Quick answer: algae! Longer question: What do I do about it?
An aging roof can be easily spotted with the growth of algae. Moisture and sunlight provide an excellent growing surface for an airborne cyanobacteria or “algae.” It’s harmless, but it’s far from pretty. Dark streaks will begin to show up, looking like they are running down the slope of the roof. They are usually more pronounced on the north face of the roof (where the sunlight is indirect).
The good news is that while it is impossible to eliminate these little microbes, you can slow them down significantly. Many modern shingles now include an anti-microbial coating in the asphalt granules, extending that new-house look for years. Look on the shingle package for a “streak-free” or “anti-algae” warranty, which is usually good for 10 years.
If your hair is 90% of your selfie, then your roof is 90% of your curb appeal.
In modern homes, the options for beautification can be staggering. But no other home improvement project will provide you with a greater overall benefit than upgrading your roof.
Enjoy that new house look.
New roofs help your home's resale value.
The 2019 Cost Vs Value Report from Remodeling Magazine shows how much value various home-improvement projects add to a home. For roof replacements, they show an average increase of $14,183 to a home’s sale price. Furthermore, new roofs avoid costly and time-wasting negotiations with a seller as they seek compensation for an aging roof. This means getting to the closing table more quickly.
Which type of shingle looks best for your home?
Broadly speaking, there are two categories of shingles: Builder grade shingles and architectural shingles. Builder grade (also called 3-tab) shingles are exactly that: reliable, affordable, consistent, no frills. Most carry 25-year warranties, and are wind rated up to 60 mph.
Architectural (also called laminated or dimensional) shingles feature a more layered look, calling to mind the shape and texture of wood-shake shingles. Prices for these shingles have fallen in recent years so they are only slightly more than builder grade, while the cost to install them is the same. Their weight and construction affords them a wind-rating of 110 mph or more. For these reasons, homeowners are increasingly opting to upgrade from 3-tab to architectural shingles when the opportunity presents itself.
Older roofs need a physical exam.
As roofs age, not only do they lose their luster, they also grow in their risk of physical damage from severe storms. Sadly, most people don’t know they’ve got storm damage, since it can be hard to see from the ground. Before you pay out of pocket, ask a roofing expert to conduct a thorough inspection to determine if your whole roof qualifies for replacement through your homeowner’s insurance.
