Go Back

Roof Cleaning

Roofs generally have three undesirable growths on them: algae (black streaks), moss, and lichen. The spores and food supplies of these undesirable growths are everywhere in the environment.  When the spores and their food (pollen, dust, etc.) have access to their final ingredient for growth they flourish. Moisture is that final ingredient. Asphalt shingle roofs are typically the most common roofs in which we clean on a regular basis.

Grime Busters Power Washing offers low pressure roof cleaning / roof washing services throughout the Baltimore Metropolitan area. Our low pressure roof cleaning method follows the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association guidelines. Using this technique ensures that your roof shingle warranty is not voided by improper cleaning chemicals or methods.

Optimal conditions for algae, moss and lichen growth can usually be found on the north side of almost any stationary surface, be it your roof, a tree, a brick wall, etc. The north side of surfaces receives less sunlight, and consequently, takes longer to dry than other sides exposed to sunlight. This lingering or enhanced moisture allows the algae, moss or lichen to grow and flourish. Starve the algae, moss, or lichen of moisture and it will not grow. This is why roofs and other stationary objects facing south usually do not have algae, moss or lichen growth.

Gloeocapsa magma is the primary algae found growing on your roof. The map above shows the areas of increased algae growth in the United States. As you can see, Maryland falls in the “serious problem” zone. Fortunately, Grime Busters Power Washing has been safely removing this type of algae from residential roofs for more than 10 years.