Roof cleaning

Roof cleaning is the process to remove roof stains including Green Algae and Black Algae "gloeocapsa magma" from roofing materials in areas where high humidity is prevalent.

Roof Cleaning being performed using the soft-wash system

Proper Roof Cleaning of shingles being performed on Fiberglass Shingles.

The black stains are also very likely to harbor a number of molds or fungi. Unlike algae, the fungi on our roofs lacks chlorophyll and are unable to manufacture food from raw materials. The algae must get nutrition from some form of organic matter. To thrive, they also require a warm, humid environment.

Fungi normally begin their life cycle as an airborne spore that settles on roofs. The spores on the northern exposure of the roof stand a better chance of survival because that portion of the roof is the last part to dry after a rain or morning dew. This raises the humidity on the surface of the shingle, thus creating a perfect feeding and breeding ground.

The tar used in roofing is fossilized, dead organic matter and an important food source for fungi. Asphalt, at the granule base, is normally consumed first. Once these granules dislodge, accelerated deterioration of the roof itself will occur. Ceramic granules represent the outer hard shell that protects against hail and other falling debris. Ceramic granules protect against damaging UV radiation and insulate the roof against extreme heat. So you can understand that their dislodgement by the growing fungal colonies can be detrimental to our roofs’ longevity. Surprisingly, the blue-green algae are also food for the fungi.

The Roof Cleaning business began becoming more common when the shingle manufactures changed from all asphalt to fiberglass shingles. The limestone in the fiberglass shingles which is added for weight attracts the bacteria and begins to spread. At times it can take up to 10 years before the Gloeocapsa Magma or "Black Streaks" become present.

If the area of growth is left untreated the stains will spread causing more of an issue. Over time this bacteria will cause the material to possibly decay and result in premature failure.

Roof Cleaner has been cleaning the roof's around West Michigan for many years now, we have taken the black streaks, mold, mildew, moss and lichen off of hundreds of homes in the area and would like to do the same for you.

 

Spring Cleaning

With the temps getting into the 60's and even 70's here for the next 2 weeks it is time to start the spring cleaning.

In West Michigan there is a growing problem with roof stains/mold. This is an area of your home that should also get some spring cleaning done to it. This will not only extend the life of your shingles it will put that "curb" appeal back into your home.

As you are out on your walks or just taking a drive and enjoying our great spring like weather, take a look at the roofs in the neighborhood. I bet you will start to see roofs that are looking like they could use a good spring cleaning. If you know someone who needs a spring cleaning of their roof let them know about us. We appreciate and reward referrals.

If you do not want to mess with the washing of your roof or even the siding on your home, you can always call the professionals at Roof Cleaner. We have cleaned the roofs and siding of hundreds of local homes last year and would like to clean yours this year.

We only use a soft-wash method to clean your roof or your siding. By using our soft-wash system you are assured that there will be no damage done to the shingles or the siding, which can happen if a pressure washer is used to remove stains.

We offer a 2 year guarantee on all our cleaning.

Pressure Washers cause damage.

A pressure washer is a fantastic tool, if you are cleaning heavy equipment. Using a pressure washer to clean your siding or roof is a sure fire way to cause a lot of damage in a hurry. Even with someone who has “experience” with this type of high pressure all it takes it one small wrong move and the damage is done. That is why, here at Great Lakes Roof & Exterior Cleaning we use a SOFT-WASH system that not only does a better job at removing the mold, mildew and dirt, it will not damage the area that needs cleaning.

We are a Certified Master Roof Cleaning company, the only one in Western Michigan. What this means too you the home owner is that our service tech has gone thru rigorous training and knows the correct way to clean your roof & siding.

We use methods that insure the safe and complete cleaning of roof’s and exterior siding of both residential and commercial buildings. We take great care in all surrounding vegetation as to not cause any damage.

When you want your roof or exterior cleaned by the best in the business call:  Great Lakes Roof & Exterior Cleaning, 616-662-0880.