As an Arizona homeowner, you take pride in keeping your property in top condition, including your roof. However, you may have noticed unsightly discoloration on your roof's surface. What does roof discoloration mean, and when should you be concerned?
Keep reading to learn about the different causes of roof discoloration and when you need roof repairs.
Types of Roof Discoloration
Algae Growth
One of the most common causes of roof discoloration is algae growth, particularly gloeocapsa magma. This type of algae appears as dark black or green streaks on your roof and thrives in moist, humid environments.
Though this type of algae growth is less common in Arizona than in other parts of the country, it still happens. If your home is north-facing or your roof is heavily shaded by trees, algae staining may occur.
While algae stains are primarily a cosmetic issue, they can retain moisture and contribute to the degradation of roofing materials over time.
Staining
Substances like water, dirt, moss, lichen, or rust can cause staining. It often manifests as streaks or patches of different colors, ranging from black and brown to green and red. It's important to identify the cause of the staining to address it effectively.
For example, rust stains are usually caused by corroded metal roof components, such as flashing or nails. Meanwhile, moss and lichen tend to grow on heavily shaded roofs with excess moisture. Water stains are typically due to standing water or leaks.
Fading
Fading occurs when your roof's color lightens over time due to UV damage (exposure to sunlight) and other environmental factors. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause roofing materials to fade and degrade. Fading can indicate that your roofing materials are degrading and may be more susceptible to wind, rain, and hail damage.
While fading can result from the natural aging process, it may also indicate a problem with your roofing materials, especially if they are fading sooner or faster than they should.
Resolving Roof Discoloration Issues
Algae, Moss, or Lichen Growth
To clean algae from your roof, use a 1:1 water and bleach solution. Gently spray the mixture onto the affected areas and let it sit for around 15-20 minutes. Then, rinse thoroughly with water. Avoid using high-pressure washing, which can damage shingles. Zinc or copper strips can also be installed near the roof’s peak to inhibit future algae growth.
Staining
A mild detergent mixed with water can be applied using a soft-bristle brush to address staining. However, be gentle when attempting to remove staining. Overly aggressive scrubbing can strip away the protective granules on asphalt shingles, leading to premature wear, reduced lifespan, and increased vulnerability to weather damage. For more stubborn stains, a professional cleaning may be required.
Fading
Fading occurs due to prolonged exposure to UV rays and weather elements, gradually breaking down the pigments in your roofing materials. Fading can be minimized by choosing high-quality roofing materials with UV-resistant properties during installation.
If fading has already occurred, the only definitive solution is replacing the faded shingles. If you think the fading may be due to defective roof tiles, check your warranty or call the Lyons Roofing team for professional guidance.
Are you concerned about roof discoloration? Contact us online to discuss how best to address the problem.
