiberglass duct insulation, and decaying vegetation. Penicillium may cause hypersensitivity pneumonitis, asthma, and allergic alveolitis in susceptible individuals.

The genus Penicillium has several species. The most common ones include Penicillium chrysogenum, Penicillium citrinum, Penicillium janthinellum, Penicillium marneffei, and Penicillium purpurogenum.

These fungi have been isolated from patients with keratitis, ear infections, pneumonia, endocarditis, peritonitis, and urinary tract infections. Penicillium infections are most commonly exhibited in immunosuppressed individuals.

In conclusion, during the digestion of substrates, fungi secrete enzymes into nutrients in order to break down complex compounds into simpler compounds that can be taken up by the fungi and used as nutrition. These digested nutrients produce secondary metabolic byproducts called mycotoxins that are released to give the fungi a competitive edge over other microorganisms and fungi. Unfortunately, mycotoxins can also be toxic to humans causing a variety of responses including cold/flu-like symptoms, sore throats, headaches, nose bleeds, fatigue, diarrhea, dermatitis, and immune suppression. Some mycotoxins may also be carcinogenic and teratogenic. Molds that have been known to potentially produce these toxins are Acremonium, Alternaria, Aspergillus, Chaetomium, Cladosporium, Fusarium, Penicillium, and Stachybotrys.

Even though these molds may potentially produce mycotoxins, they will not do so unless specific environmental conditions exist. Currently, it is unknown exactly what conditions promote the growth of mycotoxin production and more scientific research needs to be conducted on this topic for it to be fully understood.

ROOF CLEANING TAMPA – HUNTERS GREEN

 

Hunters Green is a deed restricted community in New Tampa with a strict Homeowners Association. We have been a Hunters Green recommended Tampa Roof Cleaning Company as long as we can remember. A Hunters Green resident we did a non pressure roof cleaning for almost 10 years ago put us on the Homeowners List. If you received a roof cleaning letter from your HOA, there is no need to fear. We will not ruin your roof with questionable chemicals or Pressure Washing, and the rest of your Tampa home will stay cleaner, because the black algae from your roof is not spreading all over your home and property every time it rains, or the wind blows. Here are just a few Tampa Roof Cleaning Pictures of Hunters Green Homes we have done. Call us at 813-655-8777 to get an idea of what your roof cleaning cost will be.

Why Is My Roof Dirty ?

RCIA Certified Roof Cleaning Company

What you see on your Tampa Roof is not dirt!

The blackness is actually algae we call mildew that lands as a spore, germinates and then grows using the roofing surface as a nutrient base. Green Mildew will always appear initially on the north side of your house and roof in Tampa. This is because moisture stays there longer and mildew needs three things to grow: moisture, heat and some sort of nutrient. The humid, rainy climate here in Tampa Florida is ideal for Green Mildew and Black Algae growth! If you have put of cleaning your roof way to long and it is past the point of return, then consider replacing it by contacting this roofing service.

Other variables besides the direction your house faces are the type, grade and manufacturer of your roofing shingles or tiles, whether you have a pond or swimming pool nearby creating abundant moisture and hot/humid weather here in Tampa. Continuous warm humid weather in Tampa promotes mildew growth. Shade on your roof provided by nearby trees can promote mildew growth due to increased moisture, as well as leaves and pine needles that sit on your asphalt shingle or barrel tile roof for extended periods of time.

filthy tampa tile roof

tampa tile roof after cleaning

tampa shingle roof cleaning using chemical roof cleaning emulsifier technology we pioneered.

Notice how the roof cleaning chemical sticks, for less run off ?

Cleaned Church Shingle Roof In Tampa FL

Why Should I Clean My Dirty Roof ?

Besides being an eyesore, a mildew-covered roof in Tampa can actually be unhealthy to some people with allergies. Over time mildew and black roof algae can breakdown the shingles or tiles and dramatically shorten the life of your roof. A mildew-covered roof also keeps under roof temperatures a lot higher by prevented the reflective capabilities of the shingle granules or tiles from doing their job. These higher temperatures make your air conditioner work a lot harder and increase your electric  bills from Tampa Electric, sometimes as much as several hundred dollars a year. Finally, homeowners associations here in Tampa Florida are becoming more abundant, primarily to maintain and enhance value of the individual homes and neighborhoods. The main reason homeowners want their roofs cleaned in Tampa is to keep them looking clean and new.

Barrel Tile • Asphalt Shingle • Cedar Shake • Slate Tile
  Apple Roof Cleaning of Tampa would like to become your roof and exterior-cleaning specialists. We absolutely guarantee satisfaction, and you will appreciate our experience and professionalism. Call us at
813-655-8777

Will Copper Strips Keep Your Roof Clean ?

Roof cleaning measures such as pressure washing can remove or roughen the surface of the roofing material, reducing the intended productive life of the roof. At best it is a messy, temporary solution which would need to be repeated frequently. This sort of procedure also does nothing to kill the spores that created the Algae and Black Mold.  Plus, Pressure Washing will damage your roof!  will give more details. Look at some of the damage it can cause below.

Copper strips is a natural “solution” to roof moss, algae and mold problems.
We feel Copper Strips perform far better then Zinc Strips do here in the Tampa, Florida area.
When fitted on a clean roof, by experts about whose contact information you can find here, the Copper Strip will HELP, but not totally prevent plant growth on your Florida Roof by exposure to air and water which causes the copper to oxidise, creating Copper Sulphate which runs down the length of your roof in the rain water. Gutter Cleaning helps to minimise unnecessary weight on the roof that can affect its integrity and longevity. 1 OAK Roofing is just what you need.

This is deadly to roof plant spores and will therefore HELP keep your roof free from Algae. This effect is obvious under copper vent pipes or lead flashing’s under chimneys. Mind you, that flat roofs are easier to maintain and keep clean.

Copper Strips —the low cost, natural alternative to repetitive roof cleaning, HELPS put an end to moss, algae and Mold on your Tampa Florida roof. It is also widely used by most Denver commercial roofing companies. If you require any help with the replacement or repairs of your roof, contact us today.

I feel the Copper Strips work, to a degree.
In our opinion, they are “better then NO roof protection”.
Plus, the Copper Strips look FAR better in our opinion, taking on a nice Copper Patina over time.

It is our GOAL here at Apple Roof Cleaning Tampa to make this your LAST roof cleaning.
If you choose to have us clean your roof, we will gladly SHOW you some simple steps you can take to KEEP your Florida Roof clean forever!

Call Apple Roof Cleaning Tampa Florida at 813 655 8777, and make this the LAST time you ever have to clean your Florida Roof!

Call us today for an informative roof cleaning chat, or a free, no-obligation quotation.

Roof Fungus Removal Tampa FL

There’s a Roof Fungus In Tampa!

Say Goodbye to Roof Fungus, Molds, and Black Stains in Tampa!

Apple Roof Cleaning Tampa safely cleans and protects
shingle and tile roofs for proud homeowners!

Certified Roof Cleaners!

  • Why Use Apple Roof Cleaning Tampa 
  • WHY YOUR ROOF SHINGLES AND TILES ARE TURNING BLACK– Remember the first time you looked up at your roof, and noticed those black stains appearing on your shingles or tiles ? Do you remember how you felt when you saw it slowly spreading across the roof ? Your home was fairly new and your roof barely a few years old. How could this be happening, and what was causing it? Well, you weren’t alone in your frustration. It appears that this is quite a common occurrence in Tampa Florida. Even on a roof with fungus resistant shingles, the fungus protection applied by the manufacturers of the shingles can begin to fail as soon as 2-3 years in Tampa, after installation. As the protection fails, staining can appear within six months. In Tampa Florida’s hot & humid climate, it seems that inevitably a fungus actually begins to grow on your roof shingles and tiles, leaving behind these unsightly black stains that continue to spread across your shingle or tile roof if left untreated. These fungi live abundantly in the soil here in Tampa. Like all fungi, they multiply by microscopic spores which float through the air and after landing on a hospitable surface, germinate. Fungi feed on organic matter such as wood, paper and asphalt, just to mention a few, and in the process, decompose and eventually destroy the material on which they grow.
  • Tampa’s Best Roof Cleaners!
  • HOW THIS FUNGUS COULD BE COSTING YOU MONEY.– Besides making your home look old and unsightly, researchers looking into this problem have discovered that this fungus could actually be costing you quite a bit of money. If your roof has fungus growth, temperatures under your roof become higher, increasing your monthly Apple Roof Cleaning feels this increases air conditioning costs and possibly even shortening the lifespan of your air conditioning unit.  Some of these studies have revealed reduction of under-roof temperatures in Tampa by anywhere from 10 – 20 degrees once the fungus has been eliminated. Some homeowners here in the Tampa area have seen utility savings of up to $20-$25 per month. In fact, there is a noticeable difference in your tampa electric bill if the change in you attic temperature reduces the temperature in your living space by just 3-4 degrees. 

    SHORTENED TILE AND SHINGLE ROOF LIFE AND INCREASED ALLERGIES.– Compounding the problem, the same studies seem to indicate that the lifespan of your roof is shortened by the increased granule loss from thermal expansions and contractions commonly experienced with this problem. This expansion and contraction can cause a weakening around the fastenings of the shingles on your roof. Also, unhealthy fungus spores and mold could conceivably be tracked into your home. For those Tampa Homeowners suffering from allergies, this breeding ground on your roof could really cause some suffering. SO, HOW DO YOU GET RID OF THIS FUNGUS? As with most of these types of problems in Tampa, everyone you speak with seems to have a different opinion. Some owners believe that cleaning the roof with a high pressure water hose is the best treatment. While some others believe that a mold removal company should do the job. While it is our understanding that this might temporarily eliminate most of the fungus, enough of the fungus is left behind, actually embedded in the ceramic granules on the shingles, to quickly cause future problems. In addition, high pressure water treatments do seem to damage your shingles over time, causing granule loss and shortening the life of your shingles. Keep in mind, the granules on your shingles are the sources of not only the color of our roof, but also your heat-reflective protection. Granule loss should be avoided. Other owners we spoke with seem to swear by brushing chlorine. The Internet “experts” suggests you to simply apply chlorine to the roof and with a broom, scrub the roof and then simply rinse with an ordinary garden hose. Studies indicate, however, that the use of brushing on your roof can trigger unwanted side effects to your roof, causing shingle deterioration and brittleness, as well as causing damage to the shrubs and sod around your home. THE BEST WAY TO TREAT ROOF FUNGUS. So far, the best way to treat this fungus problem is by using the services of professional companies like Apple Roof Cleaning Tampa, equipped with the right products to eliminate the fungus, applied by trained technicians experienced with these products. Apple Roof Cleaning Tampa will send trained, experienced technicians to your home to apply special, environmentally safe formulas that will not only clean the fungus from your roof once and for all, but also apply a second clear coating that remains on your roof suspended in a bonding agent that prevents future fungus growth. They rinse the treatment with sprayers stronger that a garden hose, but considerably less intense than a high pressure water hose. After your roof has been treated and the fungus totally eliminated, Apple Roof Cleaning Tampa recommends a “lighter” treatment approximately every year. Our company offers an unconditional guarantee that this program, called Guardian Roof  Maintenance will keep your roof fungus and stain free. The cost of the treatments depends on the size of your roof
  • Of the people in Tampa we spoke with, most seem to be extremely satisfied with the results, the fungus has never returned and a number of Tampa owners have, in fact, been experiencing lower utility bills each month of a least $15-$25.That ugly Black Fungus on your roof is stealing your money!
  • Higher Under-Roof Temperatures increase air conditioning costs.
  • Heavier Air Conditioner use shortens your air conditioner’s life.
  • Unsightly Appearance decreases property values in your neighborhood.
  • Shortened Roof Life because of increased granule loss from thermal expansions/contractions.
  • Unhealthy Fungus Spores and Mold can be tracked into your home; especially unhealthy for those suffering from allergies!
  • You’ll have a Beautiful Roof Again!
  • No Damage Chlorine Brushing !
  • Not High Pressure Washing – does not wash the granules from your roof.
  • Reduced Under Roof Temperatures reduction as much as 10 degrees.
  • Less Air Conditioner Run Times – savings as high as $35 per month possible in Tampa.
  • Safer and Cleaner Living Areas – no unhealthy fungus spores and mold tracked into your home.Apple Roof Cleaning Tampa Guarantee: For as long as you continue on our  Guardian Roof Maintenance Program, you have an unconditional and transferable guarantee that your shingle or tile roof will remain free of fungus growth and stains and retain its like-new appearance for the life of the roof.
  • Apple Roof Cleaning of Tampa Florida (813)655-8777 has led the industry in protecting “Asphalt and Fiberglass Shingles” since 1991. It is recognized as the safest, most respected service because it contains no Lye, and totally eliminates the need to ever have your roof pressure cleaned. Roofs that are protected by us stay clean and beautiful all the time, and are proven to last much longer!

    Apple Roof Cleaning Of Tampa’s Guardian Roof Maintenance Program provides an excellent, low cost treatment that kills fungus spores at the microscopic stage and helps extend the life of your roof by bonding the surface! Our “Apple Sauce” is applied yearly, and like a professional lawn care or pest control service, it becomes an integral part of the maintenance of your home. Hundreds of homeowners in Tampa Florida are having their roofs treated and protected successfully with extraordinary results.

     

Roof Cleaning Questions and Answers

Some Asphalt  Shingle or Barrel  Tile  Roof Cleaning Questions and Answers

For more answers to all of your questions, call us from 9 to 9 pm at 813-655-8777

Q: So, what exactly is all the dark streaking and black staining I see on my roof ?

A:  This unsightly shingle or tile  roof discoloration is due in part to a pandemic like spread of the airborne spores and later adult cyanobacteria called Gloeocapsa Magma algae. This particularly hardy strain of roof algae cyanobacteria are particularly attracted to limestone which acts like a fertilizer, allowing this once dormant blue green algae to react like a living roof plaque. This is due in part to a reduction in petroleum additives in the asphalt and fiberglass roofing shingle manufacturing process and the increase of “OTHER” inert, crushed and powdered filler material, used to help control the ever spiraling fuel, energy and oil costs.

Due to rising oil prices as a cost saving measure, powdered, limestone and other filler products were added starting 25-30 years ago (about the same time as the OPEC oil embargo) and since that time, the addition of these petroleum “fillers” have been commonplace according to research we have located on the internet.

These inert “additives” have, in recent years, been acting like a “snack food” or corner “Quickie Mart” for many of these roof eating miniature plants, especially Gloeocapsa Magma.

This unknowing addition of what amounts to “Algae Fertilizer” by roofing material into the manufacturing process has since, in part, produced a ever increasing worldwide roof algae pandemeic

Especifically damaging once the algae root system begins to methodically work it way into the sun drenched roofs in the hot, humid densely populated areas, enhancing the degradation of roofing materials located in the southern regions of the U.S.

If you are a property owner and are reading this, chances are, this ALGAE is up on your roof, as well as on shingle or tile roofs all over your neighborhood.

This very fast moving Gloeocapsa Alage , move thru airborne spores, ROOF hopping, if you will, like the common cold, from roof, to shingle or tile  roof, its shortening the longevity of countless roofing, while creating a neighborhood wide eyesore throughout many owns, and cities nationwide.

20 to 25 years ago many roofs typically lasted the full 20 to 30 year lifespan. Not anymore. With Roof life has been shortened in recent years due to increased roof algae, mold, mildew, moss etc.

Many roofs are being replaced today in Tampa due to a lack of proper cleaning and roof maintenance.

Premature shingle or tile  roof replacement can be avoided with proper maintenence.

According to research, staining and  discoloration account for over 60 percent of re-roofing occurring across the country, much of which is unessaary.

Just like washing and maintaining your car, spraying and clearing off your patio, porch or deck of annual debris, or soft washing the vinyl siding on your home, your roof should be cleaned, maintained and treated periodically to repel algae and other ” shingle or tile roof destroyers” .

Naturally, you would not go very long without brushing your teeth, showering or washing your clothes, and along that same line of common sense thinking, it just makes sense that in order for your roof to perform as it should, and to provide you safe shelter for all your belongings and personal possessions, it too should be cleansed and cleared of leaves, pine needles, debris and roof algae, etc

.

Apple Roof Cleaning Tampa 813-655 -8777 uses non pressure and ultra-low pressure pumps and rinsing equipment combined with specialized cleaning agents to eliminate algae and mildew stains and streaks, along with environmental pollutants and dirt from asphalt shingle and clay and concrete tile roofs—all without the risk of damage associated with using high-pressure methods.

Apple Roof Cleaning Tampa 813-655 -8777 offers a 1 year written unconditional guarantee providing residential and commercial property owners with the piece of mind of knowing that, once their roof is cleaned properly the first time, our maintenance residual treatment program insures an “always clean roof”.

“How your home looks from the curb says a lot about who lives there. As the old saying goes, you never get a second chance to make a first impression.

New Paint or Siding give you some visual curb appeal, and, a freshly mowed, landscaped yard deinitely helps yet both of these home improvement projects combined, pale in comparison to, a freshly cleaned, well maintained, new looking roof.

DID YOU KNOW ?

Since most roofs capture 30 to 60 percent of the visual appearance of most homes, NOTHING stands out quite the same way a new looking roof does. Just like how it is important to hire United PLumbing Heating Air & Electric for remodeling, it is also imperative to hire roof cleaning services.

In fact, now that I have mentioned it, look around your specific neighborhood and visually note how a dirty, filthy looking roof detracts from the appeal of even the most well manicured of homes.

Well, now that you are more aware of the algae, mold and mildew you are in a informed position to do something proactive about it.

Years ago nobody had an answer for what it was occurring up on the roofs, the staining and discoloring to most property owners and cleaning contractors. And back then we had no information, no real solution to the problem. Consider also A commercial bed bug heater truck so you can remove all larva from the attic.

It’s important to understand that an algae, a bacteria, a plant is quietly feeding on the oils that preserve your roof from the suns damaging rays and setting up a permenent residence on your roof due to the limestone in your roof shingles. This “uninvited guest” or pest if you will, is silently ‘snacking” on your roof, also dislodging the ceramic granules that are helping to provide your roof with much needed important UV protection and color.

It like miniature warfare, but thankfully Apple Roof Cleaning Tampa 813-655 -8777 is winning the battle. We know much more than we did years ago and instead of harsh pressure washing there is now, a soft wash, safe, non pressure solution to properly cleaning and maintaining roof surfaces and we offer this to our customers.

Now that you know more, I am sure you will soon be calling us to schedule your reasonably priced roof cleaning very soon.

By allowing Apple Roof Cleaning Tampa 813-655 -8777 the privilege to safely clean your roof using certified non pressure roof cleaning techniques, and proper roof treatment equipment you will add instant curb appeal to your first impression / appearance areas.

Not only will our safe, effective non pressure roof cleaning service transform the aesthetics of your home or business’s asphalt or fiberglass shingle roof, this enhancement will continue to allow your shingle or tile roof the ability to continue to look and perform its very best for its useful lifespan which is Apple Roof Cleaning of Tampa’s 813-655 -8777  top priority.

Don’t just take our word for it, look around and see, while your driving to and from work, while walking your dog, while outdoors traveling to and from your local friends and relatives and I am sure you will agree.

Truth be told, a nice looking residential or commercial property is only complete with a clean, well maintained shingle or tile roof.

A Good Roof Cleaning Article

Here is a really good roof cleaning article that was partially written by our good friend Marcus Raif of Katy Memorial Roof Cleaning in Texas who’s worked as a roofing contractor for a significant amount of time. Marcus is a fellow member of the Roof Cleaning Institute Of America, and is also an RCIA Certified Roof Cleaner.

Think You Need a New Roof? A Cleaning Instead Might Do

Patti Hollingshead thought she needed a new roof.

The Pittsburgh resident’s roof was covered with moss and black streaks.

“It looked terrible,” Hollingshead said. “It looked like it was in poor condition. We had a roofer look at it but got an astronomical estimate. It was tens of thousands of dollars for a new roof.

Over the past two decades, more homeowners across the U.S. have experienced the very same issues with their roofs as Hollingshead. Gloeocapsa magma, a type of bacteria that presents as the black streaks, is the culprit.

“About 15 years ago, in the manufacturing process, (fiberglass) roof manufacturers added limestone in the asphalt shingle mix,” explained Brad Iannacchione from Orezona roofing in Corvallis. “That’s what (the bacteria) enjoys eating.”

Though there’s no demonstrated proof that the bacterium is harmful to roofs, industry experts say it can lead to premature rotting of the shingles if left untreated. Plus, the appearance of those streaks can lower a home’s value if you’re trying to sell it. In an effort to curtail unnecessary roof replacement, some insurance companies are even making it a requirement homeowners have their roofs cleaned, or risk losing their policy. A professional roof cleaning will usually rid those black streaks for five years or longer.

“The biggest reason is aesthetics, as far as making sure your house looks nice again and clean,” Raif said. “(Plus), the black on the roof raises the attic temperatures within the house. It can reduce your electric bills by reducing the heating of your attic by getting rid of the black streaks.”

Both Iannacchione and Marcus Raif of Katy Memorial Services in Katy, Texas, recommend a non-pressurized cleaning as the most effective method for removing the black streaks.

“You’ll blow the granules off an asphalt roof” with pressure washing, Raif said.

 

“The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association recommends you don’t use any pressure whatsoever on the roof.”

The “soft-wash” method using a chlorine-based chemical wash is the best way homeowners should go for a roof cleaning, both experts say.

We don’t use any more pressure than a garden hose to spray our cleaning solution on the roof. “By the time we leave, the roof is 99 percent clean. The other 1 percent will be gone after the first rain. A lot of times, homeowners themselves will get up there with the pressure washer, and frankly, it works. It will take care of those black streaks. Unfortunately, those folks just ruined their roofs, in my opinion, because there are a lot of different granules and little stones on the shingles. I’ve talked to a lot of different roofing manufacturers, and it will actually void the warranty that homeowner has for the roof.”

Before hiring a company to clean, you could try them out yourself or ask about the method the technicians will use. Raif said he’s certified by the Roof Cleaning Institute of America. Check that the company carries liability and workers’ compensation insurance, so you’re protected in the event they cause unforeseen damage or someone gets injured on the job. A roof cleaning for homes can range in price from about $250 to $1,000 or more, depending on the size of the home, pitch of the roof and how dirty it is.

If you do decide to have your roof cleaned, be sure the company protects grass, shrubs and flowers from runoff. Both Raif and Iannacchione said their companies always send two technicians to the job; one who applies the cleaner and one who stands on the ground, constantly saturating the grass and plants with water from a hose.

Hollingshead said she noticed an immediate difference after having her roof cleaned and is glad she didn’t pay to replace it.

“They did an absolutely excellent job,” Hollingshead said. “He came out and did the roof in about five hours. It’s absolutely immaculate. It looks like a new roof. The roof was in good condition, but it didn’t show it. But now that it’s cleaned, it really looks like a brand new roof. It saved us tens of thousands of dollars.” go to this company’s website for more details on roofing.