A contractor providing Roofing Services in Des Moines, IA can complete affordable projects that make the home look more attractive and prevent damage to the roof. For instance, certain types of stains and plant growth on the roof can be removed, making the house look more aesthetically appealing. This usually does not require replacing shingles.
About Algae on Roofs
Long black streaks on asphalt shingles are usually caused by algae growth. They can be unsightly and greatly detract from the home’s appearance. Home-owners may notice that those streaks only occur in certain places. These simple plants tend to develop on roofs that are heavily shaded much of the time. Homes situated near water are more susceptible because algae appreciate humidity.
Zinc and Algae
Also, metal features on the roof that contain zinc prevent algae from growing beneath them. The owners of the house may not think that there is any zinc on the roof but galvanized sheet metal is commonly used for vents and flashing. The steel is coated with zinc to protect it from corrosion.
Galvanized steel mounts also support TV antennas and satellite dishes on roofs, explaining why the organisms don’t grow under that equipment. Zinc ions, which are toxic to algae, stream down the shingles when it rains or when the snow melts.
Removing Stains
A contractor was providing Roofing Services in Des Moines, IA eliminates the algae with a blend of water, chlorine bleach, and trisodium phosphate sprayed onto the shingles. Before the work begins, any plants underneath these areas should be covered, or they can be damaged by the harsh cleaning agents. The solution is rinsed away with plain water from a garden hose after 15 minutes. If any stains remain, the roofer may scrub those spots with a brush.
Adding More Metal
Preventing the return of algae is easy. The roofer from a company such as Quality Construction Services Inc. adds strips of zinc or galvanized steel along the top, just below the ridge. The strips must be at least two inches wide to be effective. Copper can be used instead if the homeowners like the look of this metal better, but it does cost more. Click here to learn about this particular contractor.
