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FAQ's about Algae, Moss,Lichen and the Retrievers system
What causes black streaks on roofs?
Unsightly black stains on roofs are often mistaken for fungus, mildew or dirt, but are actually caused by a type of algae. This common problem has increased during the past 20 years, indiscriminately settling on rooftops from coast to coast.
How do Algae grow?
The primary type of algae found on rooftops are called Gloeocapsa magma, which thrives in humid environments, often appearing first on the north slope of a roof where extra shade and moisture supports it's growth. Algae can derive mineral nutrients from fillers such as calcium carbonate in asphalt shingles. Increased use of moisture attracting calcium carbonate fillers cause asphalt shingles to retain moisture longer, thus promoting algae growth.
Why are algae black?
The organism Gloeocapsa produces a dark pigmented sheath to protect itself from ultra-violet rays. By the time the black streaks are noticeable, the algae usually have been growing cells for months or years.
 How do algae stains spreads?
When environmental conditions are right for algae development, the problem rapidly expands, covering an entire roof. Once algae is present in an area, airborne spores are carried from rooftop to rooftop, infesting the whole neighborhoods. All roof types, including Barrel clay tile, concrete, asphalt and wood shakes.
What are Moss?
Moss is a class of green plants capable of growing on surfaces. Contributing factors for moss growth are excess shade, moisture, and compacted dirt. Moss produces spores that are released in the air to a spot with appropriate conditions and starts to grow again.
 Thanks to Tim Hunter Owner/teacher, Oregon, USA.
What are Lichens?
a Lichen is a symbiosis of two or more organisms living together, thier basic components of partnership are a fungus called 'mycobiont' and algae and/or a cyanobacteria called the 'photobiont'. There are different types, one is called Crutose lichens, as their names implies, form a crust on the surface of a substrate on which they are growing . this crust can be quite thick and granular or actually embedded within the substrate and are very hard to remove.
  Thanks to Caleb John Brown Owner/teacher, Australia.
What methods are available to clean an infested roof if a homeowner isn't ready to replace the roof?
Roof Cleaning is the most commonly used preventive measure against infestation, and repeated cleaning could be very costly, some cleaning methods can even shorten the life of the roof. Excessive scrubbing or power washing that loosens the granules which cause discoloration and lost of protective covering against outside elements. It will also break and damage Barrel Clay or Concrete roof tile. Advance Roof Cleaning Company developed the RETRIEVER'S SYSTEM for SAFE ROOF CLEANING guaranteed satisfaction.
How can a homeowner be sure of the right way to get their Roof Cleaned?
The Retrievers system of roof cleaning is NON PRESSURE WASH at all. We specialized on Safe Roof Cleaning. We know Roofs and we know how to clean them and we back it up with 2 years warranty.
Smart roof Cleaning for smart people!
Advance Roof Cleaning Company
Chino Hills, CA. 91709
Tel.#: 760-473-0012 or 909-342-9298
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Roof Cleaning- FAQ's |