Roof Stain Prevention Advice

A roof stain can cause you considerable stress. If left unattended it gradually develops and extends over a wider surface. Getting rid of the stain is a demanding task once it is extensive. It is a good idea to attend to stains as soon as you notice them. Some common causes of roof stains are dirt, debris, soot, moss, mold, and algae. Stains on the roof detract considerably from the otherwise fine appearance of your home. They also bring down the resale value of a house. However, there are some steps you can take to prevent stains from occurring on your roof.

Zinc or Copper Strips

Strips are an excellent defense against roof stains, especially those caused by black algae. It can be applied on metal roofing, concrete, tiles, fiberglass, wooden roofs, and asphalt.

Obtain long strips of zinc or copper measuring six to eight inches wide. For new roofs, it is best to install the strips at the highest possible point. Slide the strips underneath the topmost shingles. Be sure to allow a leave of inches of the strips exposed to the weather. Rainfall will dissolve small amounts of the metals. As the water flows down the roof, it will consistently poison any algae that may form on the roof.

Algae Resistant Shingles

Roof shingle manufacturers have developed techniques of producing algae resistant shingles. Be sure to specify algae resistant shingles when shopping for roofing material. This is especially important if you live in an area that is prone to roof algae. Colored granules containing copper are placed inside the shingles during manufacturing. Each shingle contains an adequate amount of granules to kill the algae. This algae-killing capacity of the shingles, in most cases, will last for the entire life of the shingle. The copper is gradually released over the life span of the shingle.

Increased Exposure to Sunlight

Frequently wet and shady conditions often encourage development of mildew and mold. These gradually encourage roof stains to develop. If you have tall trees with overhanging branches around your house, it is best to cut off branches. This will help reduce shady and damp conditions. With increased exposure to sunlight, algae, mildew, and mold are less likely to occur.

Roof Cleaning

Clean your roof regularly to clear it of dirt and debris. A pile-up of dirt on the roof encourages stains to develop. It is a good idea to clean your roof as soon as you notice dirt or debris. Use an effective detergent, stiff bristled brush, and hose. The more often you clean your roof, the less likely it is for stains to develop.

Roof Shield

You can shield your roof from stain prevention using an appropriate formula. Several roof shield formulas can be found on the market. They are easy to use and work effectively as a stain prevention technique. It is important that you first clean your roof well before using a roof shield. This will give you better results. Use a hose to spray the clean roof with a good roof shield. No rinsing is required once sprayed. For best results, use a roof shield twice a year.