Removing Algae From Slate Roof

Many people try to remove lichen by brushing and scraping it off with abrasive tools.

Removing algae from slate roof.

Replacing the shingles on your roof just because you have black stains is not necessary however and you should be suspicious of any roofer that suggests roof shingle replacement as the only solution to your algae problem. Scrub the slate vigorously to remove the algae. Lichen and green moss growth on a slate roof. Roofing manufacturers have tackled the problem of roof algae by creating shingles containing copper which is deadly to algae.

Roof moss removal usually requires a broom or heavy stream of water. That way whenever it rains some of the metal molecules will wash down the roof and kill any algae trying to regain a foothold on your shingles. Fortunately removing algae from slate is fairly straightforward. Lichen can be a tough growth to remove due to the symbiotic relationship between the fungus and algae.

It does not take the color out of the shingles and it does not hurt the shingles or vegetation or anything else near your home. Step 1 fill a bucket with with warm soapy water. In addition to rotting and possibly damaging your roof organic material is one of the chief growing places of both moss and lichen. The way to clean off roof algae is to go ahead and mix up some oxygen bleach with water.

The upper part of the ladder will lie flat against the. What you do is put it into a pump sprayer spray it on the roof and you need to keep the roof wet. Moss is thick algae is paper thin. Copper strips prevent the growth of moss and algae.

Step 2 use a stiff brush such as a pushbroom to scrape away any stubborn mold or lichen patches still remaining. Moss is a thick organic growth. The best access for most homeowners comes in positioning a long extension ladder from the ground to the roof at the same pitch as the roof. If necessary dip a toothbrush in the soapy water.

Clean up any organic matter on the roof such as twigs leaves or other debris. Algae is just a thin film of organic growth that can be removed by washing the roof with certified organic oxygen bleach. Roof moss removal and algae tips. Step 2 dip a nylon scrub brush in the soapy water.

Roofs generally have a lot of metal in the form of vents gutters drains nails and cables so this can be a plus for most types of roof. Often the damage is hidden under overlapping slate courses and becomes apparent only when the roof starts to leak. Bayer 2 in 1 moss algae s spray nozzle creates a flat stream that is easy to apply. Also slate is slippery when wet.

Use a mild dishwashing soap that does not contain acids such as lemon or lime. Wet forget is a safe roof cleaner that will remove lichen without any scrubbing or scraping. Start at the top of.