If you have just installed a new shingled roof, it is critical to observe proper maintenance if you want it to maintain kerb appeal and last for decades without requiring repairs. One of the things that you should be watchful for is the appearance of black unsightly marks on your roof's surface. These marks are usually an indication that black algae is growing on your roof. If you don't take the right measures to prevent algae growth, the roof will lose its aesthetic appeal and deteriorate in performance. This article will look into three effective steps that you can follow to prevent algae growth and keep the unpleasant black marks away from your roof.

Keep debris away from the roof

Trees are great landscaping features that provide shade during the summer and give your outdoor area a natural appearance. However, if their branches are overhanging your roof, they could present a potential hazard. As the leaves and small branches fall on the roof, they accumulate over time. As they rot, they create a suitable environment for the growth of black algae.

Prevent this by keeping debris away from the roof's surface. Trim any tree branches that are overhanging the roof and get rid of any leaves that have already fallen on the structure. Doing so will also protect your shingles from premature damage.

Clean the roof regularly

Regular roof cleaning can go a long way in maintaining the beautiful appearance of the structure and protecting the shingles from the black marks. Cleaning gets rid of the algae spores before their full development. To clean the roof, you can use your garden or a pressure washer on a low or medium setting. Use the pressurised water to clean debris from the roof. Then, get a roof cleaning agent, pour it on the surface and use a soft hand broom to clean any remaining debris. Doing this a few times every year will help keep the roof in excellent condition.

Install top tier gutters

If your roof has more than one tier, it would be helpful to add gutters to the top tier. As water hits the top of the roof, it lands directly on the shingles below the top tier, and this causes the water and debris on the top to be washed down to the lower tier of the roof. As a result, spores may start developing on the lower tiers. To avoid this, install gutters on the top tier so that they can divert water from the shingles on the lower tier.

Proper roof maintenance is the key to preserving the curb appeal and performance of your roof. Contact a contractor for questions about re roofing and other maintenance needs.

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