What’s Causing Black Streaks On Your Roof (And How to Get Rid of Them!)

If you’re a homeowner in Cherry Hill, NJ, you may have noticed unsightly black streaks creeping across your roof. These streaks not only diminish your home’s curb appeal but may also lead to long-term damage if left untreated.

Understanding what causes this common issue and how to tackle it is crucial to maintaining the integrity and beauty of your home. This blog will uncover the root cause of black streaks, the potential damage they can bring, and how to safely eliminate them using solutions tailored specifically for Cherry Hill residents.

The Culprit Behind Black Streaks

Contrary to popular belief, those black streaks on your roof aren’t just dirt or grime. The real culprit? Gloeocapsa magma, a type of blue-green algae that thrives in humid environments like Cherry Hill, NJ.

This algae attaches itself to asphalt shingles and feeds on the limestone fillers used in them. Over time, as the algae matures and dies, it leaves behind those telltale black streaks.

Cherry Hill’s humid climate and tree-covered areas provide the perfect conditions for algae to flourish. If your roof is shaded for most of the day, it’s even more susceptible to these unwanted guests.

The Hidden Damage to Your Shingles

While black streaks may seem like just a cosmetic problem, they can actually cause significant damage to your roof. The algae feed on the limestone fillers in asphalt shingles, weakening their structure and reducing their lifespan.

Without proper roof cleaning, this process can lead to premature roof failure, forcing homeowners to face expensive repairs or even a full replacement. Regular maintenance is key to preventing this damage and keeping your roof in top condition.

Environmental Factors in Cherry Hill, NJ

Cherry Hill’s unique environment plays a big role in the prevalence of black streaks on roofs. The humidity in this region creates the ideal breeding ground for algae like Gloeocapsa magma. Additionally, shaded areas with little direct sunlight allow the algae to grow and spread quickly.

Another challenge is the airborne nature of these algae spores. They don’t just stick to your roof; they can easily travel to neighboring homes. This means that even if your roof looks clean right now, you’re always at risk of future contamination.

By being proactive with roof cleaning, Cherry Hill homeowners can protect not only their homes but also the entire neighborhood from this persistent problem.

The Impact on Curb Appeal and Energy Efficiency

Black streaks on your roof don’t just threaten your shingles’ integrity; they drastically reduce your home’s aesthetic appeal. This can negatively affect property value, especially in Cherry Hill’s competitive real estate market.

There’s also a lesser-known impact on energy efficiency. A roof covered with dark algae streaks absorbs more heat than a clean roof, leading to higher energy bills during the hot summer months as your air conditioning works overtime to compensate. Regular roof cleaning not only restores your home’s visual charm but also helps optimize energy efficiency.

How to Get Rid of Black Streaks on Your Roof

When it comes to tackling black streaks, trust the experts at Diamond Roof Cleaning, the go-to choice for homeowners in Cherry Hill, NJ. We’ve earned the trust of homeowners with our proven methods, evidenced by more than 600 five-star reviews, in cleaning all types of roofs—from asphalt shingles to slate, cedar, and even metal surfaces.
Beyond restoring your roof’s appearance, our services extend its lifespan, improve energy efficiency, and enhance your home’s curb appeal.

Take Action Against Black Streaks Today

Black streaks on your roof aren’t just an eyesore; they can lead to costly repairs and inefficient energy consumption. By understanding their cause and addressing them proactively with professional roof cleaning, you can protect your investment and maintain the beauty of your home in Cherry Hill, NJ.

Don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Contact Diamond Roof Cleaning today for a consultation or estimate. With our expert care and top-notch service, we’ll help you say goodbye to black streaks for good!

CLIENT REVIEWS

Pamela Anton
Pamela Anton
a week ago
This is my 4th time using Diamond Roof Cleaning over the last few years to power wash my house. They have been professional and consistent with the level of service each time. They have high level equipment that makes the process fast which I appreciate as I have seen other companies take hours on hours to power wash a home. The owner Mike is very nice and professional and super responsive. I will continue to use them as a yearly service for my home.
Linda Madres
Linda Madres
a week ago
Last year I had this company clean moss, mold and lichen off my roof, and it looks like new again. This year I had them clean out my gutters. Mike squeezed me in earlier than originally planned, online payment system is convenient, I didn't even have to be home. Very responsive and easy to work with.
Susan Bielecki
Susan Bielecki
2 weeks ago
Highly recommend Diamond Roof and gutter cleaning. After pollen season the gutters and roof are covered. The guys came out as scheduled power washed gutters and roof and everything looks great! Very professional and reasonably priced. I’ll be calling them back every year 😊
Maria Oliveti
Maria Oliveti
a week ago
We had our pavers power washed last summer and our gutters cleaned out just this past week. They do a great job and their pricing is very reasonable. Next up is soft washing the house and exterior windows. Very please with their services.
Barbara M
Barbara M
2 months ago
What a wonderful find Diamond Roof Cleaning was for us! We live in a development that has the word "forest" in its name and because of the predominant shade over our house, we are "green" by the time spring rolls around. Mike's crew, two very experienced techs, did a terrific job on our property. They arrived early, worked quickly and efficiently, and left us a sparkling (no lie!) house. I loved that they walked around the house with me and listened to my concerns about my shrubbery, plants, and walkways before they started. I also loved that the guys worked both as a team and as individuals to get the job done. They were very thorough and when they left, except for the wet grass and pavement, you'd hardly know that a major cleanup had taken place. Mike's pricing was very fair and I felt that our payment was money very well-spent. Kudos to Diamond Roof Cleaning for their exceptional service.

Why Choose Diamond Roof Cleaning

Unmatched Service & Technology

From our state of the art cleaning systems, advanced cleaning methods to insure the best and safest results, to our intensive employee training, you can rest assured that with Diamond Roof Cleaning your home is being treated by the best and most reliable pressure washing and exterior cleaning company in Southern New Jersey! But don't take our word for it, our more than 600 5-star reviews speak for themselves!

best-service

There Is Nothing We Can't Clean

Whether your property has vinyl or brick siding. Whether it is a multi-building apartment community or and single family home, the soft washing and pressure washing professionals at Diamond Roof Cleaning can clean almost anything! Amazing results and friendly service and standard with us! We are proud to serve these great communities:

Fully Insured Pressure Washing Service In Southern New Jersey

From Our Blog

The Diamond Standard Of Exterior Cleaning Awaits