Roofs in Florida: The Grime, The Bad, and The Ugly

Whether a lifelong resident or visiting on summer break, it’s easy to see that roofs in Florida get dirty quicker than what you may have seen in Norther states especially. From grimy looking tile and mossy shingles to ugly black streaks. Many homeowners seek roof cleaning services to make it all go away, but what exactly is creating the mess? Let’s explore the why and what’s behind the yuck.

The Grime = Mildew and Mold

Living in one of the country’s most humid and moist locations, roofs in Florida are an entirely welcoming environment for fungi and microbial growth. Generally, starting with spores traveling through the air, mold, and mildew occur in those little dirty pools and puddles of standing water in those nooks and crannies mixed with humid climates.

The Bad = Moss on Florida Roofs

As with mildew and mold, roofs in Florida are prime real estate for mossy growth. It can take less than four years in some areas for a roof to be entirely covered. This is particularly noticeable on roofs shaded most of the day with occasional damp, cooler weather. The lack of sunlight is often the most significant factor in how much moss may grow.

The Ugly = Algae and Lichens

Like a shallow pond or lake with an algae bloom, Florida roofs often have dark spots and ugly streaks. Often mistaken for dirt or mildew, it’s a form of blue-green algae. Unfortunately, by the time it is noticeable, it has grown for at least two months into visible streaks. All types of roofs are prone to algae, but asphalt shingles seem to be the most susceptible to airborne algae spores. Then, if algae meet fungi, it’s an entirely more complicated problem. The two will form lichen growth with the smallest of food sources, which can then ‘root’ itself if left too long and cause irreparable damage.

Preventive Measures for Roof Longevity

While there is no permanent remedy for algae, fungi, or microbial roof growth, preventive and regular cleaning. By keeping these pesky growths under control will lengthen the life of your roof when adequately cleaned. Therefore, it’s always best to hire a professional roof cleaner and pass on doing it yourself.
 From colorful or black streaks, moss, or algae growth, any or all are expected in Florida’s humid environment. If you’ve noticed a growing spot or streak, let us come out for a free roof cleaning quote move toward getting it under control.

Choosing the Best Roof Cleaning Company in Pinellas

Long gone are the days of yellow pages, where reputable businesses were easy to find. In our digital age, we must be vigilant in our search. Locating the best takes several steps, starting with locating professional roof cleaning companies, narrowing them down, obtaining quotes/bidding, and selecting your best option. Here is a rundown of each step with additional information.

Best Resources for Roof Cleaning Companies

There are three primary sources for finding the best roof cleaning company in your area. First, ask your neighbors, family, coworkers, and friends. Use social media to expand your search by posting you are looking for a professional roof cleaner. Those closest to you are most likely to share valid and reliable information on their experiences. Secondly, use Google to search your area using “Roof Cleaning Company,” followed by your city and state names. There are far more reliable good and bad reviews on Google than anywhere else on the internet. With over 246 million unique Google users in the United States, their power in reviews rivals other sites. Businesses cannot buy their way to better reviews, and it is challenging to remove poor or scathing reviews.

Online Directories Are Not What You Think

The past decade has led to several ‘local’ business directories such as Angie’s List and Home Advisor. The unfortunate aspect of a majority of these sites is their dependence on the listing service. Paid subscriptions put businesses higher on the list, while some poor reviews are hidden or removed from view when fought by the poorly reviewed vendor.

Next Steps in Choosing the Best Roof Washer

Once you’ve started reading reviews, be sure to rely on the most recent comments, not the one scathing review from three years ago. Simultaneously, read both good and bad reviews and see if the business responds in a professional, customer-friendly manner. This can further help narrow down your options. If there is no Google listing, check Facebook. Not there either? Well, it may be a good idea to cross them off the list. For starters, Google listings are free and one of the most effortless accounts to set up for business owners. With a list of two or three (or one, if you live in a rural area), take the critical step to verify the business is license and insured. Sometimes this will be on their Google listing, Facebook page, or website. Other times, you may have to ask for proof before obtaining a quote or bid.
 Ready to have your roof cleaned in Madeira Beach, Largo, or Pinellas County? Call or email us today! Hang Loose Pressure Washing provides safe and effective roof washing by licensed & insured professionals.